Sometimes, I wonder how different are the worlds of fashion designers and film stars. Then again, I stop to think. Are they? Whether you are part of the film fraternity or the fashion fraternity or any other professional in a high profile job, it is the same stress and sagas that have to be dealt with.
Favourable film reviews equal positive feedback for the collection. Awards for an actor equal approval for an outfit from a client. Everyone faces the same difficulties — work stress, late, long hours and insecurities… Exactly how the film fraternity gets together for an award function, we designers do too. The most recent example is the couture week in Delhi. We saw styles of all kinds being celebrated there. Organic fabrics, ignored weaves, vintage
zardosi
, traditional clothes internationally styled, subtle shine, cobweb patterns, interesting drapes, many complemented by exquisite jewellery or Swarovski.
From timeless whites to and deeper autumn-winter colours, we saw cuts and styles that are going to dominate the stylish, festive autumn-winter. We saw global influences, too — from Spain to old France to Russia, all set against elaborate sets. We saw models in water in beautiful white garments to designers celebrating their good work for 24 years to even the national anthem playing before the show!
It was all there, celebrating style and the people who made it possible — designers, FDCI and most importantly, the backstage people — take a bow! For every designer, the whole process of presenting a collection is all-consuming. It all begins from the thought of a collection. It then goes on to the mood and look board. Next is the task of actually putting the collection together. Finally, approaches the show. From the music to presentation to look to set design to everything else!
It was all there, celebrating style and the people who made it possible — designers, FDCI and most importantly, the backstage people — take a bow! For every designer, the whole process of presenting a collection is all-consuming. It all begins from the thought of a collection. It then goes on to the mood and look board. Next is the task of actually putting the collection together. Finally, approaches the show. From the music to presentation to look to set design to everything else!
All designers go through all of this, but seldom do we see them actually sitting down together and pouring their hearts out in a friendly fashion. Even if they do discuss it, are they truly honest with each other? Sometimes, I can’t help but think maybe it is best not to be part of the pretentious discussion. Maybe the distance with each other is actually the true honest self. They would, however, always praise other designers, most often a senior in the fashion fraternity.
Just as you may ask an actor today about whose work they like, they would almost always mention Mr. Bachchan, Rekha or Sridevi! Anyway, here’s to Indian fashion coming together to celebrate couture in style and to honour some of the best creative talents... And a special mention to Rohit Bal’s off-site show. Grand and glamorous, just like an international couture week. Oh my god. Am I doing the same thing? I’m praising my senior, too!