CHENNAI: After going solo for several years and designing for well-known brands, designer duo Fibin Raj and Imaad have collaborated to introduce their brand Fibin and Imaad.
Throwing their design studio open to public recently at the Boat Club, the designs that marked the launch of their brand were inspired by Moroccon fashion.
Wearing outfits from their creation Xnamed Impression Le Maroc, models sashayed down the ramp in mermaid -shaped gowns and ship dresses, the garments blending contemporary patterns with traditional fabric and avant-garde designs. A lookbook with creations of the duo by photographer Venket Ram was also launched at the event.
“We did a lot of experimentation with fabrics and designs before churning out the pieces in our collection. This in turn had clients approaching us from various states,” says Fibin.
“For instance, those with an urge to experiment went for the peek-a-boo patterns and those with a Victorian taste opted for the ball gowns.” Similar to Impression Le Maroc, other clothes in the brand will focus on avant garde costumes, especially for children and women.
“Kids these days are very particular about what they want. They want to be at their stylish best,” he adds. He also adds that their outfits for men will emphasise more on texture and style. Imaad, who is an experienced hand at designing men’s apparel will contribute more towards the men’s line. “Overall, we will design according to specifications of our clients in our design tank,” Fibin adds.
The designer, who is also a professor at the National Institute of Fashion Technology, Chennai, has almost 10 years of experience in not only designing and teaching, but also in retail. He has met international forecasters and gathered relevant exposure before starting his own brand.
Now, as he mentors students, Fibin says his own experiences not only helps him design better but his pupils too.
“In fact, when they witnessed the launch of Impression Le Maroc, they were stunned and impressed at the the silhouettes. And even days after the launch, during their regular classes, they had many questions about the designs,” he adds.