<p>Since his childhood, designer Manoj Agarrwal was inclined towards fashion. He used old garments to stitch a pant and shirt for himself. This passion grew stronger over the years and today he is one of the most celebrated designers of India. <br /><br />Manoj is known for his impeccable craftsmanship with fine detailing in hand embroidery and a sharp eye for details. His style of work speaks of vibrant silhouettes and fine cuts. <br /><br />In a chat with Surupasree Sarmmah, the designer, who recently showcased his latest collection at Lakme Fashion Week, gets candid about his work and more. <br /><br />Tell us about the collection that you showcased at the Lakme Fashion Week...<br /><br />The collection is called ‘Jodhaa’, which is inspired by the royal architecture of the Rajput and Mughal dynasties. To keep the tradition alive, I have included a red dupatta in all the outfits of the collection. However, the colours I have used are fresh and apt for a modern-day bride. Motifs like swans, peacocks, curvilinear pillars with brackets, pottery and semi-circular domes are some of the highlights of the collection. <br /><br />You work primarily with womenswear. Any plans of starting a menswear line too?<br /><br />Yes, of course. In fact, we have already started and it will be launched soon. <br /><br />One of the most challenging outfits you have created...<br /><br />To be honest, most of my designs are challenging. There is a lot of research and hard work that goes into getting the final output. There is a different experience attached with each piece.<br /><br />What do you keep in mind while working on a collection?<br /><br />I follow the F3 formula, which is best of fabrics, best of fitting and best of finishing. <br /><br />Your dream design is...<br /><br />I will be incorporating my dream designs in my next collection. I want to include the miniature paintings of Jaipur and replicate the same outfits that the kings and queens used to wear. There will be a lot of layers, a play of brocade and organzas. I want to recreate an era. <br /><br />Your wardrobe staples...<br /><br />Jeans, white shirt, watch, shoes, glasses and perfumes. <br /><br />A celebrity you would like to work with? <br /><br />Actually, there are two. Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh. Both of them are extremely versatile and can carry any outfit with grace and confidence. They are always comfortable about experimenting. <br /><br />Any words of advice to young designers...<br /><br />Never forget your roots and always keep your tradition alive.</p>
<p>Since his childhood, designer Manoj Agarrwal was inclined towards fashion. He used old garments to stitch a pant and shirt for himself. This passion grew stronger over the years and today he is one of the most celebrated designers of India. <br /><br />Manoj is known for his impeccable craftsmanship with fine detailing in hand embroidery and a sharp eye for details. His style of work speaks of vibrant silhouettes and fine cuts. <br /><br />In a chat with Surupasree Sarmmah, the designer, who recently showcased his latest collection at Lakme Fashion Week, gets candid about his work and more. <br /><br />Tell us about the collection that you showcased at the Lakme Fashion Week...<br /><br />The collection is called ‘Jodhaa’, which is inspired by the royal architecture of the Rajput and Mughal dynasties. To keep the tradition alive, I have included a red dupatta in all the outfits of the collection. However, the colours I have used are fresh and apt for a modern-day bride. Motifs like swans, peacocks, curvilinear pillars with brackets, pottery and semi-circular domes are some of the highlights of the collection. <br /><br />You work primarily with womenswear. Any plans of starting a menswear line too?<br /><br />Yes, of course. In fact, we have already started and it will be launched soon. <br /><br />One of the most challenging outfits you have created...<br /><br />To be honest, most of my designs are challenging. There is a lot of research and hard work that goes into getting the final output. There is a different experience attached with each piece.<br /><br />What do you keep in mind while working on a collection?<br /><br />I follow the F3 formula, which is best of fabrics, best of fitting and best of finishing. <br /><br />Your dream design is...<br /><br />I will be incorporating my dream designs in my next collection. I want to include the miniature paintings of Jaipur and replicate the same outfits that the kings and queens used to wear. There will be a lot of layers, a play of brocade and organzas. I want to recreate an era. <br /><br />Your wardrobe staples...<br /><br />Jeans, white shirt, watch, shoes, glasses and perfumes. <br /><br />A celebrity you would like to work with? <br /><br />Actually, there are two. Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh. Both of them are extremely versatile and can carry any outfit with grace and confidence. They are always comfortable about experimenting. <br /><br />Any words of advice to young designers...<br /><br />Never forget your roots and always keep your tradition alive.</p>
