In this age where technological innovation is the key to attracting attention of Generation X, couturier Anju Modi has for a change drawn inspiration from a mythological figure to churn out contemporary outfits. The 21 outfits are a blend of ancient art, complex interweaving of intricate patterns and aesthetic design. The designer has attempted to resuscitate age-old craft and ancient techniques.
Anju’s collection, along with those of other designers including Varun Bahl and Payal Pratap, was on display at a two-day exhibition Ogaan Couture Week in the Capital.
“Through these dresses I have tried to present a vintage collection. Reincarnation is the theme and I have derived inspiration from a goddess who lived centuries ago in the Ajanta cave.” Just when one asks for confirmation on the Ajanta cave, she breaks into laughter and says, “As a creative person, I have used a bit of imagination, mythology and the rich Indian art of eighth century.”
But in this technologically-driven age doesn’t she think that mythology is outdated? “I studied the art of the ancient period and then designed according to the requirements of today’s fast moving contemporary women,” she replies.
Getting feedback from the garment-conscious public is of utmost importance for any designer and Anju is no different. “Such events act as a platform to interact with customers and understand things from their perspective. Such interactions are needed to know their wardrobe needs.”
For Varun Bahl, this was his first association with Ogaan and he chose dresses straight from the ramp to allure prospective buyers. The collection is for the quintessential Indian woman who reveres customs and traditions, but wants to create a style statement when the family celebrates festivals like Diwali or Id.
“Every designer has his or her design sensibility. This collection is basically completion of 10 years of my work. You can say it is a retrospective; it has outfits from my favourite collections. I have displayed different techniques and summarised things.”
