Dress Code:India Modern

Ace couturier TARUN TAHILIANI gives SHAGUN GANDHI his interpretation of the fluid traditional in the evolving fashion scenario.

- Shagun Gandhi

How far back does your love for fashion go?

I was born with fashion, but I formally got into it when I started Ensemble. Fashion is my muse!

Change is in the air… When it comes to Indian couture there is a visible evolution. Once you get comfortable in western outfits people get used to the fit and proportion so they start enjoying well-cut and fitted clothes which are easy to move around in. As most bridal wear revolves around couture there is no fun in heavy clothes which restrict movement and come in the way of the wedding celebrations – hence the shift to lighter outfits is a key trend. As an Indian couture house we understand that we need to be more accessible to the changing demographic. Indians now understand western principles of cut and construct, fit and finish and we will have to deliver! As Indians become wealthier, their standards are more exacting and the industry is gearing up for just that. India’s propensity to consume is gaining an international audience and this is changing the competitive landscape. I think we must live in the present and be fluidly modern. One can be traditional but I hate the idea of living in the past. Tomorrow must have freshness. Our collections are inspired by the concept of India Modern. The textiles and the embroideries are traditional. Modern is the use of fit, pattern and construction and of course the kinds of materials used. In terms of budgets, in terms of design, I think that there are a few brides who are happy to be a little more experimental sometimes with what they wear but mostly when it comes to outfits for their Sangeet or their Mehendi they are more open to experimenting with the silhouette. When it comes to the wedding lehenga itself, I think most people like to stick with what is traditional. Obviously this varies from bride-to-bride.