Call him a maverick or the bad boy of the Indian fashion industry, ace designer Rohit Bal never ceases to impress a fashion connoisseur. His impeccable sense of design evolves year after year, giving the audience a variety of visual treats. Recently for a men’s fashion event in the City, Bal dressed the new Indian groom with his Siyahi collection accessorised with a bridal nose ring and blue sindoor!
On this quick visit to Bangalore, Metrolife engaged in a quicker tete tete with the Gudda of the fashion fraternity.
How do you manage to create great collections year after year?
(laughs) I don’t compare any of my work. If it’s better than last time, I am only happy. I just put in my best effort.
Tell us about your collection Siyahi?
It’s inspired by the city of Istanbul. Siyahi means ink and so I have used shades of blue in my entire collection that comprises sherwanis and jodhpuris. I have used woven fabrics like linen, net, chanderi, silk and lycra in this collection.
Several fashion weeks taking place back to back in India. Is it worth the effort?
There is only one fashion week and that is Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week. All others are just fashion galas. If there is no business happening at the fair, it’s not a fashion week.
Do Indians follow trends and invest money in fashion?
Indians follow whatever we give them. And they have been spending money on fashion for the last 20 years.
It is said that you have been chosen as the fashion consultant for Madhur Bhanderkar’s next titled Fashion. Is it also true that you are making a special appearance in the film?
I don’t know if I am working as a fashion consultant in the film as yet. As far as making a special appearance in the film is concerned, I am not aware at all.
How important is ‘India Men’s Fashion Fair’ (IMFF) for you?
IMFF needs to be made more important. The event must get more buyers. It needs to get a more business feel. It must become a commercial venture.
How apt is Bangalore as the venue for this event?
Bangalore is a great venue, has great weather, great people. It’s great for everything! Name any male celebrity, national and international, that you would like to dress up.
Rahul Gandhi. He needs more than just a khadi kurta and pyjama. He would look good in anything that is more with it. I will create something for him that is very stylish yet reeks of Indianness. It has to be stylised.
Internationally, I would love to dress up Johnny Depp and Matthew McConaughey. I am willing to dress them up in anything at all. (laughs)
What future does men’s fashion hold?
Right on top!
