We love the cutting edge

Follow us:WhatsappFacebookTwitterTelegram.cls-1{fill:#4d4d4d;}.cls-2{fill:#fff;}Google NewsAlumni of NIFT, Pankaj & Nidhi Ahuja, are behind the exciting label which has found critical and commercial success since its launch in 2006.They have bagged awards like International Apparel Federation Award, 2011, Elle Style Awards for the Best Debut in 2009 and the Best Women’s prêt-a-porter in 2010 in the seven years of their career.Unlike last years that had a host of seasoned designers like Rohit Bal in the finale, this year new comers have been given a break.  This is the first time Pankaj-Nidhi are on the Lakmé Fashion Week.City Express asks the designers on their journey of struggle, their collection and much more.■ Both of you will be presenting the coveted Lakmé Grand Finale this time? What was your initial reaction? Was this expected?We were absolutely blown away! It took some time for it to sink in and it probably still hasn’t sunk in completely.No, we didn’t expect it - although we have had great commercial and critical success in a short period of time - still finales are stuff of dreams!■ Both of you have had pretty interesting themes in the past, such as Poland and Wycinanki for your last collection and it was Japan the season before that. How do you come up with the themes and what inspires you?Research, research and more research - although when its research for things you love, its less like work and more like pursuing a passion.We have a fascination for all ancient cultures and all things folk and handmade, and on another extreme we’re in love with hi-tech and cutting edge design, so it makes for an interesting mix.■ One person or any celebrity you would love to design for?Kareena Kapoor! I think she stands for all things that are beautiful and glamorous.■ In 2006, since you set up your label, you have come a long way. Describe your journey.To sum it up - it was incredibly and utterly exhilarating!■ Pankaj & Nidhi has two flagships in Mumbai and Delhi. Any plans to have a store in Bangalore? Do you feel that Bangalore is catching up with the more fashion conscious Delhi and Mumbai?No plans yet - although we would love to someday! Bangaloreans are more fashionable than what people think.■ How would you describe your individual styles?Nidhi and I have very distinct styles, and that’s what makes us a great team. I believe in keeping it straight and simple and Nidhi loves bright crazy colors■ Since you started out, has the Indian fashion industry evolved a lot? If so, how?We have been in the industry pretty long, about 17 years now, and have seen it change for the better - it’s far more organised, structured and dynamic.The fashion weeks have made all the difference in making this possible.■ Would you suggest people to follow fashion trends?Yes of course, otherwise life would be truly boring and we’d be out of business!However, each to his/her own and my advice would be to stay well informed and well groomed. That never goes out of style.■ Who are your favorite designers? And reasons for the same?I deeply respect all of them! I think it will be a little unfair to name just one.■ How would you describe your designs? What are your influences?Eclectic, visually strong and modern, heavily detailed but always wearable■ What, according to you, are the must-haves in a woman’s wardrobe?A flattering black evening dress, well fitting jeans, and shoes that can carry her with style and comfort on a long day.first published:January 01, 1970, 05:30 ISTlast updated:January 01, 1970, 05:30 IST 
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