Shveata Chandel Singh catches up with the Indian designer after his show in Sydney.
His clothes are out of this world. And that’s precisely the intent, says designer Manish Arora, because that’s where he is transported too, when he is creating them. From a Swarovski crystal-embellished dress featuring a large tiger’s head to an orang-utan-inspired purse, Manish is known for his whimsical over the top fashion, whether it’s the fish fry shoes or the orchid frock with battery-operated petals that open and close.
Manish, whose designs are popular with Rihanna and Lady Gaga is also the first person of Indian descendent to show in the Paris Fashion Week.
Though born and brought up in Mumbai, the world of couture always fascinated Manish, who finally decided to take up fashion designing while he was pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Commerce. A course at National Institute of Fashion Technology came next, and from then on he could see his career falling in place, one stitch at a time.
It wasn’t long before Manish was recognised for his amazing creative collection. Paris was inevitable.
In early 2011, he was appointed as the creative director of the women wear collection of the French fashion house Pace Rabanne, although he left the company in May 2012.
Manish owns his own stores as well as sells his collections to more than 80 retailers worldwide. The designer has also entered into a joint venture with Biba Apparel Pvt. Ltd to further expand the label.
Although frequently theatrical and magnificent in appearance, Manish’s garments are entirely hand-made following ancient artisanal techniques.
During his recent visit to Sydney, Shveata Chandel Singh spoke to him about his clichés and craftsmanship.
How did you get started in the fashion industry?
After studying at NIFT, I started designing in 1997. Soon after, I was invited to show at the London Fashion week, and then at Paris National Week.
What difference do you find in fashion in Delhi and Paris?
In Delhi, fashion is still very young, but in Paris, fashion is born.
What do you love most about your designs?
I use Indian techniques and craftsmanship in my clothes. I love colours and I keep on experimenting with different colours. It is all about patterns, and more and more colours.
What did you enjoy most about your recent fashion show in Sydney?
Sydney is a very beautiful city, and I feel a special bond with it. I showed my favourite clothes, which I have designed in the last 10 years in the fashion show here. So it was the best of my collection on display.
How many models were there?
There were only a few models, and 25-26 dresses on display.
Tell us something about your brands?
In 1997, I launched my label “Manish Arora”, and started retailing in India. Three years later, I participated in the first-ever India Fashion Week held in New Delhi and represented India at the Hong Kong Fashion Week.
I launched my second label, “Fish Fry”, in 2001. This colourful, sportswear-styled line was created in association with the athletic apparel manufacturer Reebok.
In 2002, I opened my first flagship store, Manish Arora Fish Fry, in New Delhi, and in the following year, opened a second store in Mumbai. The showing at India Fashion Week (2003) led to a stocking deal with the fashion house Maria Luisa (Paris) and the beginning of my export business.
I also collaborated with Swatch for a limited edition of watches. In 2008, I teamed up with Reebok and launched the ‘RBK Fish Fry Collection 2008’, an exclusive lifestyle range.
“Indian by Manish Arora”, a brand designed for the growing Indian market for women’s wear, is licensed to another fashion company. I was invited to show my collection at the “Fashion in Motion” exhibition held at Victoria and Albert Museum, London in September 2007.
In 2012, I previewed my jewellery line in association with the label Amrapali.
What is your design mantra?
Every step ahead is an award in itself as every new design is a new test in itself.
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