Mumbai big on Japan

Eight Japanese designers make their debut at the Mumbai fashion week this season.

This season, Mumbai’s fashion week is looking to add a little foreign flavour to the mix of designers showcasing. Joining hands with the the Japan Fashion Week (JFW), one of the shows will feature three Japanese designers as part of Tokyoeye — a unique cross-cultural exchange initiative by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) collections to buyers from India and all over the world.

Designers Tamae Hirokawa, Motonari Ono and Sara Arai will make their Indian ramp debuts on March 11. “This is my first time showcasing in India,” says Arai, whose label is called Araisara. “The Japanese government invit-ed designers to send in their designs if they wanted to be part of Tokyoeye and a few were selected.” Contrary to what most might think, the designs are not traditional Japanese, which means no kimonos and obi belts.

Fashion Week

Talking about her line, Arai says, "I am bringing a collection of specially dyed clothes that change colour depending on the light. They will be mostly dresses and shawls, which you can use casually and for parties." Arai also cites designer Rahul Mishra as a kindred soul, saying, "Indian designers have personality and realise the importance of handwork in their garments. I was moved when I met Rahul because his brand has the same idea as Araisara."