The unmistakable classic touch

Fashion designer Raghavendra Rathore is known for his classic style. But lately, he has been merging classic into modern to bring out a unique fashion trend.

According to him, fashion evolves season after season and reflects the changes in the society.

Also an entrepreneur, he is popular for his ‘bandhgala’ jackets and Jodhpur designs. He is also known for diversifying his business into interior design, jewellery, and multimedia. Born and raised in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, he is a member of the royal clan of Jodhpur. Jodhpur has played a huge role in all his collections. He has always gone back to his roots and used the royal classic in modern avatar.

Recently in the City for an event, he exhibited his designs with elaborate embroidery work and bright colours. “Each year, the challenge for our design teams is to bring out a relic from the past on the runway, ‘bandhgalas’, Jodhpuri breeches and now it was the turn of the dhoti, the fluid-flowing dhoti, paired with the tailored classical ‘bandhgala’ and the ‘bandhgala achkan’. Adding a dash of vibrant colours and rich stockpile of fabrics give the wedding collection an extremely festive and classic feel.”

He adds, “The patriotic sense of style has brought the ‘bandhgala’ jacket and the ‘bandhgala’ waistcoat in the mainstream of Indian fashion. Linen and natural fabrics in classic black and grey are sustainable and the brand’s preferred choice.” What inspired him to opt for ‘bandhgala’? He says, “It is always inspiring to look into the past and bring out the best in a more contemporary way that can add value to the customers’ wardrobe and lifestyle in the present.”

About Bengaluru’s fashion, Raghavendra says, “Bengaluru is a city based on values that are built over years of social confidence. The understanding of culture and the degree of subdued elegance implies a very intelligent customer. The customers here understand the value of investment and are not so affected by the winds of change on runways beyond the region.”

Raghavendra says being under-dressed, rather than being overdressed, is a virtue. “Explore the possibility of customisation of your wardrobe. It is wise to have clothes made for you that are not generic but have an individualistic style that inherently becomes yours. Be confident in what you wear, stick to the classics.”

His advice to young and aspiring designers is, “Stay true to your nature, find what makes you so special that you can repackage for your consumer.”