With a family business that was focussed on men’s tailoring for years, it was natural that designer Dhruv Vaish took to garment designing at a young age. He switched to fashion designing from BCom honours to do justice to his abilities and passion.

He launched his label in 2003 and since then there is no looking back for this innovative designer. He will be showcasing his latest collection at the ‘Amazon Fashion Week — Fall Winter 2017’ for the second time and is quite excited.

In a chat with Surupasree Sarmmah, Dhruv talks about the men’s fashion scene in the country and the challenges he faces as a designer.

Your thoughts on trends in men’s fashion in India right now...
Today men are willing to explore different styles as much as women. They are no more restricted to blacks, greys and blues. I have experimented with colours like teal, salmon and terracotta and it is becoming extremely popular with men.

Tell us about your latest collection...
The collection is called ‘Noire’ and in it I have experimented with black. Daring patterns in different fabrics and weaves are the highlight of the collection. The silhouettes are clean, chic and easy-to-wear. Plaids, bold checks, and abstract graphics are what I have worked on thoroughly in materials like tweeds and wool flannels. which give a luxurious touch.

What challenges have you have faced till now?
There are limited things that one can work on when it comes to menswear. I have to work along a fine line to get that perfect silhouette. To balance the commercial and creative part of curating a menswear line is the biggest challenge.

One advice that changed your life..
My father once told me ‘whatever you do, give it your best or don’t do it at all’. This has really changed the way I look at and
approach life.

Five must-haves in your summer wardrobe...
Cotton trousers, linen jacket, shorts, a white cotton shirt and a pair of blue denims.

An advice for aspiring designers...
Follow your gut feeling. It takes time for people to recognise one’s talent. But everything will fall in place at the right time.