Designer Abdul Halder back at Bangalore Fashion Week

A mere 10 years since he launched his label, Abdul Halder has established his eponymous label as a respected fashion brand, in India and internationally.

Along the way, there have been celebratory achievements like showcasing his work at the United Nations headquarters and being awarded by the Australian government for promoting Indian Culture and Tourism. As a designer known for contemporising Indian fashion, Abdul’s oeuvre includes western wear, indian ethnic and wedding ensembles, for both men and women. A regular face at India’s numerous fashion weeks, Abdul is looking forward to the Blenders Pride Bangalore Fashion Week…
 
This is your third time in Bangalore Fashion Week. What’s it about the event that brings you back, again and again?
Bangalore according to me is the fashion capital of India. Bangalore keeps pace with the latest trends and fashion. So what better place to showcase your collection where people understand and appreciate your work?

What do you have in store for us Bangaloreans, this time?
As Bangaloreans are a very hip and stylised lot, I will be showcasing dresses, western wear, evening dresses and formals, as well.

As a veteran of fashion weeks, what is your take on all the various fashion weeks in India? Is Indian fashion coming of age today, in terms of better markets, professionalism, quality of designs and tailoring et al?
The Indian Fashion industry is very different from other fashion industries. Here, it’s not only about the latest international trends but also about the Indian design. India has been known for rich textiles and handicrafts. It’s amazing to see how various fashion weeks bring this art together. Many would not agree to the idea of having various fashion weeks but I believe it’s the right instrument to bring out hidden talent. Yes, Indian fashion industry has come a long way from being revivalists to trend setters. It’s great to see new talent.

There are so many fashion designers who are launched every year. Very few manage to attain stratospheric levels of success. Why?
Being a fashion designer sometimes seems like cakewalk to a few upcoming designers but like any other profession it requires a lot of hard work, time and most importantly patience — something a lot of young designers don’t have.

Do you think people gave you more attention because you’d designed for Michael Jackson? Do you think celebrity clients are necessary for a designer to become famous?
Designing for Michael Jackson, in every way possible, was a huge deal and a wonderful opportunity. I also feel that with time, I have proven myself as well. Celebrity clients, all in all, do leave a mark in some way or the other.

What’s your take on designers doing the costumes for films? Have you said yes to any, yet?
I think showcasing their designs through movies is a good platform for any designer. That way almost everyone sees what your designs are all about. I have been approached by a few film makers but till now there has been nothing exciting enough.

Here’s a hypothetical situation: You’re given unlimited budget to design your collection. What would you design, where would you want to showcase it and who would model your clothes?
Design: Illusionistic
Model: Gisele Bundchen
Place: Some exclusive island