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When creativity flows

GEMS AND THE GIRL Farah Khan

Farah Khan is the go-to jewellery label for Bollywood hotties when they want to add that extra sparkle to some of the biggest evenings of their lives. But the designer behind the show-stopping creations believes that it's not the filmy endorsements that have made her a sought-after name in the world of high fashion. “It's the well-nuanced aesthetics, quality of stones and richness in detail that explain my staying power,” she says.

Belonging to the famous Khan khandaan of showbiz (think father Sanjay, mother Zarine, brother Zayed, sister Suzanne, and cousin Fardeen), Farah's innate sense of style anchored her to the world of design despite her just wanting to “party in LA”.

Jewellery design was just not on her mind. “It just happened. I couldn't even tell one stone from another. I went to California hoping to have a great time. But, somehow, I got into the Gemological Institute of America and even topped my batch in 1992-93. That kind of spurred me to continue my journey…and here I am,” she says.

Farah makes her debut in Chennai at Studio Saks, Gopalapuram, (November 27, 28, from 11.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m.). “I'm eager to see how the city responds to my creations,” she smiles. “I'll be showcasing ‘Cascade', the collection I specially designed for Couture Week recently. Essentially, it's about fluid lines and eye-catching tones. I've experimented with necklines; so, you'll find necklaces with interesting twists.”

Play of colour is obviously one of Farah's strengths. “Colour is an important aspect of our lives. And, jewellery without colour is like a world in black-and-white. Colour defines a piece of creation; it gives it character. It's important for me to mix and match diamonds with gemstones — permutations and combinations that add vibrancy and fluidity to the work.”

Sure conversation starters, Farah's jewellery is high-end. Set in gold and encrusted with precious stones in a burst of hues and shapes, they are very couture in aesthetic. “I would have loved to come to Chennai with a prêt line. But as the wedding season is on, I'll display my couture collection. It includes necklaces, earrings, bracelets and finger rings.”

For someone whose references have been varied — from Jamevaar to handbags (!), Farah believes that “inspiration comes from a canvas of life experiences. Just like artists get motivated by Nature that's common to all, designers too have certain common points of stimulation. But, it's the interpretation that makes the difference.”

Having had a strong foundation in gemmology and design, Farah says: “The academic grind helps me envision and execute three-dimensional objects of beauty. Besides, each stone has its unique characteristic. So, it has to be handled and set accordingly. The value of jewellery goes up with every passing year, unlike clothes. So, quality of material and craftsmanship matter. And, when you think couture, jewellery has to have an heirloom feel — it has to be traditional with a contemporary twist. That's what I've done; taken ancient jadau techniques and used them in modern diamond settings!”

Though she's been in the business for the past 16 years, creating pieces for a close circle of friends, Farah leapt into the limelight only in 2004 when she launched her signature label. “Even today, I don't feel like parting with some of my pieces. I'm particular about who the wearer is, and her sense of appreciation for its aesthetic. Every piece I create is about a moment in my life that I cherish deeply.”

Always spotted in Mumbai's social whirl, the designer says: “I'm working like a man, despite sticking to all my commitments as a wife and mother of two children. Come January, and I'm planning to have some exclusive ‘me' time. You know how it is — out of sight means out of mind. So, you have to be around in the P3 circuit. But, it's exhausting. Showbiz comes with a baggage. Even on a rotten day, you have to pretend life's rocking!”

Trends to watch out for in the coming seasons

Peace symbols We've seen too much gore.

Bollywood-inspired pieces A touch of kitsch.

Stackable jewellery More is more! Don't just use single pieces. Pile them!

Animals are on the prowl In necks, ears and fingers. Yes, they make haute motifs

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