Designer Divya Sheth experiments with Ikat

In an attempt to carve a niche in the sustainable and handwoven fashion front, Kolkata-based designer Divya Sheth started her label in the year 2014. Since then, she has dressed the likes of actresses Sonam Kapoor, Deepika Padukone and Dia Mirza. Earlier, she had made a name for herself while working with Kalamkari weaves.

However, for her latest collection titled ‘Ikat Crossover’, she travelled all the way to Odisha.“In order to explore Ikat, I made my way to the villages of Bargarh and Nuopatna and met artisans there,” says the 38-year-old self-taught designer.

The rustic edge
During her stint in Odisha, she was fascinated by the tribal way of styling and decided to incorporate that in her latest designs with a contemporary twist. Consistent with the Ikat colour palette, one can spot ensembles in indigo, white and black. Expect to find a host of experimental silhouettes like choga – long cloaks – paired with fold up salwars. Apart fromthat, one can also shop for long-crouched trousers
and jumpsuits.

Of myths and nature
The designer, who studied fashion photography at National Institute of Fashion Technology, Delhi does not restrict herself to a singular influence. Apart from ‘Ikat Crossover’, which is available online, two of her other lines are now available at multi-designer stores in Hyderabad. For her collection titled, ‘Nijmandir’ (available at Deccan Story in Hyderabad), she goes back to the myths. This collection is a sartorial depiction of the celebration of Pichwais of the Nathdwara, which illustrate the life and times of Lord Krishna. Her inspirations are as varied as her silhouettes. In contrast to the grand look of the former collection, ‘Shizen’, (available at Ogaan) is fit for the summers as it has oversized clothing. For this she has crafted a unique ensemble called kurmono – a mix of the kurta as well as the kimonos. Comfortable and chic, the kurmonos are crafted in silk, organza and khadi.