Renowned designer Tarun Tahiliani reflects on his career, the evolution of his design philosophy, and his latest projects, including a new leather bag collection.

Renowned fashion designer Tarun Tahiliani, who has been a cornerstone of the Indian fashion industry for over 35 years, recently discussed his extensive career, ongoing projects, and the challenges within the rapidly evolving fashion landscape in an interview with indianexpress.com. Tahiliani, credited with revolutionizing Indian fashion, became the first Indian designer to showcase at Milan Fashion Week in 2003. His work emphasizes traceability, cultural identity, spirituality, and sustainability, principles that he claims are at the heart of his design philosophy.

Reflecting on his journey, Tahiliani described it as an exhilarating mix of challenges and triumphs, highlighting his role in establishing India’s first multi-designer boutique and the launch of OTT Tarun Tahiliani. He stated, “My journey has been about honouring heritage while seamlessly integrating contemporary design elements.” Despite achieving significant milestones, he expressed an unwavering desire for innovation, stating, “There’s a constant drive to innovate and adapt.”

His latest initiative, the launch of OTT Tarun Tahiliani, aims to make luxury prêt accessible to a broader audience, marking a new chapter in his career. He acknowledged an evolution throughout his professional life, reflecting a deeper appreciation for tradition and the artisans who contribute significantly to the craft. He attributed much of his success to his team, emphasizing, “The journey to success belongs to all of us at TT.”

In addition to his ongoing projects, Tahiliani recently introduced a new leather bag collection available on Myntra Luxe. This collection embodies the “India modern” philosophy, merging heritage with contemporary elegance. It features six versatile styles, including a playful vanity bag and a chic sling, designed to cater to diverse lifestyles and occasions. Tahiliani expressed the intention behind the collection, stating it is meant to provide luxury as an everyday experience, with plans for limited-edition bags inspired by a blend of tradition and modern aesthetics.

When asked about the balance between comfort and appearance in his designs, Tahiliani stated that true luxury must encompass both elements, saying, “We prioritise ergonomic fits and breathable fabrics, ensuring the wearer feels as good as they look.” He noted that this philosophy is evidenced in the fluid and easy silhouettes of his garments.

Tahiliani shared insights into the dynamics of runway presentations, indicating a preference for both celebrity showstoppers and professional models. Each brings unique energy, and the choice to employ one over the other depends on the narrative of the collection.

However, he highlighted the challenges of maintaining a signature style amid global trends and advancements in technology. “Balancing innovation with a signature style is a nuanced challenge,” he said, indicating the importance of adhering to the “India Modern” aesthetic that defines his work.

Discussing the impact of digital platforms, Tahiliani remarked that OTT platforms have transformed the fashion industry, allowing designers unprecedented reach and functioning as virtual runways for creative storytelling. This shift, he believes, democratizes fashion and provides visibility to both established and emerging designers.

Inspiration for Tarun Tahiliani continues to stem from India’s rich art, architecture, and textiles, alongside the evolving lifestyles of modern Indian women. He described sustainability as critical to responsible design, advocating for both personal mindfulness in consumption and professional support for artisanal crafts.

As he transitions into the bag segment, Tahiliani noted this move was motivated by a desire to offer a more holistic fashion experience, filling a gap in the market for high-quality bags that complement his brand’s ethos. He stated that the new bag collection reflects traditional craftsmanship blended with contemporary design, aiming to resonate with consumers who appreciate both heritage and style.

Source: Noah Wire Services