Motifs from Kashmir

Leonardo da Vinci’s words, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication”, stands true for the creations of designers Osman Watali and Sajida Nain Watali.

From ‘lehengas’ and ‘anarkalis’ with crop tops to cocktail gowns and dresses, this pret and couture brand from Jammu and Kashmir is becoming synonymous with trendy traditional outfits.

In a chat with Surupasree Sarmmah, Sajida talks about their inspiration and the changing fashion scene of India.

Tell us about the origin of the label ‘Osman & Sajida’... Osman and I are law graduates from the same college. Though we never had any formal education in fashion designing, we both were passionate about it. However, our parents didn’t allow us to go ahead with it. That is when we thought of starting a small set-up in Jammu. We were still in college then. We wanted to see the response we got from people. That’s how we took our first step in 2014 and formally launched the label a year later, gradually developing it into what it is right now. 

Does your collection have motifs inspired from Kashmir?

Definitely. Kashmir has a lot of creative traditions. We do incorporate a lot
of Kashmiri motifs like ‘Kashmiri tilla’ in our works. Not just Kashmir, we also include works from different regions of the country and try to create
a fusion, like a ‘zardosi
tilla’.

Where do you gather your ideas from?

Well, we try to study the market and understand the trends and what our customers would like to wear. Since we are known for our cuts, we try to give our creations a twist of different patterns and unique cuts. We are trying our best to bring forth the heritage and tradition of Kashmir with each piece we create. 

Describe your label in three words...

Contemporary, fusion and unique.

What do you think of the fashion scene in India?

I feel today, people have become more creative and open to trying out different things, unlike a couple
of years ago, when they only followed the few standard trends set by the industry.

A trend or any kind of clothes you avoid wearing...

Ill-fitting clothes. I like to wear something that suits my personality.

Any words for aspiring designers...

Follow your dreams and be creative.