A MUSTARD yellow sari bordered by ruffles hangs down delicately from a corner. Next to it is placed a matching blouse with intricate hand-embroidered details in contrasting off white. The zip enclosure of the blouse offers a clue into the store’s sartorial outlook — Indian with a modern twist. On the same side of the room are arched ceiling-to-floor windows with views of the street below, and carefully curated collections from designers like Masaba Gupta, Urvashi Joneja and Raj Shroff. Antique cupboards, ornate mirrors and baroque chandeliers complete the look. The first brick and mortar location of designer e-retailer The Open Trunk in Koramangala is chic, extravagant and comfortable, all rolled into one. “I realised that setting up an offline store was a good way to build confidence among clients who are not open to spending huge amounts on garments they are not sure will fit them right, suit their skin tone or flatter their body,” says Deepa Reddy, a former interior decorator who launched theopentrunk.com.
The vibe they are going for with the store is relaxed, friendly and informal, not rushed and busy. “We’ve curated the store in such a way that the collections are comprehensive enough to give you great options but not so vast and cluttered that one ends up feeling confused. Also the offline store is a a lot more focussed on bridal wear,” explains Deepa.
Apart from Masaba, Urvashi and Raj, the store also stocks collections from designers like Sunaina Sood (easy cotton and Chanderi tunics that can also double up as dresses), Punit Balana (indigo-dyed maxi dresses and anarkalis), Gossip (Kolhapuri wedges in neutral colours) and Jayanti Reddy (a young designer who is known for her dreamy saris and blouses).
A separate rack is dedicated to designers who are just starting out. “This is a platform for them to test the waters,” says Deepa. For now the rack is occupied by the label Ira which specialises in linen saris.
As Deepa is gearing up to head to the Lakme Fashion Week on August 16, expect some ‘fresh off the runway’ looks in just a few weeks.
Rs.1,599 upwards. At 5th Block, Koramangala. Details: 7338667241