Climate change is a stark reality and represents one of the greatest environmental, social and economic threats facing the planet. I feel, as a designer, it’s our responsibility to bring these issues of international relevance across the society” said Puneet Gupta. A bridge between beautiful homes and inspiring home makers, the party witnessed the who’s who of fashion circuit enjoying to their best. Some of the guests seen chatting were Rohit Bal, Shibani Kashyap, Charu Parashar, Thenny, Raghavendra Rathore, Thenny, Nida Mahmood, Ramneek Paintal, Blossom Kochhar, Vijay Arora, Sanjay Kapoor, Varun Bahl, Ashima and Leena and many more.
Shyamal and Bhumika, best known for their India inspired collection, incepted their fashion journey in 2006 with Lakme Fashion Week. They have now successfully made a mark in the industry as they continue to mesmerize buyers and fashionst as with their Indian designs. Stylekandy.com caught up with the designers to know more about their preferences and design sensibilities. Ask them the reason for taking up fashion designing as a career and Shyamal reveals, “I wanted to become an architect since childhood. Probably it was the family influence since my dad belongs to designing field mom is a jewellery designer. Bhumika adds, “I am a NIFT graduate and when I met him we thought of launching our own in 2009.” The duo look India-wards for inspiration. “Our designs mostly incorporate an Indian element- hand embroideries and Indian handicraft. Even abroad, most of our clients are Indian, who actually crave for ethnicity in clothing. When we have to design for the western market, we keep global aesthetics in mind. Handicrafts are our forte”, explained Shyamal.
“When making western designs, we certainly refer to the global forecast. However, the ultimate decision is taken by our hearts. Despite the prediction we always decide on instinct and creativity”, uttered Bhumika. On a lighter note, we asked them what is the best compliment they have ever got. “Our collections have always been appreciated by people. It feels amazing when people email us or come and say that they love our work or they looked lovely in the designs. Also, there is no bigger compliment than feeling satisfied by ones own designs!” they speak diplomatically in tandem. They feel that designer play a huge role in reviving art and craft. “Almost all designers use some kind of handwork. That ways, the art gets promoted and craftsmen are benefitted. It is true that exploitation of this class exists, more so in rural areas, but one should make a conscious effort to remain fair and just. We should not depend on the government to help them out” Bhumika opines. Their idea of style is very simple and sophisticated. “When I have to style my self, I make it semi casual. Probably a simple basic coat with a subtle, extra noticeable element in it, paired with denims which are comfortable.” When not designing, Shyamal like reading books and short stories. “I also design interiors since I like architecture.” Enjoy exploring various cultures through travelling and horse riding are some of the other hobbies the duo enjoy.