The designer and his muse: Gaurang Shah, Hyderabad
Who do you consider your muse?
“Every woman on the planet is my muse. I am inspired by the charm of a woman wearing a traditional sari. Kirron Kher is definitely my favourite muse; it is very pleasing to see fashion icons like Sonam Kapoor and Vidya Balan keep coming back to pick up outfits from my collection. The appreciation for handlooms has grown over the years for its beauty and longevity. The jamdani weave gives traditional Indian fabrics an irresistible look both in terms of its color, texture and body comfort.
Has her look been inspired by something specific?
Every creation from my design wardrobe is inspired by tradition of India. Like the Taj Mahal, Temples of South of India, Panchatantra Stories and of course the nature around us especially the flowers and trees. I realized, early on, that the technique I follow (jamdani) the word ‘Impossible’ does not exist. Thanks to my weavers and the challenge I throw at them season after season.
Describe in detail the garments worn by the muse?
Kirron Kher admired the work in my ‘Ardhangini’ collections which was an unseen twist of Kanjeevaram with kalamkari. Vidya Balan loved our ‘Kalpavriksha’, she said after wearing that she never knew that you could blend organza with kanjeevarams. Sonam Kapoor calls our creations inventive and timeless. Sonam’s khadi Anarkali with Kanjeevaram border and matching Kanjeevaram dupatta was inspired by 16th century temple art.
Gaurang is a self-taught designer who learnt on the job at his family store. He believes that bringing back happiness in the weaver communities is the true fabric of culture and revival of tradition. He’s showcased his collections as part of the Gen Next at the Lakme Fashion Week as well as at the recent IIFA awards held in Kaula Lampur.
