Fashion Tips

Ritu Beri, a graduate of India’s National Institute of Fashion Technologies, an affiliate of New York’s F.I. T., is one of the foremost fashion designers of India. A protégé of master embroiderer Francois Lesage, Ritu launched her own fashion label in India 16 years ago to rave reviews that haven’t stopped because. Since then, she has dressed Hindi movie superstars such as Rani Mukherjee and Preity Zinta, and also consists of former President Bill Clinton and Hollywood actresses Nicole Kidman and Andie McDowell on her client roster. After effective international showings in Beijing, Morocco, New York and Washington, Ritu was India’s 1st designer to show her luxe collection in Paris in 1998. Regarded as 1 of the 50 most critical men and women in India, Ritu Beri is down-to-earth, quite approachable and a pleasure to chat with. Ritu took some time to chat with Nirvana Woman this summer. Here are some her thoughts.

How do you believe your style differs from other designers in India and abroad?

My designs represent my journey as a human being, of all the influences I have had in my life—and most importantly, India and its cultural heritage. I then interpret this in my clothes.

How has designing changed for you since when you began?

The Indian fashion industry has undergone a tremendous metamorphosis. Fashion was only a diversion for a modest elite. Initially, fashion was more to do with ritual dressing, like a wedding (or) festival. But now it’s more about being properly dressed all the time.

Where do you go for your inspiration?

I believe that every single new day comes with new suggestions, aspirations and dreams. I take inspiration from life and issues/individuals around me, and like any other form of art, it needs (a huge) amount of research…and it’s a constant conquest to achieve some thing beyond the ordinary.

Which of your designs are you immensely proud of?

I am proud of all my designs. But my initial line, which I showcased at my graduation, referred to as “The Maharanis of India,” has been my favorite collection so far, for sentimental reasons. Yet another collection which is very close to my heart is the 1 I showcased at the Buddha Bar in Paris. But my favorite is my last collection I presented at the Lido in Paris.

How did you get into designing?

I come from a defense background [Ritu’s father was in the Indian army]. Army parties are really formal, structured and British in their approach to dressing. The environment encourages you to be fastidious about your appearance. My mother is gorgeous and stunningly dressed. I bear in mind as a child, she lit up the army evenings with not just her looks, but also (with) her intrinsic style. I always loved to watch her dressing up. Her pastel chiffons floated around her, and her (elegant) pearls and diamonds had been her trademarks. My father, too, is an immaculate dresser and has a excellent sense of color. With such fine examples, I had to be influenced, and I ended up wanting to dress up everybody like that.

How have Indian designers moved up in international fashion?

Indian designers are at a nascent stage as far as the international market is concerned. The fashion design business in India is only about two decades old, (and) we have achieved really a lot in such a short time. Our designers are continually showcasing in various fashion capitals of the world, but for a designer to be taken seriously in the international marketplace, he/she should be consistent in showcasing the collection and be around each and every season.

Who are your favorite celebrity clients?

Rekha (the Bollywood actress) is my favorite celebrity client—she is a true style icon.

What suggestions would you give upcoming designers?

My only guidance would be: Make the finest use of all the opportunities that come your way and learn as considerably as considerably as you can. But often be original.

What role do accessories carry in fashion creation?

Ritu Beri Style carries a lot of accessories. I think fashion is not just restricted to clothes. It goes deeper into beauty, hair, footwear and accessories. Accessories add that extra dash of confidence that reflects on the personality and which I feel is more important than just a stunning outfit.

Your work has moved from couture to interiors and way of life designs. What are your future plans?

Following becoming in the fashion business for over 16 years now and having showcased my collection in virtually all the major fashion capitals of the world, I want to take fashion beyond clothes and accessories into everyday life. “FireFly” was my first step in that direction, and I am working on some much more points, (which) I shall be sharing with you soon.

What suggestions would you give to the Nirvana Woman, a person living outside of India, but with tastes in the eclectic and chic, as high-end couture?

I think that one need to usually dress to feel your self. The outfit should make you feel comfortable and reflect your personality. One’s own style is quite crucial. The dress for this season is intimate, personal and actual.