Poonam Sagar met with the leading fashion designers from India Tarun Tahliani this week at the India house in Jakarta and this is what they had to say…
Tarun Tahiliani is one of the most celebrated Fashion Designers of India and a Graduate of the Wharton Business School, University of Pennsylvania and the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York.The designer clothes created by him are sold in New York, Tokyo, London, Hong Kong, Dubai, New Delhi and Mumbai. He is inspired by India textiles embroidery and other traditional techniques. His creations include fabric with block printing and have attractive color combinations.He is not a man of words but action. His creations have made ripples not only in India but also around the world in exclusive stores as well as in his own studios. Tarun’s brand is known to be of high style and flawless sensibility. His studio produces bridal trousseau, exclusive evening wear for women and men`s line. He is a name to reckon with in the industry and no show is complete without his presentation.
Is this you first trip to Indonesia?
I have been to Bali earlier but yes this is my first trip to Jakarta and I am amazed at the people and their style sense. It’s the 4th largest country and definitely an untapped market. I am looking forward to my next trip here in November for the Festival of India. We have been asked to design clothes using Indonesian fabrics under the Festival of India and it is such a fun and challenging project to work on. It’s a totally new challenge and am very excited.
What do you think of the Indonesian Fabrics and designs?
The Indonesian fabrics with the batik and ikat are fascinating and so inspired by the ones we saw yesterday. The textiles are just amazing. The Festival of India will showcase our culture in all its facets and we are part of the culture ambassadors of our country. I am looking forward to working with the Indonesian fabrics to design something that epitomizes the fusion concept.
What would you describe as a classic and timeless style?
The sari in its modern avatar is a classic. It is perfect for all body shapes and is elegant and timeless. What better garment could any fashion designer design for plus size women? Â I just love Asian fashion with its draped fabric form. This can be seen in my saris, moghul kurtas and, anarkali designs.
Your favorite design/style tip that all of us can followWear a sari, its definitely classic and has stood the test of time. It is suitable to the climate and lifestyle. In fact at one time, the sari design and draping style could define the region you came from.
Your advice to aspiring designers?
It is not all glamour and glitz. It requires a lot of learning and you need to study the craft and techniques. Find a good designer to apprentice with, and remember it always relentless hard work. Be passionate about your craft and work towards it.
