Hyderabad’s Asmita Marwa who has carved a niche for herself when it comes to sustainable fashion, has revisited one of her favourites — mul — after eight years. “It is a classic fabric and it never goes out of style! Hence I decided to go back to it for this year’s summer collection,” says the celebrity designer, known for dressing the likes of Rana Daggubati, Rakul Preet and even Ranveer Singh. As we walk into her impossibly quaint studio in Jubilee Hills overlooking the trees and hills in the distance, the first thing we notice is the row of her latest ensembles in pristine ivory and the apt word to describe them, we think, is timeless. She sources the mul from Gujarat, which she tells us is her go-to place to source indigenous handlooms.
Circle of power
These designs easily transcend seasons and the best bit about them are that they are fluid, and as light as feather. The limited prêt collection has bindu motifs and tie-and-dye work that adds a hint of bohemian appeal to the kaftan-like dresses perfect for brunch or beaches. “The bindu or the circular symbol is an integral part of my design philosophy. I consider it quite powerful, like the beginning of the universe,” says Asmita as she walks around her studio, showing us all the different ways one can style it. “You can choose to belt these up, pin them where you wish or maybe wear knot it up,” says the designer who is also known in the city for her styling prowess. The men too can look forward to some summer-friendly shirts with white polka dots, in white and jacquard woven shirts in cotton.
Patchwork perfect
Asmita also shares with us that she is ready with a new line of jackets that are inspired by tribes from around the world — Burma, Afghanistan, Gujarat and the Banjaras closer home. Known for her earlier Kalamkari and Opera jackets with antique brocade borders, she has ensured that no two pieces are alike as she has used embroidered patchwork which adds to the beauty of the pieces. “I picked up inspiration along the way as I travelled and for me, these jackets are no less than art,” says the designer, signing off.
Rs 10,000 onwards.
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