The recently-held Bangalore Fashion Week opened its doors to cutting-edge designs. The 16th edition of the show, gave Bengalureans a peek into the world of young designers’ talents.
The show brought together both established and first-timers, who gave each other a run for their money.
The show started off with Dream Zone — which showcased the works of students by Dream Zone, a fashion institute. Then there were designers Gana Gowda and Rinu Alunkal, who showcased their Indo-Western collection — Nakshaa. Puneesh Chopra’s Dilwale, was a designer range for men.
However, the highlight of the day was the bridal collection — La Mystical Elegance — by Unais Mustafa. The young designer, who started his journey from working backstage at fashion shows to being in the spotlight with Raima Sen on the ramp, talks to MetroPlus about his passion for clothes.
Excerpts
What made you take up fashion designing?
I started off as an interior designer and later shifted to clothing. I got a job at Zara fashion in Dubai and worked backstage for many shows, including one of Manish Malhotra. In 2011, I shifted base here and started working on men and women’s clothing and opened my boutique, Page 3 Studio, in North Kerala. I have not looked back since.
What is your inspiration for this collection?
I have taken inspiration from Indian monuments and old ethnic wear.
The collection is all about going back to your roots and making it look regal. I have used raw silk with zardosi, mirrors and sequins hand-crafted on it. I love old Indian ethnic wear and want to revive it.
How have you grown as a designer?
I keep working on myself and try and introduce something new in my work. I feel I grow with each collection.
Which collection do you hold close to your heart and why?
I love whatever I make, but I love making a bridal collection. It is a big day in a bride’s life and I get to be a part of it. Seeing them happy wearing my designs touches me most.
Tell us something about the way you work.
I do everything on my own — from meeting weavers, interacting with them and telling them what I want. I also try to establish direct contact with weavers and aim to give them better opportunities.
Which celebrity did you enjoy working for?
I’ve worked for a lot of them and I enjoy what I do. It is my passion but designing for the former cricket team captain Dhoni for personal occasions is what I liked the most.
