The earthy flavour

Subtle hues

Sustainable fashion is what he believes in and indigenous textile is what he prefers working with. Passionate about all things handmade, designer Soham Dave works towards highlighting the different local weaves and handlooms of India.
     
Keeping in mind the urban fashion trends, Soham has worked on contemporary silhouettes like dresses, jumpsuits, palazzos and long kurtis. All his designs have an earthy feel as he likes to keep the silhouettes natural and organic. In a chat with Surupasree Sarmmah, the designer talks about his latest collection and more.

How did the idea of becoming a fashion designer come to you?
After I completed my Electrical Engineering, I took a break for a couple of years as I was not clear about what I really wanted to do. I was always a creatively-inclined person and before I knew, I launched my label in 2011. Entering the fashion designing industry was an unplanned journey.

What do you as a designer keep in mind while working on a collection?
For me the focus is on textile rather than the silhouettes. Comfort and texture of the fabric are the two most important things.

Your forte...
I work primarily with womenswear, but I am certainly looking forward to working with menswear in future. My designs are contemporary in nature. However, I focus onbringing forth a different Indian craft and weave every season.

Your favourite material...
I love working with blended fabrics. Cotton and a blend of cotton silks and silks are my favourites.

If not a designer...
I would have moved to the US and pursued engineering.

Five must-haves for the season...
Easy tunics for every day use, oversized shirts, kaftans, a kimono dress and a pair of straight pants.

Tell us about your most unique collection.
It was called the ‘Dona Collection’, where I had reinvented the technique of ‘ajrakh’. It is one of the most loved collections till date.

Three must-haves in your wardrobe...
A khadi shirt, a pair of khadi pants and a cotton scarf.

Tell us about your latest collection...
The Spring-Summer ’17 Collection is all about lines.

I have worked on ‘khadi’ from West Bengal and have concentrated on the weaves of the region.

Handwoven fabrics, stripes and checkered prints are the highlight of the collection. Coal and black are the colours I have focussed on.

Any advice you would like to give aspiring designers...
Try to be yourself and create something authentic. Being true to yourself is the first step to success.