'I have a problem with boredom'

Intricate work

Having dreamt of being a designer right from school, she enrolled herself in  textile designing and pattern making while  in college. Designer Anjali Jani started her career at a time when the Indian fashion industry was not as developed as it is today. Inspired by the likes of Hemant Trivedi and Rohit Khosla, who motivated her to take the big step, she finally realised it was her calling and took off as a designer 20 years back.

Years have passed but she still continues to mesmerise her customers with her detailed works and crisp silhouettes. In a chat with Surupasree Sarmmah, Anjali talks about her latest collection, inspirations and the challenges she faced as a designer.

It has been 20 years in the industry... tell us the best part of being in this profession.

Fashion is ever-evolving which helps one to challenge themselves and come up with something different each time. I have a problem with boredom so I love that challenge. It doesn’t allow me to be confined to one particular thing for long. Apart from just apparel designing, there are other avenues, like accessory designing, to explore.

If not a designer...

I have always been inclined towards art, so I would have  been in architecture or did something with fine arts.

A designer you always wanted to work with...

When I was in college I really wanted to work with Giorgio Armani and Valentino. But after I came back to India, Manish Malhotra was someone I wanted to work with; a dream I have now realised.

Your style of work...

I like using handlooms but since a few years I have developed a fondness for certain silhouettes that act like a bridge between the Indian embroideries and western
silhouettes.

Who has been your inspiration?

While growing up, I always admired the works of Giorgio Armani. Alberta Ferretti and John Galliano are other two designers who have inspired me in a huge way.

Tell us a bit about your latest collection...

‘Vrindavan’, my Spring-Summer collection, brings back the tales of Radha and Krishna. I have kept the colour palette pastel with a combination of blues, blacks and reds that represent  the shades of Radha, Krishna and their passion.

Handloom silks like dupion, raw silk, linen, muga-tussar and jute silk are the fabrics used in the collection. These are embellished with a blend of thread work and zardozi embroidery that brings the flora and fauna of Vrindavan to life. Jackets, peplum tops, ‘dhoti’ pants, ‘sharara’ pants with cropped tops and draped dresses are the popular outfits of this collection.

Challenges you have faced in your journey...

I started my career at a time when the fashion industry in India was just evolving. That was the time, when it was not a primary thing to always be visible. However, today, there is a need to be present and showcase one’s work. We, as designers, have to keep a constant connection  with people.

Three thing you would like to have if you are deserted in an island...

Definitely something that will keep me warm, any hydrating drink and someone to talk to.