WONDER WOMEN

There’s no denying that power dressing has evolved since the days of relying on shoulder-pads and pinstripes for a little chutzpah. Today, L’Officiel India speaks to the women in fashion who are doing their bit, by using design as a medium to empower the feminine spirit around the world.

- CHITMAN KANWAR AHUJA

MANDEEP NAGI

DESIGN DIRECTOR, SHADES OF INDIA

The relationship between fashion and empowerment is a generational one. It is influenced by many different factors. For me, fashion isn’t about following trends, purchasing expensive shoes or handbags, but rather it is a form of self-expression, selflove, and liberation.

A language to express who you are, a sign of independence. Fashion is cultural, it’s seasonal, and fosters dialogue. It’s beyond social, economic, and financial limitations. It can stem from tradition, or as a sign of protest. It’s not something that’s created for the empowered, but the other way around; its the empowered who create and use fashion to express themselves.

While fashion is viewed as external, in reality, it is a bridge between the inner-self and the outside world. It can make a person feel vulnerable yet empowered at the same time. It is a reverse concept for me. It encourages attention, and communicates to those who see the expression of self. In the same manner, it can empower one in many ways; like serving the purpose of confidence, a physical need, a sense of community, to evoke memories, for comfort, to mark significant days in one’s life. To not view this relationship as expansive would be incredibly myopic view.

Fashion, also is a creative pursuit, often undefined, fueled by ideas sparked by people like you or I. Those who want to see their designs become reality, while being inspired by traditions, nature, and indigenous crafts. This in turn requires communities to fulfil that vision and have the power to provide training, fair prices, sustainable livelihoods, and financial independence.

KATHERINE NEUMANN

FOUNDER & DIRECTOR, HOUSE OF WANDERING SILK