Designers Karishma and Kusum Luharuwalla of Faabiiana label, and Nancy Luharuwalla of De-Belle label, have been creating outfits for the modern woman. Their collection is for the women who blend tradition and modernity.
Here’s more from the designers:
‘Comfort is foremost’
My creations are modern yet traditional, says fashion designer Nancy Luharuwalla. The young Surat-based designer adds, “They are for the modern woman who is strong, independent and poised.” Luharuwalla started her label — De-Belle — three years ago and her work is a blend of modern art yet preserving ethnicity of Indian designs. Nancy believes that De-Belle is perfect for those women who embrace their individuality and be happy with the way they are.
Excerpts:
Can you tell us about your collection?
My collection is for the modern Indian woman, who effortlessly blends class with elegance. You will witness a lot of modern silhouettes blended with traditional styles and techniques. Bold and vivid colours like burgundy, dahlia, peach rose and other fall flowers have been combined beautifully with the cuts of the 60s. Each and every creation is complimented with intricate Indian embroidery. It is inspired by the retro-trend of the 1900s which is perfectly blended with modern fabrics and cuts, to create a collection which is appealing, contemporary and has never been seen before.
What are some of the trends we will see and one can follow during the upcoming season?
This autumn-winter, people can experiment with pastels. Flowery silhouettes will be the flavour of the season.
What are some of the common fashion mistakes modern women make?
Aping fashion without understanding one’s personal style and body type is a common mistake made by many. I feel comfort should be the most important factor before buying any outfit. Fashion changes every few months and the trends get repeated every few years. There is nothing, which looks unfashionable if carried properly. One should always stick to their personal style and comfort.
How much has your work evolved since you started off?
I started with making saree borders three years ago, with just one karigar (artisan). Today with the grace of god and my hardwork, we are a team of 40 artisans. Presenting my collection in different cities got us recognition in India and abroad. Today I own a workshop with a team of 70 workers under one roof.
‘Trends change every season’
This mother-daughter duo has been creating fashion for those who love royalty. Karishma and her mother Kusum Luharuwalla launched their label Faabiiana in 2011 to create Indian couture that’s trendy and stylish. Karishma says that Faabiiana signifies timeless elegance. “Faabiiana follows no rules. Our collection epitomises luxury and reflects our passion that we put into each and every garment of ours,” she adds.
Faabiiana, which caters to clients across the globe from India to New Jersey, and London to Dubai, has their flagship store at Jaipur.
Excerpts:
What is the inspiration behind your collection?
Our collection, Desert Rose, brings grandeur, glamour and supreme craftsmanship together with the regal charm of Rajasthani royalty and the magnificence of the land of Begums. The silhouettes are feminine with little romanticism in the collection. We have an eye for art and a creative mindset. Our journeys to different cities and countries influence our creativity and it also reflects in our work. We study different cultures during our travels and also from our surroundings. We are blessed to be surrounded by beautiful sculptures and monuments, palaces, forts etc. Even our streets have beautiful stories to narrate. Actress Dia Mirza will be the showstopper for the brand.
How do you draw a balance between modernity and tradition?
That’s the interesting part of our work. We like to capture the simplicity of the beautiful art and culture set in our age-old tradition and blend it with modern silhouettes for today’s modern woman.
What trends we can look forward to at the fashion week?
Trends are changing every season. The upcoming season will see a lot of wrap jackets with belts, shirt dresses, crop jackets and tops too. Dusty shades of ash rose and blush, slate grey, olive green will dominate the festive and bridal fashion scene.
What has been your biggest learning since you launched your label?
When you start on your own, every day is learning. However, over the years, I have learnt that if you are passionate about something, just focus and keep at it and you will succeed. Hurdles will be there, but don’t get bogged down by them. Keep following your passion.
