Budding designer wants to create own paper for garments

At just 25, budding designer Shreya Oza wants to promote sustainable clothing. After showcasing bags made of banana paper and more at the Amazon India Fashion Week Spring-Summer 2016 on Saturday, the Ahmedabad-based designer wants to create garments made of paper invented by her.

The designer's label Asa thrives on experimenting with textiles, dyes and design as Shreya loves science.

"I love to explore materials. After graduating from National Institute of Fashion Technology, Delhi, I went back to Ahmedabad. I met architects who worked with paper. Now, I am doing my own research in making my own paper," Oza told IANS after a combined show where other emerging designers like Sonali Pamnani and Aditi Vitasta Dhar also

presented their collections under the First Cut 2015, which is an initiative for new designers.

"In olden times, Japan used paper for making garments. In India, it's not a trend. But I like this craft," she added.

Oza's collection also had indigo garments and a top made from cotton pulp. She said that the pieces are all washable and good for the environment.

But what about their acceptance by fashionistas?

"India takes time to accept innovation easily. So, there is a long way to establish myself. Even my friends...not all of them like to use my products. I got a call from Elle magazine to participate in the fashion week and I thought that it would be a good platform," she said.

Priced at Rs.1500, her bags are not expensive at all!