One can draw so much inspiration from India: Anita Dongre

Fashion designer Anita Dongre says a colourful land like India has always enchanted her and is the inspiration behind all her creative endeavours.
In an interview to PTI, the 53-year-old designer says, "One can draw so much inspiration from our country. It simply mesmerises me. And even after you have taken so much (ideas) from it, a lot of it is still left to be drawn out."
Dongre is all set to unveil her new collection at the sixth day of FDCI India Couture Week tomorrow.
The couturier says the line is a tribute to Rajasthan's Bishnoi tribe and a unique blend of "comfortable bridal outfits with lots of luxury".

"You will see a lot of love for trees and environment in this collection. It is inspired by the Bishnoi tribe of Rajasthan, who have dedicated their lives for the conservation of the environment."
The showcase includes embroidered pieces by women employed under Gujarat's SEWA group.

"We have used gota-patti and tree motifs in abundance. We have tried to make the wedding experience beautiful for the brides. The colour palette has nude gold with interesting jewellery, adding to the collection, along with embroidered, yet comfy flat sandals," she says.
Dongre's styling is comfortable, cool and young, keeping the tastes and demands of brides today. The collection will have pockets in light-weight garments to make the clothes both wearable and fashionable.

"I always felt women have to dance on their sangeets so the dress should be comfortable. I have designed the clothes in a way, the brides can look the part and simply let go during the ceremonies."
The designer says bridal wear is mostly "uncomfortable" and by bringing ease into her collection, she has tried to break the norms once again.
"Even my models felt extremely at ease during try-outs. Ironically, bridal couture is mostly uncomfortable. But I have always tried to change that in my designs."
The designer says she does not believe in having a showstopper and her collection has always been the star of the show.

"I have never had a showstopper for my shows. All my models and my collection have showstopping quality. I don't need just one face for it."
Dongre's show will have live music, a tradition she says that has continued from her older shows.
"I have always been a fan of live music. This time a young Sufi singer, who I feel aptly captures the spirit of traditional Indian bridal wear with its modernity, will enthrall the audience," she says.