Haute pursuit

From fashion designer to author is the next step forward for fashion diva Ritu Beri who was noticed on the catwalks of Paris more than two decades ago. As she completes 25 years in the industry, Ritu captures her life experiences in two forthcoming books — Fire Of A Restless Mind and Designs Of A Restless Mind that are an attempt to portray her own personal journey through the dizzy world of fashion and tracing the evolution of the fashion industry in India.

Asked what inspired her to turn into an author, the designer says, “This is certainly one of life’s full circle moments for me. Life is my source of passion, and has gifted me some of the most rewarding experiences. It was high time for me to share these experiences through my writings, and I decided to pen down these two books.”

These books are a firsthand portrayal of the various experiences that Ritu had throughout her journey in the industry. “People know my name, but not my story. They know what I have done, but not what I have gone through. My books are based on a true story… my story,” she says.

The author believes that every experience has taught her something about life. “I had a deep desire to share the miracle with the readers, that happened to me… my life. My designs represent my journey as a human being, a representation of all the influences I have had in my life, most importantly in India and Paris. I have learnt a lot and evolved as a designer, and even more as a person.” Both books, the designer says, are “relevant to the contemporary fashion world.” “Seeing a painting, hearing a musical piece, entering a well- done home, visiting Paris — all have inspired me in many different ways.”

Ritu says writing the books has been a long journey that took her about two years to complete, but it is an experience that she likes to cherish. She says, “I enjoy exploring impossibilities. Writing is a passion for me.” Despite her professional and family commitments, Ritu says she is able to write because — “I’m a disciplined person. Be it designing, keeping a check on my diet, doing workout or writing books — I like to maintain a disciplined lifestyle.”

“Books transport you to another world, and add a new meaning to your existence,” believes Ritu. She is an avid reader and likes reading books across genres. “The Fountainhead was a life-changing experience for me. It taught me to follow my own vision and not conform to the expectations of others. The Secret taught me the importance of positivity. I learnt from Alchemist that if we want something truly, the entire universe gets together to make it happen for us.

The Bhagwad Geeta taught me to be optimistic and not repent about my past or worry about the future. French Women don’t get Facelifts inspired me to have a French woman’s attitude — to be infused with inherent style and beauty,” she says and adds, “I am an emotional person and I like to follow my heart, so my next book will be The Heart of A Restless Mind.”