Designer Ritu Kumar takes Indian fashion to Spain

Fashion veteran Ritu Kumar is all set to showcase her couture collection in Spain which is awarding the designer for her efforts to popularise the craft and traditional weaves of India.

Kumar will display 10 garments at 'Valladolid de Moda Fashion Week' to be held in Madrid and Valladolid from June 28-30 and also participate in business meets with Spanish designers and institutes to brainstorm on fashion collaborations and deals, a first between both the countries.

"The garments are part of my couture collection. I have used dull gold metallic threads and traditional look fabrics with dhapka and mukarish work embellished with sequins to give a royal look," Kumar told PTI.

The designer says she would skip the upcoming couture fashion week in Delhi early next month to participate in the Spanish event.

"I have been invited as the finale designer and FDCI supported my decision to go to Spain as it is a national honour for us," says Kumar who is fellow member of Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI).

The Delhi-based fashion guru whose work draws heavily from the embroidery and textile heritage of India says she is excited about showing in Spain.

"I am quite excited about the event which will be held in an old monastery outside Madrid. Spain is quite eastern in its aesthetics and they love the colours and drama associated with India," says Kumar who is taking an assortment of Mangalpuri, cotton and Benarasi beadwork on her trip.

The collection employs dull and gold metallic threads, interspersed with a line of antique looking textiles which drape, enhance and produce the most romantic imagery of a yesteryear of royalty.

Organised by Indian cultural centre in Spain, the fashion event would have Indian representation from officials of the Indian Institute of Fashion Technology and FDCI among others.

Alongwith Ritu Kumar, Spanish designer Elyo Berhanyer would also be honoured at the event.

"The objective of this meeting between specialists, institutions and professionals is to provide a platform to discuss a common commercial cooperation, industrial, cultural and educational strategy between the two countries in the fashion industry," says Kumar.