From designing the Miss India Universe crowns in 2006 and 2007 to winning the much acclaimed NID Business World Design Award for ‘Best Accessory Design’ in 2004, Bangalore-based Pallavi Foley has done it all. Her relentless effort to excel and fervent passion for her craft make her one of the most sought after accessory designers in the country.
In the run up to the renowned Lakme Fashion Week, which is slated to be held next month, and in which she will be participating, this designer extraordinaire talks to MetroPlus about her collection, “Within”. Delving into the concept of “Within”, Pallavi explains: “Inspired from the innermost core, the essence of being you, the heart of your existence, this collection represents the many levels and layers that make each one of us who we are. It is an artistic and philosophical collection.”
She says: “‘Within’ consists of 16-17 pieces of jewellery. Each of the items has a story of its own. It is a combination of my travels, the people I meet and my experiences in life that add flavour to my work.” Getting into the specifics, Pallavi explains: “Structurally, modern sculptures and geometric spaces form the architecture of the line. As the details of the piece unfold, the uniquely juxtaposed elements offer a striking yet balanced visual treat. In terms of materials, I’ve used a gamut of them from lacquered wood, 18K gold, silver, and tanzanite to diamonds, pearls, and other semi precious stones.
There are a few collector’s items in the collection. These are limited edition pieces and have a number marked on them. About the USP of her collection, she states: “These mini sculptures are mostly 3D pieces. We view life with a three dimensional perspective so I wanted to bring that concept into my creation.” Known for her work with local artisans, even this time around, the designer worked with local craftsmen from Karnataka and she’s used the Bidri technique of jewellery-making that involves inlaying of one metal onto another and the beauty of it lies in the striking contrast of colours.
According to her, “the biggest challenge involved in the creative process of ‘Within’ was the engineering aspect. With all the detailing and the layering, attention had to be paid to the minutest feature. Even before production started I had a vision of what I wanted the collection to look like and translating that vision onto the product with the exact look and feel that I had imagined did take time.” And who is this collection designed for? “‘Within’ is for the expressive woman, who loves hi- fashion and who is not afraid to make a strong statement as the styling of the collection is bold and contemporary,” she says. Pallavi’s creations are showcased and sold at her exclusive boutique in the Leela Galleria. Looking ahead she plans to make her presence online as well as launch a couple of stores in the different fashion capitals of the world.
