This young Bengalurean showcased her designs on the ramps in Colombo with her collection at the International Graduate Fashion Spectacle 2018 that happened this year. Ayushi Kothari, a student of the JD Institute of Fashion Technology was the flagbearer at the event that saw students from around the world participating. The design student was thrilled at the international exposure, and the wealth of experience she imbibed.
Sometimes in life, things do not go as planned. Taking time off to decide what to do in life led this young girl towards a career in fashion. “Being a fashion designer was never really planned. I was very fascinated by the glam world. I really liked how people styled and spoke so much only through their clothes and accessories,” says Ayushi about what fashion means to her, adding, “Fashion to me is being comfortable and to be able to express what you are without words. So basically for me it’s a lifestyle.”
This decision to enter the fashion and glam world was supported by her mother, who she considers her best friend. Ayushi adds, “She always understood what I desired to become, and has always supported my decision of becoming a designer.” For Ayushi, designers like Alessandro Michele and Manish Arora are her idols. She explains, “I love the work they do. Recently, Manish Arora made a garment that looks like a painting from far, but in reality, it was made entirely out of embroidery.” The International Graduate Fashion Spectacle 2018 in Colombo was a show that featured the designs of students from around the world, including nine local graduates. She adds, “We had to showcase our designs there with only five garments. We showcased the collection in front of the French Embassy. It was a platform to show our work to students from various other cultures.” Ayushi’s college played a huge part in this. She showcased her Luxury Business Chic collection which had already won an award in India. She adds, “Everyone really appreciated the design. I also got nominated for the The Best Design Collection Award.” Along with Ayushi, students from all over like Paris, Hungary, Berlin, Bangladesh, Pakistan and of course Sri Lanka were also participating.
Ayushi now has her hands full with a collection she is working on. This avid belly and hip-hop dancer adds, “I am going to continue doing women’s wear but I have not really thought about what as I think I need a little more mentoring. I am working on a portfolio too.”
