One of the first few names to take Indian fashion abroad, Ritu Beri has concentrated her work in Paris as well as in New Delhi. The designer who presented at the Mumbai fashion week in August after a long gap of six years, was in the city yesterday, showcasing her ethnic festive collection at a multi-designer fashion store.
Explaining her absence, Ritu says, “I love Mumbai, so I’m always happy to be here. My schedule has kept me very busy and I have been away travelling, hence I was not available in the past. Fashion for me is not just restricted to designing clothes for the supermodels. It is about real people in real situations.” Her line draws inspiration from the rich Indian culture with artistic handwork modelled into contemporary silhouettes.
Having travelled and showcased her designs across the globe, Ritu still feels Paris is the fashion capital. “Paris is where style inspires and fashion thrives. It is a city of magical soirees and a haven for the discerning gastronomes. One cannot miss the miraculous collision of glamour and French seduction — a real mix of beauty and adventure. In this city, everything is irresistible,” she adds. And what about India, is it slowly establishing itself as a fashion capital?
“Today our designers are constantly showcasing all over the world. Our fashion weeks are also gaining attention from the international outlets, fashion representatives and buyers gradually. These events, however, still have a long way to go in comparison to the fashion weeks in Milan, London, New York and Paris,” affirms Ritu.
Aside from her fashion line, she also likes to try her hand at projects that are out of the box. “I love to do interiors and pen down my experiences. However, I prefer not to do too much work that keeps me away from my daughter. I am planning to tie-up with certain international brands soon. I’m also deeply involved in a charity for children, the Blessed Hearts Foundation that works to improve the condition of less fortunate kids,” adds Ritu.
Pradeep Hirani, Chairman Managing Director, Kimaya Fashion says Ritu has always been an immense source of inspiration for young designers. “Her international approach towards garments is en par with international trends and silhouettes but deep-rooted in the art and embroidery of India. Her clothes truly embody the dictum of ‘global outlook, local soul’,” he says.
