Pero introduces saris for the first time, as Aneeth takes a trip around India to uncover the myriad jewels of weaves, she styles effortlessly into modern ensembles for a woman, who is unafraid of being herself.
There is a little book that Aneeth Arora keeps to record all the things that have impacted her – quotes, people, situations and techniques that somehow translate into her inspiration. So it isnt foreign travels to exotic places, but simple things which she has the power to make extraordinary with her Labour of Love. And there were glimpses of that thought process in the little hand made book which offered a keyhole view into the world of Pero.
I dont wait for an inspiration at the end of the season .I just put things down in my little book or computer to record it for posterity .it could be good food, music or a poem I read, she smiles.
Maybe thats why Aneeths line was impactful, surreal and of course, had been in some ways inspired by Mary Poppins (thats why you got multicoloured M & Ms along and the quote—In every job that must be done there is an element of fun. You find the fun, and snap—-the job is a game.-Mary Poppins).
I started with Mary Poppins thats why you see the quote by her, but as I evolved while doing my line, other things came to my mind, she admits. Much like the garments she designs, which are sometimes stitched, then hung for a while to get the right shape and then finished.
This time it was polka dots, so she went around India and did screen and block printing, Ikat, Jamdani, appliqué to create a line which for the first time had saris. I wanted to do saris, but my buyers didnt want it in the look book as it goes all over the world. But I had my argument in place—-if Hermes could do it and it was sold globally then I could do it too. But a Pero sari is a bit different, almost unkempt. Though I must confess I struggled to get the look right, she smiles.
Aneeth mixes textiles, and styles it in a way that its an experience you enjoy, I am not doing any favour by using Indian textiles and also not because it is fashionable .this is the only thing I know how to do, she remarks.
Hand done, hand woven, this personalized line, is not your usual Swarovski overloaded glam, but it exudes subtle elegance. The beaded collars, block printed lace dress, ikat shorts and jumpsuit displayed Aneeths mastery over detailing. For me glam is about being sensitive to textiles, what you are wearing and feel good about it. I dress women who are not dripping brands but who are interested in knowing the story behind the garments, she smiles.