Wear your soul confidently: Designer Raj Shroff

Wearing outfits that reflect your soul is out of the ordinary and Raj Shroff does exactly this. The fashion designer talks about his sense of inspiration, women that motivate him and the competitive business of fashion...

You cater to fashion for women in different markets; how different are Indian women from western buyers?
In India, there is a tendency to buy a variety of Indian wear even today. Though the buying power is huge, salwar kameez is mostly preferred; while for weddings, the ghagras and saris are the obvious choice. Due to a large customer base preferring Indian wear, it provides for a huge market. However, the younger generation prefers variation and consequently individualistic pieces are moving ahead today. Talking about the international market, NRIs are innumerable today. Though settled abroad, they still prefer Indian clothing for which online boutiques help them buy pieces without having to make a trip for a bulk buy. This surely is a positive development. In addition, for western sensibility, eclectic western wear is designed to suit their taste.

And do you see a difference in the purchasing power of people among different cities in India?
The purchasing power today in general is huge. People have an immense buying power but the differences exist in terms of choice. For instance, Delhi is a capital market with a massive purchasing power and they choose to buy designer wear without paying too much attention to the price. However, Bangalore has a different perspective. Though the purchasing power is huge, I have observed that they will not pay ridiculous amounts for clothing. Thus, differences in perspectives do exist according to culture.

How difficult is it for you, to be a designer?
Challenges are always internal. If there is creativity, challenge is always within. The constant challenge is to create something unique each time but, it is an enjoyable one to work on

From where do all your collections begin? What motivates you all the time?
Clothes keep changing with perspective. I believe in wearing clothes that keep the soul alive. I keep observing life and people around me, which could spark off a collection depending on what catches my eye. As a designer, I deal with women on regular basis, which sharpens my perspective. Depending on the need, I internalise or change the style. I am a practical and grungy designer. Anything could motivate me, even just two ants walking probably.

Are you working on something new?
My new collection is actually named after my label —Ravage. It’s based on the soul of a woman, which is extremely strong and her strength is visible through the highly constructed draping, fabric detailing, and fabric usage. I have predominantly used colours ranging from red to purple for a strong and grungy look. This collection speaks heavily of perception. Strong personalities have a dark side that clamps many secrets and people would want to express suppressed emotions also through clothing. To bring out that mysterious side to a strong personality, it is fulfiling and soul stirring. To me, it is more than fashion; it is a realistic take on life and personalities.