A trip through the history of Muga silk

Assam-based designer, Sweety Sharma started her career in 2007. After a few years, she went on to work with Abhijit Singha, a leading choreographer and fashion designer in the North East fashion industry.

Her experience working with him helped her to look at opportunities closely. Apart from being a designer, she is also associated with Mega Entertainment as their official designer.

Having been featured in 'Asian Designer Week' last year, Sweety has curved a niche for herself in the industry. In a chat with Surupasree Sarmmah, the designer talks about her classy designs, latest collection and her inspiration.

Your designs are often said to celebrate the magnum opus of North East's traditional weave through your garments...

I have always focused on the traditional fabric - 'Muga' silk. This is a rich fabric and not many people know about this silk, I want to showcase it in an international platform through my garments and designs. In Assam, 'Muga' is considered as precious as gold.

Tell us about your latest collection...

My latest collection is all about showcasing the history of 'Muga' -- from tree to the fabric. This history is depicted on the fabric through my handwork. Though many designers have used this silk but nobody has ever showcased the history per se. I have kept colours natural as this fabric is undyeable.

Who do you look up to in the industry?

It has to be Manish Malhotra and Neeta Lulla.

Where do you get most of your ideas from?

Most of my inspiration comes from nature and the weavers of Assam. Their hard work is not known to many or perhaps forgotten soon after the fabric hits the market. No one is aware of what goes behind the production of the rich fabric. I, with my work, have tried my best to showcase their effort and empower these women.

One of the most stylish red carpet outfits you have spotted recently?

I really liked Priyanka Chopra's pink gown she wore for an awards show last year.

Describe your designs in four words...

Unique, natural, wearable and stylish.

A popular personality you want to dress up one day...

Sushmita Sen. She has a great personality and that reflects in anything she wears.

What is your word of advice for young designers?

Being patient in the industry will definitely bear fruit. Work hard and find your inspiration in the smallest of things around you.