Reflecting royalty

Bridal couture

She started her career with celebrated designer duo Divya and Vandana after which she worked for the Rocky S design project.

Designer Monika Chaudhary soon launched her label, ‘Monika Nidhii’, with her
sister in 2012. Creating timeless and contemporary bridal and Indian wear is their forte and Monika says that every garment that she works on has a story to tell.
 
In a conversation with Surupasree Sarmmah, the designer talks about the most challenging outfit she created, her dream design and her latest collection.

What about the fashion world interested you...

I was in grade 12 and opted for Science but I was very bad in Chemistry and Maths. I couldn’t concentrate at all because of this and spent most of my time doing creative stuff and sketching. Then I thought of pushing myself to do something along those lines. The fact that one can be in their own world and create something unique motivated me to pick fashion designing as a
career.

The most difficult and preferred fabric to work with, according to you...

I would say chiffon is difficult to work with as it is very delicate. I love to work with ‘chanderi’ silk. It has a sheen that is natural and organic, yet gives out a classy feel and falls perfectly.

One of the most challenging outfits that you have created...
It was my sister’s wedding outfit which was an ‘anarkali-lehenga’. I gave an ombre shade to the outfit with floral ‘resham’ and Parsi embroidery. I had to complete the work in a span of 15 to 20 days.  There was a lot of emotion attached to it and it had to be my best creation.  
 
What will your dream design be?

A few years down the lane, I want to design an outfit that creates a revolution.

Three years from now you would like to...

See a lot more brides choosing to wear my designs. I would like to see more visibility in terms of my label, and also see leading celebrities wearing my creations.

Your latest collection is breathtaking...

Sparkles and pearl work with rich motifs describe my latest collection. I have also used ‘chikankari’ embroidery and sequins that give an enchanting feel to the outfit. The materials I have highlighted are georgette, tulle, organza and brocade in pastel and muted colours.   

Three must-haves in your wardrobe...

A right pair of denims, a white shirt and statement jewellery.