JOIN US'I am a tailor at heart'
Being associated with the fashion industry for 22 years, designer Riyaz Gangji wanted to help people bring out their idea of fashion into what they wear. This was what inspired him to start his own label with his wife Reshma in 1995. Ever since, the couple has not looked back.
The duo were recently in the city to participate in the ‘Vogue Fashion Tour’, where they showcased their latest bridal collection.
In a chat with Surupasree Sarmmah, Riyaz talks about his journey and inspiration.
The toughest part of being a designer...
It would probably be bringing out a collection on time and satisfying our customer.
Your most creative design...
We recently created jackets with the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes. This was our way of joining the movement of getting rid of black money.
If not a designer...
I am a tailor and a designer at heart so I can’t think of being anything else.
Three things that you can’t live without...
It definitely has to be my wife, my glasses when I am travelling and my phone.
Your solution for a crisis backstage...
Backstage crises are always unpredictable, so for me, sensibility is the biggest mantra.
Any advice for aspiring designers?
Do not be temperamental. Be cool in any situation.
What inspires your designs?
Our designs are mostly inspired by Reshma and my mood. We also draw inspiration from our travel diaries, reading and movies. The best part is we get a lot of inspiration from young designers who intern with us. We sit with them and elaborate on the designs together.
Your latest collection...
Our latest collection is all about Kashmiri carpet prints on ‘lehengas’ and ‘sherwanis’. The purpose of the collection is to highlight the work of dedicated Kashmiri artisans and bring it on the ramp. We have used a lot of gothic, deep colours like maroon, khaki and beige to
name a few.
What do you think about the fashion scene in the city?
People here are fashionable and fashion indeed has a huge market in the city. However, most of it is based on online forums. We are soon going to launch a store in Bengaluru.