Kashmir – once called “Paradise on Earth” by the great Moghul Emperor Jahangir, Kashmir is proud of its stunning landscape, pristine scenery, and breathtaking views. In the valley below, the sun sets in a burst of rose-pink and amber. The river, that before raged between gorges and the mountains, is now a wide and placid stream. Near Srinagar, the Dal and Nigeen lakes are ringed by the white-capped purple mountains.

We cam see two friends, arriving on horseback, past the fields of yellow mustard, as the road winds its way down from the mountains. They have embarked on a voyage of discovery of Kashmir. They spend some days on the Nigeen Lake, on a traditional wooden houseboat. These intricately carved wooden boats were used by the British during the Raj period, for they spent the summer months in Kasmir, to escape the blistering heat of the plains below.

All around the houseboat, endless sun-dappled waterways, fringed with drooping willows. Along the embankments, ancient wooden houses on stilts, rise abose the water. Old worn bridges ford the rivers and streams, as dozens of temples and mosques’ domes and spires reach for the sky. Here, the two women spend idyllic days, sailing across the lake on a flat-bottomed shikara – the water taxi of Kashmir, with its slim lines and gaily patterned canopy.

And it is here, on the calm and tranquil lake waters, surrounded by the craggy peaks of the snow-covered mountains, that the Lake Collection is born.

This AW23, The Lake Collection introduces the calm, restful pastel colours that mirror life on the still water of the Kashmiri lakes – pale lilac, light blue-grey and subtle pistachio green, with contrasting white silk piping. These silky pyjamas and matching robes are statement pieces – sophisticated yet deceptively simple in design and detail.

Yet Kashmir is also a land of harsh and rugged landscapes, of centuries-old culture of a fiercely independent and artistic people. It is here that the two women ride to their hearts content, at one with Nature. They live for days among the nomadic tribes, share their food and learn to cook their exotic dishes. They talk, they laugh, and they learn about the country’s history and these proud yet hospitable mountain folk.

The sharp outline of valleys and peaks from the perfect backdrop for the mountain photoshoot – this time, the brightly coloured cottons, hand woven pieces and long-lasting IKAT cotton dresses. The setting for this wonderful shoot was a picnic oon the mountain – replete with Persian rugs, embroidered cushions, and generous throws. Flower-filled clay vases and resplendent picnic baskets complete the idyll, reflecting KLEED’S joyful and colour-filled kimonos. The two girld arrive on horseback, eager to spend a glorious afternoon with their new-found Kashmir friends – celebrating friendships, life, and the endless bounty of Mother Nature.

Creative Direction Carolina Guedes Cruz & Art Director Vânia Fernandes