He is probably the first designer to endorse lycra at a time when it was alien to India. With an investment of 17 years in the industry, he continues to weave beautiful casual garments for the fashion afficionados. His trademark black and white colour story has had people flaunting his line even in summer. Meet designer Jattinn Kochhar, who was in the City recently to give Bangaloreans a sneak peek into his Spring-Summer 2008 collection. Jattinn engaged in a quick chat with Metrolife about the myths and benefits of lycra, his new collection and our City.

Evergreen lycra...
Lycra is like denim. It can never go out of fashion. One must also note that lycra is not a fabric. It’s a fibre that can be blended into anything at all — polyester, cotton or wool. Even your nail polish has lycra. I recently designed the school uniform for Tagore International, Delhi, wherein I used lycra in the shoes. At certain times in the day, the feet tend to expand. So lycra expands with it.

Lycra myths...
It’s a myth that lycra ain’t good for summer. Lycra is advanced with moisture control properties.
The fibre will never make you sweat. In fact, you will never suffer from sweat patches. If you are particular, use linen lycra or cotton lycra. The second myth is that lycra is only for the great-bodied. It’s only the gym wear that has high lycra content. Today you get great work-wear with low lycra content.

Lycra in his clothes...
I am in my 17th year in the fashion industry. Each and every collection of mine has had lycra. One, it increases the life of the garment by almost ten years! The colours don’t bleed and the shape remains intact. People complain that lycra is expensive. But when it increases the garment’s life you are actually saving money! Lycra is not just a fashionable fabric. Lycra moves as your skin moves.

Lycra maintenance...
Although lycra is maintenance-free, one can take best care by washing it in mild liquid detergent when using a washing machine.
Of course, handwash is the best. Simply hang it on the hanger and let it dry. It’s only Indians who are wary about using lycra. Internationally, lycra is a done thing.

New collection...
My Spring-Summer 2008 is a clever amalgamation of ultra femininity and contemporary. It’s totally maintenance-free. You can sleep, eat and party in these garments.

Black for the sun...
Yes, I have used a lot of blacks in my collection. I always do because I love black and white. Black is a classic colour and is apt for every season. And looks good no matter what age or body type. Also, the fabrics have moisture control properties, making it light on the body.

On Bangalore...
I would love to do a stand-alone show here. But looks like no one wants to invite me (laughs). In fact, I think it’s the right time for me to come here because Bangaloreans are beginning to dress up well.
I see a lot of women wearing dresses that represent my style.
However, I have had dubious experiences in the past and wary about collaborating with anyone here. Pricing is another crucial factor. Bangaloreans never wanted to spend. But today the increasing youth population has enough disposable income. The market is ready. And I will explore it.

Money on clothes...
People complain that designer wear is expensive. I say if you pay for an old Ambassador, you cannot get a Mercedes Benz.
If you want to look different and stand-out in the crowd, you have to pay for it. It’s worth it.