For two decades now, Latha Puttanna has worked towards making the traditional design timeless. She has worked hard to establish Shrishti as a label, and has not compromised irrespective of what the rest of the country thought was fashionable. “I work with handlooms that have been sourced from across the country, and I work within a framework of tradition and class. I use different kinds of fabric and innovate. This is my trademark,” says Latha.
She does not cater to the niche that wants fusion; she does not want to mix and match either. “I make clothes to suit the Indian complexion and the weather. I concentrate on creating a look we can identify with.”
Latha has worked towards what she believes looks good. “I know I cater to a niche market, but I cannot explain how much I faith I have in what I do. It is not about the money anymore. We have such good artisans in the country, we need to make use of it. Everything is international these days; we have something the world doesn't have, and I'm trying to make that look glamourous.” Although she admits this was not something she thought of when she started 20 years ago, it all fell in place only as she continued her work in the field.
About the exhibition in Chennai, Latha says: “I have been going to Chennai year after year, and it is very easy to please the crowd here because their taste and selection is more south Indian, and they appreciate my work.”
(Latha Puttanna unveils her will be in Chennai for the unveiling of her Summer Collection 2012, and it will be on view which will be held at Grand Hyatt Regency, 365, Anna Salai, Teynampet on March 10 between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.)
