Moderated by Sujata Assomull Sippy, Fashion Columnist and LFW Advisory Board Member, the panel comprised, Pernia Qureshi, fashion e-commerce entrepreneur, Designer and Stylist, Aashti Bhartia, Oogan and Rahul Mishra, designer.
The moderator commenced the session with a question aimed at Rahul Mishra, about his understanding of the now commercial resurrection of Indian craft as a designer.
He explained that currently designers are waking up to a new understanding of age old Indian craftsmanship, and realizing of individuality as Indians in the world. He continued that knowing that we don’t have to ape the west is slowly bringing designers close to the idea of experimenting with their roots. “It’s important to let fashion evolve with new silhouettes, colours and styles to re-invent timeless art.”
Aashti Bhartia gave an insight into retail of Indian fashion and how one could spread the word. She revealed that it is everyone’s responsibility – designers especially to preserve Indian textile art. Well-known designer Madhu Jain had been curetting Indian work for several years and that younger designers are now following suit in their own way by working with layers and adding other new age garment intricacies.
Pernia Qureshi, a fashion icon and a (online) store owner was asked if she would be interested in Indian wear and what would make her stand up and take notice to which she responded that her store comprised several Indian designers and that she saw a lot of change in the market. It was convenient for women to pick and choose Indian clothes they’re comfortable in, be it for work, lunch or even travel. A young girl wouldn’t want to wear a formal wedding inspired garment; she’d rather have the option of a modernized sari. Highlighting the distinction between Indian and Western garment’s wearability, Pernia said that casual Indian prêt wear is now frequently seen within the market. Classic pieces adorned with an innovative twist using a traditional scarf as a sarong give people a whole new perspective.
Adding to the discussion, Ekta Rajani, Fashion Editor, Grazia spoke from the media point of view noting that although each magazine had its own ‘language’, it was important for people within the industry to expose India to the possibilities of re-invention.
Anamika Khanna, designer, stated that it’s high time we show the world that Indians can dress modern, and should wear our cultural roots with pride.
Another subject the panelists touched upon was the problems designers face with weavers.
Rahul Mishra shared his own experience on designer/weaver relationship, stating that it’s ‘give and take’. It was very important to have an understanding of loyalty and relationships needed to work on mutual respect. The weavers need to earn their bread and that long term contracts could lead to disagreements.
The moderator ended the workshop with a message that ‘Fashion is not entertainment’, it is now an industry, which is growing and culturally Indians have a responsibility to cultivate and innovate the artwork.
