How did you get into this field?
As a kid, I always wanted to be a doctor. I had never imagined that fashion designing could be a career. But I loved colors and was extremely interested in art. My mother used to design “jamas” for me and my sisters. There used to be a Darjee Dai who would take our measurements and make the clothes. Those memories have always stayed with me. So, after I was done with high school, I decided to pursue the undergraduate course on Fashion Designing under Sikkim Manipal University. I also did internships in two export houses. This opened the doors to the world of colors, sketches and fabrics.[break]
Who and what inspires you to design?
My family is my greatest support system. They have been with me through thick and thin. Mother Nature has been extremely inspirational, too. I see designs everywhere in nature. It’s so vibrant, so full of colors and patters. I gain my musings from the moon, the sun, the stars, rivers, mountains and leaves. Butterflies fascinate me a lot. They are so delicate and pretty. Other than that, I’m a huge movie buff. I get loads of ideas from cinema. Moreover, there’s the Internet which helps me remain up to date with the latest trends.
What’s been your greatest satisfaction and achievement in this field?
I was overwhelmed when my gown worn by Nagma Shrestha won the best dress award at the Miss Earth beauty pageant in 2012. This was the first time Nepal had won an award in the best dress category at an international pageant. It was a moment of great pride and joy for me because it was also my first award.
What’s the most interesting part about being a fashion designer?
It’s an amazing field to be a part of. On one hand, you can fulfill a little girl’s fantasy of looking like a Barbie doll or a princess. And on the other hand, you have the opportunity for name, fame and variety. I’ve designed clothes for Manisha Koirala, Priyanka Karki, Nisha Adhikari, Shristi Shrestha, and Varun Rana. I’ve worked for Samsung, Bajaj, and Dabur. I’ve done over a dozen fashion shows. I’ve even designed for a few movies. It’s all been very interesting.
How does it feel to see your work on stage or on screen?
No matter how experienced I am, each time I expose my creation, I feel like I’m sitting for an exam. I keep my fingers crossed and pray that everything goes well. It’s so thrilling to see your work out in the open. When you’re a designer, your clothes become your children. You love what you’ve created. But I’m also open to constructive criticism so that I can polish myself and do better.
What kind of fabrics do you use and where do you get them?
I design all kinds of clothes, from saris and gowns to business suits and uniforms. I get my fabrics from Indra Chowk. From the very early days, it’s been the economic hub of Kathmandu. The fabrics I choose depend on the weather. For summer, I use cotton and linen. With winter comes the trend of wool and blazer. But there are some fabrics like georgette, chiffon and silk which never go out of fashion.
Do you have any favorite designers and fashion icons?
I’m a huge fan of Prabal Gurung and Stella McCartney. And I closely follow what Sonam Kapoor and Angelina Jolie wear.
What were the major challenges when you first started out?
It was really difficult. When I started my boutique Cross Road Apparel, I was a novice. I made a lot of mistakes. I couldn’t prepare the clothes in time. I couldn’t manage the budget well. But with time and practice, currently, my boutique is doing very well and all my clients are happy with me.
Apart from designing, what else are you interested in?
I enjoy cooking. I even wanted to become a chef at some point of time. Also, I love helping people. So, I’ve combined these two interests. We organize an event called Curry without Worry every Tuesday evening. It’s held at Basantapur where we cook and feed people. Apart from that, I’m also associated with Sikshya Nepal, an organization that works for children in remote parts of Nepal. We collect donated books in order to set up libraries in those districts. It was also an amazing experience be a part of an Instant relief program recently. We collected clothes and blankets and distributed them to the needy in the freezing weather of Rautahat.
What’s more, this New Year, I visited Gorkha and attended an event organized by Gorkha Multitalented Group. There were thirteen visually impaired children whom I wanted to help. So, I’ve been arranging cassettes and special books that will help them study. I’m also planning to be legally associated with the organization.
Keshab Thoker
What message would you give to the upcoming designers of Nepal?
You are all welcome to this wonderful and colorful world. But do come in with proper training and practice. This field requires a lot of focus and patience. When we were starting out, there were so few designers. But now, many colleges are giving quality education on fashion designing. Crash courses can also help. Never miss your practical classes and do all your assignments because even the smallest details help you in the long run. Our country is affluent in culture. We can derive innovative ideas from our own traditional attires and jewelry. We are all creative people. We must dare to dream and imagine.
Any fashion tips?
I think Kathmandu is getting a lot more open and fashion conscious. People know what to wear and when to wear them. I would just advise everyone to wear whatever makes them feel comfortable, confident and attractive. Just remember, if you look into the mirror and feel good about how you look, that attire works for you.
What are your future plans?
I still have a long way to go. I want to work at an international level. By the end of this month, I’m launching my own brand. I even plan to start a chain of boutiques. Also, more social work is on the cards. I believe that if you can use what you already have to spread a little more joy, life becomes simply beautiful.
younitya@gmail.com
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