'I'm a no-heels person'

Designer Divya Reddy loves travelling. She is a single mother and her profession as a designer doesn't hamper the quality time she spends with her son. In her words, she is a 'hands-on mother'.

Being in the industry for four years Divya has only grown as a designer. From working with established celebrities from the film industry to experimenting with her designs and fabrics in every collection, she has carved a name for herself in the industry. In a chat with Surupasree Sarmmah, the designer spoke about her love for fashion and her journey in the industry.

When did you discover your love for fashion?

My love for fashion started when I was too young. Thanks to my mother who was always in support of handlooms of Telangana. It was a part of my growing up and I am glad that she infused that culture in me at a young age.

How did your parents react to this choice of yours?

Well, choosing this as a career option occurred to me while I was completing my MBA in New York. I thought that fashion designing would be a field I will be more interested in instead of MBA.

My father always told us, "Do whatever in life but be the number one. These words have stayed with me and have a great influence on me every day. My mother has always pushed me to highlight this rich handloom heritage that India is gifted with.

Being born and brought up in Hyderabad, does your work reflect the royal heritage of the city?

Definitely. I have a great affinity towards intricacies. Most of my collection has Mughal and Nizami influence. One can find the usage of pearls and zardozi works on my collections.

Your most memorable collection...

I wouldn't say it as a collection but, my first show was very memorable. I was an amateur then. However, that show got me growing.

Roping in a celebrity like Shilpa Shetty for my first show was overwhelming.

Every collection is dear to me and I have grown with each collection.

Tell us about your latest collection...

The Fall-Winter collection was all about using the Madhapur Tussar. It is absolutely organic and there is no use of chemicals. This unique silk is a year-round fabric which keeps one warm in winters and cool in summers.

This collection has Indo-Western silhouettes with Indian embellishments and the colour palette varies from dark shades like emerald and military greens to softer tones like blush pink.

Of the celebrities you have worked with, who do you think are the most effortless dressers?

Shilpa Shetty, Malaika Arora and Taapsee Pannu.

How would you describe Divya Reddy, the designer?

Zero patience for success. (laughs)

Your holiday look...

It has to be extremely comfortable and flowy silhouettes like a maxi dress. I am a 'no heels' person.

Three things you can't leave without...

Phone, wallet and 'kajal'.

Any advice you would like to give to aspiring designers...

This world is a big place and it has a place for everybody. Don't get intimidated by established designers or people who have been in the industry for a long time.