|
 Raghavendra Rathore
Trained in New York, Raghavendra Rathore worked at DKNY and Oscar de la Renta before launching his own label in 1994 under the Rathore Jodhpur brand. Proud of his roots, he divides his time between Rajasthan and the rest of the world. This dashing designer claims that his 1200-year-old family history is the source of his inspiration.
Who is the real Raghavendra Rathore designer, philosopher or history-buff?
Design, to me, is divine. I'm a philosophical person. But not many people know that because they only see me as a fashion designer. I've studied Greek mythology. I am not a party animal. I prefer to do my yoga and spend time with my two children. Perhaps, I am a happy mix of designer, philosophy student and a history buff that doesn't make me sound schizophrenic, does it?
Has the global meltdown spread a pall of gloom on the fashion world?
These days it's considered the 'in-thing' to control spending. Everyone wants to work with cotton. Of course, I like cotton but that's because it is wearable. Perhaps, this is a good time for designers to get innovative. Designers must be unique, even in times of recession.
What peeves you?
People who read fashion magazines and follow trends blindly. To me, this is like speaking French in India. I like (fellow designer) Sabyasaachi (Mukherjee). He draws inspiration from India. He is original. Manish Malhotra and Aki Narula percolate to the masses using Bollywood films as a medium as they design for movie stars.
As a designer, you are...
Real. Fashion, to me, is about paying attention to your personality and tweaking what you are comfortable wearing. I believe in the democratisation of fashion.
Is Bangalore on the fashion map?
Probably the weather here deters people from buying a new line every season. Bangaloreans would rather invest in a house than in an outfit!
 Anamika Khanna
Anamika, who had no formal training in fashion, jumpstarted her career as a designer by winning the Damania Fashion Awards in 1995. A regular at the Lakme India Fashion Week ever since its launch, she is popular for her bold experiments with form and fabric. Her cowl dresses and tunics in red, beige, black and white have wowed the fashion frat and won her a loyal clientele.
How important is it for a designer to talk trends?
On ramps in London, Paris, and New York, designers are talking about drape and volume. Black is the new black. But there are too many trends floating around for comfort! I am happy to design for women who speak their mind and have the ability to carry off whatever they wear. There are scores of women who dress up beautifully and look elegant in any attire. For such women, dressing up is all about expressing their individuality, not blindly copying a trend.
Why should anyone buy an Anamika Khanna creation?
Because it is Indian and contemporary! I use hand embroidery, delicate cutwork, embossed flowers and embellishments on fine cotton, chiffons, satins and georgettes. I have also used zardosi on dress coats. An Anamika Khanna creation is all about being subtle and understated but classy.
Any closet secrets?
Lots of bags and shoes from London! I prefer casual but smart clothes. My wardrobe is full of jeans and comfortable dresses. | 
