‘In India, buying jewellery is a tradition’

Fashion designer Lina Tipnis is known for her collection reflecting Indian art and history. The designer, who has carved a niche in the fashion arena, is set to step up the ladder with showing her luxury jewellery line today at the Lakme Fashion Week.

Talking about her collection, Tipnis says, “It’s called Fantastical Land, as the source of inspiration is the galaxy and our natural resources. The collection is young and quirky. It comprises of short dresses, which are essentially cocktail and clubwear. The colour palette includes midnight blue, ochre, burnt sienna and coal. I have emphasised on the shoulders and trend-setting sleeves varying from peg to cowl. There are hints of our signature style Trompe l’oeil technique in some of the outfits.”

As she readies to don a new hat, that of a jewellery designer, Tipnis says, “I have wanted to do it for long time now. I have always been fascinated by jewellery pieces that have a story to tell. Our handcrafted jewellery line is very Victorian and Art Novo inspired, which is set in white gold with rose cut diamonds and an assortment of semi-precious stones and south sea pearls.

Interestingly, McKay finds his place on the finger this time, on a larger-than-life yellow topaz. Diamond studded cloud earrings, studded guitar etc. are a part of the line. So you can look out for star embellishments trompe l’oeil in Swarovski crystals varying from pristine white to anthracite and cats eye.”

With the gold and silver prices on an all-time high, is it the right time to start a Jewellery line? “Firstly, the line will be targeting the luxury market segment. Also, in India, buying jewellery is a tradition and considered a good investment. Today, the consumer is wiser and knows that jewellery is non-perishable unlike luxury bags, shoes etc. Jewellery can be handed down to the next generation. So I do not think that the prices going up will affect my line,” explains Tipnis.