Cavalli smitten by Indian women's eyes

New Delhi, Dec 7 (IANS) Italian designer Roberto Cavalli's love for sunglasses is well-known, but he wonders why Indian women shy away from eyewear. He says perhaps they don't even need it, given their "beautiful" eyes.

"Correct me if I am wrong, but there are just few Indian girls who are seen with sunglasses. But, I don't mind that because they are blessed with such beautiful eyes that it's not needed to hide them with an accessory," Cavalli said in a jocular tone here Friday.

Dressed in a semi-formal attire, the 72-year-old spoke as he flaunted one of his own designer shades at the launch of his first flagship store in the country at the DLF Emporio mall.

Cavalli announced his foray into the India market through a partnership with start-up firm Infinite Luxury Brands Pvt. Ltd., jointly set up by Indian fashion designer Manav Gangwani, Dubai-based entrepreneur Sahiba Narang and finance expert Rahul Kapoor.

His world-known Cavalli Caffe has also opened shop in the country.

Offering an elegant menu for appetisers, a casual coffee break to after-dinner drinks, the cafe's atmosphere enables its clients to savour different moments throughout their day where the cuisine offers a wide range of traditional Italian products.

The Cavalli Caffe also offers the public an opportunity to buy gifts, such as chocolates and wine.

"Experiencing the enjoyment of a good cup of coffee, with good food and in pleasant company... this is the Cavalli Caffe philosophy. I wanted to transmit all my passion for beauty and sensuality in a hospitality project... I think India will immediately become a big fan of Cavalli Caffe", said the chairman of brand Roberto Cavalli.

He says he plans to open a Roberto Cavalli Boutique and Cavalli Caffe in Mumbai next year.