The first thing that strikes you about Archana Kochhar is her composure. A day after she showcased her collection at Bangalore Fashion Week (BFW), the designer seemed unruffled by her hectic schedule.
She took time out to speak about how she plans for every collection and her journey as a designer. “When I was 16, I did an exhibition for which I hired a 1,000 square feet hall. I was younger then and thought everything is possible. It worked. I sold pieces and made money out of it. That was my foundation stone. People accepted my designs. When we see the world appreciate our art, it encourages us.” It was after she completed her MBA that Archana began pursuing fashion designing full time. In her career, which spans over a decade, Archana has come to be known for her wedding wear and for her global design sensibility. Her forte is designing lehengas, saris, gowns, dresses and anarkalis that combine exquisite embroidery and innovative texturing techniques.
She started her own label, Archana Kochhar, has showcased her work at top-notch fashion shows and is considered an ace couturier. “I like making heavier garments for special occasions,” says the award-winning designer.
Archana says Indian women’s fashion sense has evolved over the years. “Global sensibilities have set in,” she affirms.
But she doesn’t believe that a woman must do something special to be fashionable. “Bringing out an individual style is difficult. Style evolves over time, it is good to experiment and dabble to develop a style statement.”She says Indian women look best in tunics. “It is a cross between a salwar kameez and a t-shirt, which hides the flaws and accentuates a woman’s body.”
“As a designer, I am inspired by my travels. I pick up elements and little by little, I place them in my creations.” The Chokhi Collection, which she showcased at BFW, is inspired by the architecture and heritage of Rajasthan, the collection combined architectural prints, earthy colours, from saffron, deep burgundy and brown, mirror work and Rajasthani motifs.
Archana’s recent venture is Muaak, a line that showcased her collection Regal Scarlet at India Fashion Week in Dubai.
