Priyadarshini Rao’s collection for Lakme Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014 was an ode to the colour indigo. The designer talks about the inspiration behind it
Q. You showcased a collection called Ode to Indigo. What made you choose this particular colour?
A. It’s quite amazing how indigo is such a universally-loved colour. I guess that has always been at the back of my mind. I’ve also been travelling in the hills for the summer months and that was where I spotted so many layers to this hue. For instance, the mountains have misty shades of blue and then there are some green indigos as well. That was when I decided that my next collection will be based on these beautiful shades. Also, indigo is a very calm and peaceful colour and generates a feeling of tranquility and quietude when you look at it. My process of designing the collection began as early as May and June. I take at least three months to develop the fabric as we do our own printing, weaving and embroidery.
Designer Priyadarshini Rao
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Q. What materials did you use and describe the designs that you created for this collection.
A. I predominantly use natural fabrics. I’ve worked on Chanderi and Khadi, and at the same time, have used a fair amount of chiffons and georgettes. We’ve created a lot of linear silhouettes, so you will find long tunics mixed with skirts and dresses with overshirts. Layering is a strong trend and the extended third piece is pretty much the focus of the collection. Since it’s festive season, the hems and borders have been encrusted with zardozi embroidery.
Q. You’ve showcased in LFW earlier as well. What kind of exposure does the fashion week bring you?
A. LFW works for a designer like me, mainly because I live and work out of Mumbai, and it’s nice to show my work in my city where I have a lot of clients. We have our flagship store in the city, so having the show here converts into business in a very big way for us.
Q. Wearability has always been the focus of your label. How have your fashion sensibilities evolved over the years?
A. Even wearability can become very boring after a point of time. I’ve been in the business for 18 years now and the whole idea of wearability has evolved through time. There are new parametres of creativity in trying to create something that people find new and yet, are willing to wear it. I think that if a garment makes me feel good about myself, then I go back to that garment or that brand or designer over and over again. That has been my focus while creating products.
Q. What’s next for you after LFW?
A. I’m looking at establishing my store in a very strong manner in the city. There are a number of collaborations with some websites to create affordable prêt. I find that a lot of Indian brands do not have a sense of design. Prêt excites me a lot. I’m looking at putting together a design house where a group of young designers will work with me and create a complete look for a particular brand.
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