Time magazine hailed her as "one of the people to watch out for in international business" and Sunday Observer of London attributed her as "Donatella Versace of India". She was the first Indian designer to showcase the fineness of Indian fashion in Paris and her striking creations beautified the newsworthy personalities of the globe. Meet Ritu Beri, a beauty with brains and a designer of rare disposition...
What sea changes have you noticed in today's fashion world, especially in India?
Indian fashion industry has undergone a tremendous metamorphosis, since I joined the industry, back in 1990. Fashion was only a diversion for a small section of elite that time and was more to do with ritual dressing like a wedding, festival, etc. However, now it is more about being well dressed all the time. Today, people are more conscious about fashion; they even want to look good when they wake up in the morning, which is fantastic!
What goes on in your mind when you are creating a particular collection? What are your sources of inspiration?
I have my own style and design sensibilities. I love to explore the impossibilities, to satisfy myself and to work in an inspired mode, while designing. I am inspired by life in general. I believe that every new day comes with new ideas, inspiration and dreams.
Some designers are reaching out to a larger base of consumers with their more affordable pret line. What are your plans in this regard?
There is a lot of economics associated with the fashion business. It is about selling and generating funds to expand. Thus, only pret can help to do this. Increased disposable income amongst the Indian middleclass, greater exposure to fashion trends and the desire to look good through the day is driving the demand for pret. My latest collection at the WIFW SS '10 was a pret line and I believe that there is a big market for pret in India.
What is the role of style in fashion? What are your favourite garments to present a unique style statement?
Style is what makes fashion eternal or merely a trend. The blue jean is a perfect style statement for me.
More and more fashion weeks are happening nowadays. Is this a good trend for designers?
Fashion weeks provide a platform to young and ambitious designers to showcase their creativity. However, with so many of these happening together, the significance of fashion weeks is lost.
How are you planning to enhance the reach of your label on the retail front?
I chased my dreams and worked on ambitious projects in the past 18 years. I have been lucky to experience the world of fashion in India and abroad. Today, I continue my usual work but I enjoy the most while doing challenging projects that are worth my time. Presently, I am negotiating with certain international brands, which have shown interest in my fashion label and hopefully something interesting will happen soon.
Who according to you is the best dressed man and woman?
It is Rekha in Indian celebrities and Nicole Kidman in International celebrities.
Fashion designer, jewellery designer, author, socialist, animal rights supporter... In what new role can we see Ritu next time?
Thanks a lot for so many titles! However, as a person Ritu Beri is family and friends-oriented. She is more of a home bird, loves her own space and is very relaxed.
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