Life

International Indian Fashion

Born with a flair for art and expression, she was hidden behind the chholis and dupattas that tradition dictated. She loved Indian work, the intricacy of the designs, the vibrant colours of the dyes and the variety in styles; it was all worth exploring. Today, She has made news with her trendy chandelier earrings, block prints and silk handbags. She is the Indian Fashion Industry.

As the western world greets her, She develops an interest in the delicate yet bold, comfortable yet smart, way of dressing. While the world was turning towards western wear, she was counting and categorising the various styles that came up. From the standard casual, formal and occasional wear, her list had new additions such as party wear, sports wear, clothes for hanging out at the mall, socialising, evening wear, and this excluded the wedding and bridal list that in itself had so many options due to India’s diverse culture. In the mess of figuring out what to wear when, She was losing her individuality. This finally led her to the age of expression.

Like every artist draws his inspiration from his surroundings, She started to explore bits and pieces from the many regions of India. Holding on to the heart of Indian apparel, she pieced it together with western styles. It was time she gave a new label to her works, for the international market started to notice her ethnic yet modern style which enunciated individuality, personality and expression – they loved it.

It didn’t happen overnight, her growth was supported by factors such as the launch of focused business education courses for emerging designers and the establishment of an industry association. Even The Indian School of Business (ISB) launched a program on ‘Business of Fashion: Strategic Brand Management’ in 2005.

Over the years, her labels have achieved international appeal; Michelle Obama sported a green floral silk organza dress by Mumbai-born American designer Naeem Khan to cut the ribbon at the Metropolitan Museum’s new Anna Wintour Costume Centre, actress Lupita Nyong’o wore an understated pearl dress with gold detailing by Indian-American designer Bibhu Mohapatra, Tarun Tahiliani, a well-known name in Indian fashion circle, had designed a stunning orange Kanjeevaram saree for Oprah Winfrey.

An industry which is growing at the rate of 178% every 5 years, is booming in Asia. With the highest population of youth at 764 million, with a rising income and standard of living, eclectic Asian millennials are in search of the fresh, unique and groundbreaking styles.

Rohit Bal has dolled up celebrities like Cindy Crawford, Uma Thurman, Pamela Anderson, Naomi Campbell, tennis sensation Anna Kournikova and Elizabeth Hurley. Shane and Falguni Peacock have draped celebrities like Katy Perry, Fergie, Cheryl Cole, Britney Spears, Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, and rockstar legend Ozzy Osbourne.

The Indian Fashion Industry has unquestionably carved a niche for herself in the international market, charming her way through celebrities, politicians and high net worth individuals. Her unique style and combination of inspirations from the varied cultures of India give her the edge and flair that is unique to her.

As per the reports of the Fashion Design Council of India, the Indian designer market which is currently worth $50 to $60 million will shoot up to $225 million in the next ten years. The Indian fashion industry is growing rapidly and is reaching the top level internationally.

She has walked the ramps of Milan Fashion Week, considered one of the most highly regarded fashion events globally, The United States, which hosts more fashion events than any other country in the world and of course Paris, the fashion capital of the world.

This industry is well supported by private financiers dedicated to promoting emerging designers and hosting regional fashion shows. In Japan, the demand generated by ‘youth culture’ acts as the main driver for the growth of its fashion industry. In Italy, the government has planned to provide financial support to the country’s fashion industry during the economic crisis.

An industry which is growing at the rate of 178% every 5 years, is booming in Asia. With the highest population of youth at 764 million, with a rising income and standard of living, eclectic Asian millennials are in search of the fresh, unique and groundbreaking styles.

She has many achievements to brag about; Rahul Mishra taking the International Woolmark Prize in February for his handwoven off-white and yellow dresses with embroidered lotus and tree motifs, Ritu Kumar successfully running a store in North America and has a book published by Christies known as 'Costumes and Textiles of Royal India', even domestic designers, such as Rina Dhaka, Anamika Khanna, and Manish Arora are gaining international recognition.

There’s a spot light shining over Asia, and She is at the centre of it.