‘There is immense love for handcrafted products in both India & Russia’
About showcasing their collection at MFW, Paras says, “We specialise in hand crafted and bespoke couture and occasion wear ensembles which cater to a global audience. Our collections are retailed through leading boutiques in Europe, US and Middle East. We, however, never showcased or retailed in Russia and the prospect of introducing our label here excites us. There is immense love for handcrafted products in both India & Russia. The show by Indian designers at BRICS+ Fashion summit was very well received. The exposition is a start to sustained dialogue and exchange of our strengths and we hope to build inroads into couture boutiques in Russia. Through the showcase of contemporary collections we also breakaway from the pre-existing stereotype about Indian fashion.”
Adds Nitin, “I was in Moscow for a trade fair in 2017 and had received a good response. Few buyers and showrooms had expressed their desire to see my clothes on the catwalk then. So, I was keen to show here since then and was waiting for the right opportunity. When I came on the ramp to take a bow, I heard people shouting ‘bravo! bravo!’ It was a great feeling. This was the first time they witnessed what we can do with our skill and aesthetics. How we evolve from here season after season will be the key factor in penetrating this market and I know they will be waiting and watching what we present next season.”
Russia as an emerging market for Indian fashion brands
Since Russia is a relatively new market for Indian fashion designers, there is a lot to be explored. Designers here say that they are also looking at collaborations with Russian brands and fashion labels. “Moscow (and Russia) has always been an active consumer of fashion. Indian fashion is already stocked at many global fashion destinations and widely visible on red carpets & social media. We look forward to welcoming Russian designers to similar Indian platforms. Mutual symbiosis between the two countries has already been well documented,” says Paras.
Nitin says that fashion will significantly contribute in the strengthening of India-Russia ties. “Designers from both countries will be showcasing their work in Moscow, Mumbai and Delhi in the coming years. I am sure collaborations will follow if we continue showcasing here,” he adds.