Mumbai-based designer Vikram Phadnis says that the Indian fashion sensibility finds it hard to detach films from fashion.
There’s always some extra excitement among fashionistas when it comes to a fashion show by Vikram Phadnis. The designer not just has the most extravagant clothes that sizzle on the ramp, but his shows almost always have a Bollywood showstopper, which inevitably ends up being one of his favourite clients or friends.
Recently, he had long time friend Fardeen Khan walking the ramp for him in Bangalore, where he showcased his latest collection at the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour.
Quiz him about the fascination for Bollywood stars that’s only growing bigger and he coolly says, “That’s because Bollywood is synonymous with fashion. In India, no matter what you have in the high streets or on the ramps, the masses will end up following trends that are set by their matinee idols. Eventually we are a cinema-crazy nation and it is hard for one to dissociate fashion from films.”
The designer, who has styled many actors — both young and old, is never shy to be associated with film stars and films, unlike some of his uptight peers. “I am based out of Mumbai, which means that most of my clientele is also related to the film industry. It would be foolish to try and cut off from the film industry. After all, the best ambassadors of one’s designs and clothes are actors; when they wear a new designer or something unique, fans sit up and take notice,” says Vikram.
While some of these “Bollywood designers” get stereotyped as being too over-the-top and predictable, Vikram doesn’t let these affect him and ensures his work does the talking for him. He tried to move away from his comfort zone, which is bright colours, and did something different in his latest collection.
“This is the first time that I created a completely subdued variation of my collection. This was especially done keeping the Bangalore show in my mind, because the people here have their own little fashion statements. They are stylish yet subtle in what they decide to be seen in,” says Vikram.
Describing his collection, he says, “It is an amalgamation of soulful heritage combined with true urban influences. It touches the middle ages and revives the Indian traditions.” His collection included lehengas, churidars with long anarkali-like kurtas and saris. Working with limited and subtle hues of black, white, greys and gold, he showcased how these can translate into a breathtaking ensemble. “Eventually, it boils down to how well you know your craft. Even if you are left with limited resources, you can create something magical out of it. I chose to do something along the similar lines, which is also, in a sense, my tribute to the Bangalorean sensibility, which is simply, elegant and very classy,” signs off Vikram, who reiterates how he likes coming back to showcase his creations in this city.
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