Renowned fashion designer Ridhi Mehra, known for her timeless creations, recently celebrated a decade in the fashion industry. In an exclusive interview with us, she delves into her journey, her latest collection, the role of models and showstoppers, inclusivity in the Indian fashion industry, and upcoming fashion trends for the season.
A Decade of Label Ridhi Mehra
Reflecting on her 10-year journey in the fashion industry, Ridhi Mehra expresses profound emotions. She describes it as a journey filled with joy, pride, and numerous exhilarating sentiments. The label’s inception aimed to introduce affordable luxury to Indian fashion and make it accessible to the masses. After a decade, Ridhi Mehra is grateful for the brand’s success in achieving this goal. The journey has been marked by challenges and roadblocks, offering invaluable learning experiences. She looks forward to witnessing many more decades of milestones in her fashion journey.
Sustaining in the Competitive Indian Fashion Industry
Addressing the cutthroat competition in the Indian fashion industry, Ridhi Mehra emphasizes that constant innovation, hard work, and perseverance are essential to sustain oneself. She believes that these qualities are the keys to longevity in the dynamic and competitive fashion landscape.
The Era Collection: Paying Homage to Supermodels
Ridhi Mehra’s latest collection, titled “The Era,” draws inspiration from iconic supermodels of the past. She reminisces about the time when models served as perfect muses for designers and editors in the fashion industry. Over the years, she notes, the supermodel era somewhat faded in India. The collection pays homage to legendary models such as Indrani Dasgupta, Ujjwala Raut, Carol Gracias, Archana Akil Kumar, and Kanistha Dhankhar. These iconic faces of the modeling world put India on the global fashion map. Ridhi Mehra considers them the epitome of strength, grace, perseverance, and extraordinary talent.
Showstoppers and Their Significance
Discussing the importance of showstoppers in fashion shows, Ridhi Mehra emphasizes that they play a pivotal role, whether they are celebrities or models. Showstoppers embody the essence of the collection, adding allure and drama to the runway. Their presence elevates anticipation, making the runway a dynamic stage. Showstoppers generate buzz, increasing brand visibility. The choice between celebrities and models as showstoppers depends on the show’s intent: whether it aims to emphasize celebrity allure or artistic excellence.
Collaboration with Supermodels
Ridhi Mehra reveals that while she had worked with Kanishtha before, it was her first time collaborating with supermodels like Indrani, Ujjwala, Carol, and Archana. She describes the experience as immensely enjoyable, working with these graceful yet fierce women.
Inclusivity in the Indian Fashion Industry
On the topic of inclusivity in the Indian fashion industry, Ridhi Mehra acknowledges positive steps taken to feature models of diverse body types, skin tones, and backgrounds on runways. Designers increasingly recognize the importance of reflecting the diversity of their customer base. However, challenges persist, as historical beauty ideals can limit the representation of models who do not conform to those norms. The industry must balance appreciation with appropriation and ensure it uplifts cultures rather than commodifying them.
Upcoming Fashion Trends
As for upcoming fashion trends, Ridhi Mehra anticipates brighter colors like red and fuchsia, along with glistening gold and champagne, in line with the festive season. Chic and comfortable silhouettes will be prominent, featuring pantsuits, dramatic capes, and pre-draped sarees. These trends offer a glimpse of the fashion landscape for the season ahead.