Fresh work on the runway

Futuristic designs

Despite being just a year and a half old in the fashion industry,  Bengaluru-based designer Pooja Verma has many awards and accolades in her basket. She recently made her debut and also introduced her label in the Bangalore Fashion Week, with her extensive line of comfortable and futuristic clothing.

The collection features  London streetwear and Pooja says that in the long run she looks forward to bringing international fashion to the Indian market and making it more feasible to people. In a chat with Surupasree Sarmmah, the young designer talks about her first creation, her inspiration and more.

How did you develop an interest in the fashion industry?

I have always been into styling  and had a creative bend of mind since childhood. When I used to see people walking on the streets or travelling in the train I noticed them and the details of their outfit. It used to amaze me to see how a simple detail on a shirt, dupatta or fabric can make it extremely unique. Apart from this, I am very good with different techniques like pattern making and draping. I remember how I used to take my mother’s sari and drape in different styles. Seeing this, my parents knew I would be into fashion. I made them proud I believe.

The first outfit that you created...

It was a skirt I made with my mother’s sari when I was 10 or 11 years old. I stitched it somehow and made a skirt out of it. However, it didn’t fit my waist, so I was wearing it on my neck (laughs).

If not a designer...

I can’t think of anything else. Designer was what I always wanted to be. Though my parents wanted me to be an engineer and they even sent me to  IIT, but I never really concentrated, as I was sure, I had another option — to be a designer. It was tough to convince them, though they knew my interest. They were scared of this field, but eventually they agreed. However, I had to prove myself to them and work really hard.

Your other interests apart from designing...

I love dancing, painting and collecting different things like fabrics, textures and different kinds of materials.

The best part about this profession...

You can wear anything and nobody will judge you. They think it might be in fashion (laughs).

What inspires your designs?

My work is very much inspired by different kinds of historical buildings and architectures from around the world.  

How was your experience at the fashion week?

Bangalore Fashion Week is really close to my heart, I have been living in the city for past one year. I witnessed the fashion week the last two seasons and thought if other designers can do, I can make it through too as I was already working for international brands like Armani. I couldn’t have found a better platform to launch my label than this. It gives encouragement to young designers like me to showcase their talent which are creative and fresh. There is still so much for me to grow.