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Fashion and Bollywood go hand in hand, or should we say fashion designers and Bollywood!! The brightest stars turned out in all their finery for Bollywood designer Vikram Phadnis' fashions show in Mumbai recently. Dacoits, brides, men in sarongs, and a guest who couldn't stop dancing. Obviously you're wondering what calls for a mix of this sort. Well, to put your curiosity to rest, we're talking about designer Vikram Phadnis' Fall winter fashions show that threw up more than just a few surprises... Phadnis managed a great front row. Not one, not two... but a handful of Bollywood big-wigs showed up for a close inspection of their designer buddy's latest collection.

Of course, getting a fab-a dab turnout comes with a price. The show simply could not start on time because the fans and the paparazzi couldn't get enough of Salman Khan. "I've been in the industry for a very long now and think I have given a lot to the industry and this is the kind of time that the industry gives back to you. Salman is a close friend and apart from that it's he who really encouraged me. I'd never do a show without getting Salman's dates," says designer Vikram Phadnis.

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The superstar, for his part, not only came for the show but chose to be naughty even in his compliments. “ I wear a lot of Vikram Phadnis' clothes for my movies. And Vikram's a great friend and I really like him but I didn't like his clothes in this collection,” says Salman Khan to irritate his designer friend.

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The gathering also included your proverbial "outsiders", not exactly known for their sense of style or dressing. And one such actor present was Govinda, "Yes I don't usually frequent fashion shows. But Vikram is special as, when I shot with Vikram it was the first time that people liked my clothes and actually complimented me on my dresses. Therefore I came to check out his new collection and I think I am going to pick a few clothes."

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The showstopper, really, was Bollywood's "girl" Priyanka Chopra who emerged on the ramp in a blaze of color. Stealing her thunder, but just a little bit, was Salman Khan who made an impromptu appearance on the catwalk by Priyanka's side. "I've walked the ramp after a really long time, it's been about four years now. So yes I was a bit apprehensive and nervous at the same time. But we've done lots of films together, so I owe him that much. And it was fun with Salmaan walking with me," says Priyanka Chopra excitedly.

As for Vikram, his collection was really something to watch. For those with a passion for color and an eye for detail, the collection included bridal wear, sarees, dhoties, kurtas, lehengas in exotic colors! The modern look had designer jeans with stylish tops in the most vibrant colors and cuts. The fall winter collection is very wearable.

Having friends in high places paid off for Vikram Phadnis. Of course, the fact that he designs good clothes makes all the difference.