Balancing Tradition and Modernity: Archana Kochhar's Creative Process
By : Reshmi AR
Update: 2024-05-23 11:27 GMT
With her collections gracing international runways and Bollywood stars, celebrated designer Archana Kochhar discusses the creative process behind her intricate designs, and shares insights into her latest collection for Miss World 2024, her passion for India's regional and tribal arts, and the intricate craftsmanship that defines her work.
Excerpts from Archana Kochhar's exclusive conversation with Deccan Chroicle.
What inspired you to focus on India's regional and tribal arts in your Miss World 2024 collection, and how did you choose which specific arts to feature?
I have been working closely with the Make in India campaign for the last 8 years promoting different regional and tribal arts. As soon as I was told about my Miss World Collaboration, I was sure I would be integrating regional and tribal arts in India in this collection. It was important for me to showcase these arts on this global platform and to spread the message about these arts to the Miss World contestants and their countries.
Your ‘Bollywood Bling’ collection at International Fashion Week Dubai drew eyeballs. Tell what sparked the idea for this collection.
Bollywood Bling was focused at taking the opulence of Mumbai to the stage of Dubai. I have always been attracted by sequins and stones work and the glimmer they create. I was excited to capture this glitter and glamour on this global stage.
How do you balance traditional Indian craftsmanship with modern silhouettes in your designs, and what drives your creative process?
My clients aka my muses drive my creative process. I always think about what it is that they would enjoy wearing and feel their best confident selves in and that’s how I start my creative thinking process.
Every urban Indian woman today is looking for rich Indian embroidery expressed through comfortable modern easy to wear silhouettes and hence that’s the dialogue we express through our collection.
You have dressed many Bollywood stars—what's it like working with celebrities, and do you have a favorite piece or collection you have created for them?
There is always so much to learn from Bollywood stars. My biggest learning has been that they might make it look easy but they work very hard for it, whether it’s the ramp walk, interviews, shoots or even interacting with the public. My favorite collection on a movie star has to be the Banjara Collection which was adorned by Kareena Kapoor Khan.
Your designs often feature intricate hand-embroidered sequins and exquisite stone work. Can you walk us through the process of creating these intricate details, and what makes them so special?
Intricate details add the special substance which is required to create a rich garment. When a fabric is layered with hand embroidery which is meticulously done to make a one layer look—it creates a magical subtle bling and rich elegance.
How does it feel to showcase your creations on international platforms like New York Fashion Week and LFW, and what do you hope global audiences take away from your designs?
I always hope for global audiences to look at what India has to offer with great craftsmanship and design. It feels great to show a little part of India on global platforms, intriguing the audience to want to know more, learn more and see more!
What advice would you give to young designers looking to make a name for themselves in the fashion industry, especially those interested in blending traditional craftsmanship with modern styles?
While merging traditional embroidery with modern styles, it is important to account for your clients comfort and to make sure the fabrics you use work with the embroidery and the outfit draping.
Your collection catered to every woman's desire for glamour and grandeurs—what do you think is the key to making a woman feel confident and beautiful in your designs?
The key to make a woman feel confident is to make sure she is comfortable while looking stunning! It is important to have a mix of bling, textured fabrics and great silhouettes.
How did Rakul Preet come to be the showstopper for your Bollywood Bling collection, and what was it like working with her?
This is my second time working with Rakul Preet and it was amazing! I love how beautiful she looked in the red lehenga. She is truly a sweetheart and very easy to work with.