The Chennai-based designer talks about frequent fashion weeks, latest in bridal wear and designing for the big screen.
What is your current collection all about?
My latest collection is of bridal-ornate garments. Apart from the heavy lehengas, we are also working on fusion outfits like the anarkali gowns that are getting popular. These outfits have a longer length with lighter fabrics. The upper layer of the outfit has more of embroidery, with a touch of traditional works. We’ve used mixed colour palettes that blend colours like blue, orange, fuchsia, yellow among others. We’ve used embellishments like phulkari motifs and gota work, to give a timeless appeal.
Most want to reuse their bridal ensemble, after their wedding day. Do you think this focuses on light-weight, wedding outfits, which can be reused for other occasions too?
The trend is need-based and specific to different clients. Sometimes, I have clients who want to wear the best possible outfit for their wedding and ask for something that’s heavy and full of grandeur. On the other side, I also get clients who prefer to keep it simple, so that they can re-use the outfit later. It ultimately depends on the client’s preferences.
What’s your take on the number of fashion weeks every city witnesses? Do you think they are justified?
Anything in excess is boring. For instance, when the first coffee magazine was launched, people were keen on reading the copy. But now, we almost have about 50 magazines that talk about the same concept. Banking on the same thing becomes monotonous and uninteresting. The whole point of a fashion week is to get buyers and display your talent to a new market. Sadly, it’s become like an event where there are a lot of socialites and celebrities for their photo opportunity.
You’ve made your mark in the film business, by creating outfits for a couple of films. What’s your take on designing for the industry?
It was time that the Southern film industry incorporated this trend on the big screen. I would give the credit to the younger lot of celebrities who are keen to look their best on. Working for retail and films are two different worlds and the pressure exists in both the industries. However, I don’t want to work for stereotypical commercial films as I prefer working only for a couple of interesting subjects. For instance, styling for a period film like Ayirathil Oruvan was very challenging, as it’s a story about a king and queen. Nevertheless, I would choose retail over films.
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