Fashion First

The single most important thing about any ensemble is its fabric. The starting point of any look, choosing the right fabric is an important element to keep in mind while putting together any statement piece. Case in point: Easy breezy, breathable fabrics by Liva. The label uses 100% and eco-friendly fabrics that defies all norms and uses unconventional materials that aim to keep you going through the day without weighing you down.

Read ahead, as designer Schulen Fernandes further elaborates on the importance of fabrics and tells us why everything else comes after that.

What is the importance of fabric in an outfit?

Schulen Fernandes : It’s as important as every other aspect of the fashion process. Without the right fabric, a design just won’t hold true. If I had to make a case in point, it’s as relevant as what the spine is to the human body.

What is the importance of feel in an outfit?

Schulen Fernandes: For us at the Wendell Rodricks design house, it’s everything. We only buy fabric that feels the best. Natural fibres and pure silk make for our staple yardages. And that’s part of our design ethos- to not just sell fashion that looks good but to sell fashion that feels great too.

Feel good vs look good, what do you choose? Can the two co-exist?

Schulen Fernandes: Both and never one without the other. If you’re discerning enough to explore and invest in the right label, you’ll know that the two not only co-exist, but thrive in company.

Why do you think more people are moving towards eco-friendly fabrics?

Schulen Fernandes: It’s the need of the hour and thankfully people are getting more conscientious. We must understand how eco-friendly fabrics impact the planet and our bodies. The WR label has championed the cause of eco-friendly fashion since it launched over two decades ago, putting it on international and national fashion week ramps. Using unusual pineapple and hemp fabric and other natural fibres, long before they were popular.

Can eco-consciousness and comfort co-exist?

Schulen Fernandes: Yes, of course. Many indigenous labels have been doing some exceptional work keeping both these aspects in mind. It’s only an upward path from here that’s keeping ‘fast fashion’ out of the equation. That’s the biggest bane of our times. It’s mindless and only number driven, lacking soul entirely.

When you are designing, and are in a dilemma on high fashion vs. feel good, what do you choose?

Schulen Fernandes: We never compromise on either. It’s our design blueprint to make fashion feel luxurious while never skimming on the looking fabulous bit.

Can a fabric feel good and be high-fashion at the same time?

Schulen Fernandes: Absolutely. The right fabric in combination with the right silhouette make that cut.

How are shoppers choosing fabric today, is it as important as it used to be?

Schulen Fernandes: With awareness. They understand tropical weather in India and the importance of wearing fabric most suited to it. Eco-friendly fabrics are trending for the last few years and that has been on a roll in the right direction. Also, the rules of dressing at the work place and at social engagements has relaxed a fair bit, including wedding celebrations.

What is the shift in fabrics that you have seen over time? What has changed over time?

Schulen Fernandes: The thought process has thankfully evolved. We’re moving towards a more mindful way of living. Slow and sustainable fashion is not just a fad, but a trend that is here to stay. We have such a culturally rich heritage and designers are now more than ever innovating with fabrics solely aimed at reviving traditional textiles with a modern twist. This has been fascinating for us as designers to explore and creatively interpret our traditional crafts and own them with pride.

Your experience on working with LIVA:

Schulen Fernandes: Nothing short of fantastic. The team was great and introduced to a fabulous range of feel good and look good fabrics that perfectly complimented our fluid and sensual styles for the ‘LIVA White Carpet Collection’. We launched a resort style bridal line and loved how LIVA gave us the platform to innovate and bring eco-friendly fashion to the bridal segment, which as we all know is usually burdened with heavily embellished silks that are weighty and not always the most comfortable to wear. Our bridal line was a first using light, diaphanous and fluid fabrics with unusual and new silhouettes beautifully embellished with hand-cut embroidered appliqué. Making the styles a great pick for a modern bride with a minimal, yet elegant approach to her wedding day.