KOCHI: Getting a pair of stilettoes in the door of the fashion industry is rather a difficult task. Amid the growing number of designers that pass out of prestigious fashion design institutes, keeping up with trends, staying relevant and walking hand-in-hand with tech is difficult, yes, but designer Raj Shroff stays unaffected by these. “I started really young, in fact I sold the first line of my clothes in Bengaluru at the age of 22,” Raj shares. Having observed his mother’s fashion choices, it was no surprise when he chose to tread the path lined with fabrics.
Having grown internationally, Raj has done it all. From fashion weeks in India to the Net-a-Porter in France and shows in Seoul, Columbo, Germany and Miami, Raj has evolved much as a designer. And what excites him? “I love the joy of creating clothes. And seeing the client’s happiness after they adorn my clothes is unexplainable,” Raj shares. “We’re constantly conscious about our appearance. Getting to share such vulnerable moments with other people who place their complete trust in you is indeed precious to a designer,” he says.
Ravage, Raj Shroff’s label was launched back in 2004. Replete with asymmetrical cuts, the garments have a rustic, whimsical appearance that draws an energy from the erstwhile days. “Ravage is an interpretation of India’s deep-rooted culture. Showcasing contemporary India, the garments add personality to the person who adorns it,” says Raj. The designer feels that Indian women have evolved and become individualistic.
Nevertheless, Raj acknowledges that being a designer is equivalent to the cycle of life, where one is restless and delighted at every aspect of life when young. “As one grows, a certain sense of calm settles in. Mayflower, my pret band, converses the same. I wanted a label that would keep me excited in parallel,” he informs. And what distinguishes Ravage from Mayflower? “Ravage is textile-based. It celebrates natural fabrics. Mayflower is a quirky brand for young, trendy women. It is global and easier on the pocket, in comparison to Ravage,” he shares.
The designer is all set to exhibit his labels in Kerala. Joining Raj Shroff, is jewellery designer, Dhwani Bansal for the tete-a-tete, at the French Toast in Kochi on October 27 from 10 am to 7 pm. When questioned about her choice of designers, Tracy Thomas, organiser, says, “Keeping the tourist season in mind, the collections are easy to wear and comfortable. Every piece in his collection is unique. Dhwani’s line is Indian with a modern, contemporary twist. While Raj’s designs are Indo-western.”