Aneeth Arora was in Lucknow for a wedding when she saw men outside the mosque in crochet caps and white, long chikankari kurtas and lungis, instantly she knew that was going to be the theme for her SS 13 line. But thats not all.
She combined this with European laces and Madras checks to value add, and no, she doesnt like to fidget too much with the original textiles and preserves its essence by keeping it as it is. So Aneeths checks on the fourth day at the WIFW were in blues, blacks and whites and werent dyed to keep them natural. There is always an underlined simplicity in Aneeths clothes, and she corrects you if you dare to address her as a fashion designer, I am a dress maker, she says.
Thoughtful, calm and precise, Aneeth observed the market around her and found a gap, there was enough for evening wear and weddings but what about the day? When I was staring out there was plenty for cocktails, parties and your trousseau, but nothing much for a working girl who wants a no fuss wardrobe. Everyone wants something comfortable but special that will make them feel good and thats how the idea of this line came about, she smiles.
Not one to follow forecasts, or plan, think about a colour palette, Aneeth follows her heart and while working with karigars, she often goes by what they suggest even if it is diametrically opposite to what she believes. I work with craftsmen who have no concept of time or understanding of deadlines so I start way ahead to give them enough time to create a piece. I cater to the overseas market Japan, Europe and UK, they want something that is visually appealing, creative but above all practical, she says.
Attention to detail is Aneeths forte, buttonholes done by hand, churi sleeves, lace added to woo the younger audience, there is an underlined simplicity that the clothes reflect, just like Aneeth. If you look closely there is a lot to smocking and quilting that is subtly done in keeping with the casual theme, she adds. And while others slave over inspirations and executions, Aneeth follows no trends, just narrows it down to three techniques shed like to work with for the season and puts together an elegant show!