It would not be an exaggeration to say that vibrant outfits and abstract paintings complement each other. Or perhaps influence one another. This rings true in the work of Delhi-based designer Anuradha Ramam, who believes there is a correlation between the two forms of creativity.
Her vision for fashion and art can be seen in her brand new store at Shahpurjat. One is greeted by salwar kameez in black, red, yellow and mustard and heavily embroidered saris along with abstract paintings hung aesthetically on the wall.
But are these artistic impressions meant to prove that Anuradha is adept at multi-tasking?
“That I am good at multi-tasking can be seen from the fact that I work in interiors, paintings and making salwar kameez and saris in vibrant colours. Even while running on the treadmill, I am contemplating my next design pattern for my new dress. The mind is always working; the only thing is how fast I am able to implement ideas,” says the designer.
In all her three stores in the Capital, Anuradha has hung artistic impressions made by her.
“As a child I developed a fondness for drawing, and later fashion became a passion for me. My paintings influence my garments and vice-versa.”
Anuradha’s approach to design, blending ancient heritage with a contemporary twist, is evident in the wide range of garments on display at her store, which caters to the middle class as well as the creamy layer.
It was important for the 38-year-old designer to have the right blend of clothes. The store is stocked with sober-looking garments with subdued colours. Vying for attention are cosmopolitan dresses, a mixture between traditional designs and Western wear. The outfits look as if they could be popular with office-going women.
For those willing to take home a garment with elaborate embroidery work and are willing to shell out more money, there are resplendent saris with kantha work.
The designer specialises in adopting a unique methodology to create saris.
She amalgamates design patterns of West Bengal, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh to make the distinctive Anuradha Ramam label. Anuradha believes that blending motifs from three or four or five States would make her sari more appealing.
Hailing from Haldia, an industrial town in West Bengal, Anuradha learnt designing on the job and her interaction with local artisans helped her to create a unique style statement.
Today these 300 artisans and weavers from Bengal, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh have become a part of her extended family as she exchanges ideas with them and makes them a part of her brand.
