Good times in fashion are here

Here’s where you’re fed on the latest in high fashion — style tips, designer buzz, avant-garde collections. Watch it all on ‘I’m Too Sexy For My Shoes’, which recently entered its fifth season. In a tete-a-tete with Sunday Herald, the show’s host — Ambika Anand shares her journey so far and what new trends fashionistas can expect from show.

Excerpts from an interview:

Describe your journey so far and what have you learnt from the show?
The journey has constantly been uphill. We haven’t just limited ourselves in understanding the world of international fashion. There has always been a conscious effort to look at multiple textiles, weaves and embroideries that are found in India. What’s interesting and surprising is how you think  that a lot has been explored about fashion in India. But, suddenly you discover a new form of fashion.  The show has helped me realise the actual worth of fabrics.  A lot of work goes into developing them, which is why garments made from these textiles are highly priced.

What’s new about season five?
The new season continues to explore the latest trends in fashion. To add to it, also throws light on the innate yet unusual. It’s about presenting the extreme sides of the fashion spectrum — a look at the fashion capitals of the world and also giving viewers a taste of traditional shopping. For instance upcoming episodes showcase street shopping near Charminar in Hyderabad and at the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk. Another unique element this season is focussing on people from India who do not conform to fashion dictates. India is the world's best example of fashion dichotomy and the show is a reflection of the same. For instance we are doing a story on fashion inspired by tribes in the country, which has been an inspiration to many designers.

What sets apart ‘I’m Too Sexy For My Shoes’ from other shows belonging to the similar format?
The show looks at fashion very intelligently and puts across the idea that it is an art form, suggesting viewers how to wear fashion and creating a perception that it is an acquired taste. ‘I’M Too Sexy For My Shoes’ aims to develop both these aspects for all aspiring divas.

You have visited myriad places, right from like Kashmir to Banaras for the show. Any memorable experiences?
We went to Kashmir for three days before the state elections. A curfew was imposed everyday after five in the evening while roads were practically empty throughout the day. The entire experience was surreal as we did not know what to expect each time we stepped out of the hotel. Shooting with Rohit Bal in Srinagar was memorable too. The episode dealt with the making of the original ‘Jamewar’ shawl. We hunted for weavers across three villages, hoping to find at least one who makes them. Unfortunately, we couldn't. Locals revealed that artisans rarely make these shawls as it’s financially not viable. A lot of work and time goes into making this clothing item, which generally proves futile as no one is willing to pay the high price it deserves. Banaras, on the other hand, reminds me of a  narrow street that lead us to a quaint shop selling pink ‘minakari’— a distinct feature of Banaras. Unlike Banaras, ‘minakari’ work is generally found in shades of only blue or green in other cities.

Tell us about fashion trends and designers to look out for in 2010.
I think jumpsuits are a big trend but you do need to be super fit for them. Also, clothes will have a romantic touch, with a lot of frills and lace. In the next few episodes of the show, we will visit Paris, Venice, Hyderabad, Chandni Chowk in Delhi, Goa and Colombo to learn about the fashion culture of these regions. We have focused on the works of younger designers like Pallavi Mohan, Shrivan Narresh, Amit Aggarwal, Virtues among others in the previous seasons. We adore the fresh energy they infuse in their lines and will continue to do so.