India, future of fashion

Renowned British fashion writer and historian Colin McDowell believes Indian fashion can make it big on the world map. The future of fashion, according to him, are India and China.

Renowned British fashion writer and historian Colin McDowell believes Indian fashion can “make it big” on the world map.

McDowell, who flew into Mumbai for the Lakme Fashion Week, said, “It (LFW) has really improved since my last visit (four years ago) in terms of attitude, confidence and spirit.”

The future of fashion, according to him, are India and China. “I feel fashion started in the West but now it has run out of its inspiration to do new and good fashion. It’s about fads and trends now, but no ‘real fashion’. The Orient (China and India) can really make it big. And India has an advantage over China of the language — you guys speak English. India can surf the wave or under it, depending on how much money it’s willing to spend on the fashion industry.”

However, he is quick to point out, “If India wants to be serious in the business of fashion, then there has to be one fashion body and one fashion week. The Delhi-Mumbai divided is only harming their international reputation.”

As far as current trends in the Indian fashion world are concerned, he said, “I am happy at India’s focus on menswear. And I love the way they (designers) do western wear for Indian women. After all, it’s men who spend on the most expensive clothes and gift it to women.”

McDowell, who believes London is the most fashionable city in the world because of its “creative energy”, chose to be diplomatic when asked about the designers or shows he enjoyed the most at the LFW.

“I am a guest here and it’s not fair to select and name a few people,” he said.