New York-based designer Bibhu Mohapatra and actress Aditi Rao Hydari spoke about creating own style statement and what luxury truly means when it comes to fashion at a summit here.
The duo were present at the 2016 edition of Robb Report’s Limited Edition Luxury Summit here on Saturday.
Mohapatra, whose creations have often been worn by the US First Lady Michelle Obama, said: “It’s all about finer details, being classy, and appreciating the idea of craft and heritage and the study behind it.”
Would he also like to create something for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’
“He’s already so well put together! He knows his style statement and stands by it. But, I don’t mind adding a little spice to it,” said Mohapatra.
The designer, who has roots in India, also feels that the privilege of acknowledging what luxury means to you, truly defines your style.
“Fashion became more vivid after I left India. I started looking at my history and heritage as luxury, as I built my brand in New York six years back. Having said that, India is in my veins, I don’t have to particularly ‘think’ India while designing,” he said.
Aditi, who was born with a silver spoon and later left that behind to carve a niche for herself in showbiz, said that luxury lies in the finer details – be it the softest lining of your garments or the fine engraving on a leather accessory.
And while Mohapatra credited numerous unnamed artisans whose craft go behind his design, Aditi reminisced her regal heirlooms from Hyderabad.
They both agreed on the fact that memories create bespoke pieces for everyone, and not necessarily an expensive piece.
“I treasure my mother’s embroidered pieces that I still have in my studio. She is the one who taught me to sew,” the designer shared.
Aditi, on the other hand, talked about a Basra pearl and uncut diamond necklace her grandfather gifted her years ago.
She also revealed how she thought having cash in her wallet was true luxury these days, while Mohapatra hinted that he would love to set up a small unit in India where he would like to work with local artisans for his ‘Made in India’ dream.
