Alberto Ciaschini’s idea of luxury is to be yourself and not follow fashion trends.
As artistic director with Hidesign for nine of its 34 years, his new ‘Alberto Ciaschini - handcrafted by Hidesign’ line is an ode to luxury and celebrates ‘‘the spice of ‘made in Italy’ with the magic of many visits to India.’’ Having honed his design aesthetic at Trussardi, Hugo Boss and other fashion houses, he says he tries to adapt his own style while respecting the brand identity.
On every visit to India, Ciaschini spends an inordinate amount of time at Hidesign’s workshop because he likes to ‘‘follow the details for each bag.’’ Elegantly dressed, as you would expect from an Italian, Ciaschini would like the woman he designs for to be particular about what she wears, to carry everything she needs for the day in her bag, not to forget her lipstick.
Describe an Alberto Ciaschini woman.
My kind of woman is one who pays careful attention to what she wears.
She has a great job, has interest in the arts and knows the latest artist at the newest gallery.
She enjoys movies with her friends but goes shopping alone.
Selfconfidence is key - an Alberto Ciaschini woman knows what she wants.
What are the primary motifs on the bags, besides the vines? The distinctive elements in this collection are the embroideries using Swarovski elements and the luxurious Nappa leather.
Each piece is meticulously made by hand, and these styles demand long working hours.
This also defines the ‘luxury’ aspect of this collection.
I have introduced new shapes that come in two styles - clutches and evening bags - that borrow from petals and the classic briefcase.
Besides bags and clutches, what about iPad cases and other practical accessories? This being the very first luxury collection, we concentrated on small luxury pieces with fantastic embroidery and Indian detail.
We are thinking about tablet cases cases and probably footwear - surprise, surprise! What colours fascinate you this season and why? Teal green.
It is sophisticated and delicate at the same time.
It is a complex colour - muted, yet elegant.
Chanel’s 2012 bag line suggests that women love raw jewel colours.
Comment.
I agree, as some of the most beautiful colours come from jewels like emerald, ruby red, sapphire.
And there is a sense of luxury in using these gorgeous stones on the bags.
What bag shape appeals to you? If I had to choose a particular shape, it would be the square.
When can men expect a line of Hidesign luxury bags? Luxury bags for men are mostly in exotic leather.
Finding a light inside, when you open the bag.
Finally, you can find your key ! The collection will be available at select stores from April.
Priced begin at Rs 10,000.
Details: 040 23400148