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Will Wendell wow?

Designer Wendell Rodricks is all set to make waves at Paris runway

PHOTO: K. MURALI KUMAR

Style guru Wendell Rodricks will give his best at Paris

In what is seen as a fitting celebration of 10 years in business, since he opened his first boutique in Goa one of India's foremost style gurus, Wendell Rodricks has been chosen by Paris Pret-a-Porter, one of the most prestigious fashion weeks, to display his Winter 2007/2008 Collection in Paris from February 1 to 4.

The selection of the Goa-based designer was finalised at the Lakme Fashion Week in October last year after the French Federation saw his Les Vamps collection, based on the occult tradition of Goa.

The collection in midnight black, vaporous white and blood red drew much applause from the fashionistas. Based on the success of the collection, Wendell was offered two shop-in-shops in Mumbai and Chennai.

Wendell has displayed in Paris three years ago. "This is altogether a different show," says the designer. "First, it is an honour to show alongside the world's great names like Chanel, Dior, Armani and Cavalli. Second, it is a challenge because I am known for my summer resort style. But I will give this my best shot to keep the Goa flag flying."

Incidentally, at present, Wendell is actively associated with a Save Goa campaign launched by environmentalists, professionals and other spirited citizens of Goa against a controversial State regional plan which is feared to destroy Goa's ecology and identity.

"I have had a very busy season. Next week, the Elite Model Calendar will be launched. I have put in a lot of effort to make it creative. For now, all I am concentrating on is the Paris collection," says Wendell.

This is the first time that two Indian designers Wendell Rodricks and Narendra Kumar will showcase their stuff.

Leading Indian designers are known to incur expenses as much as Rs.75 lakh to host a show in New York. In this case, the French Federation is funding the entire show and stall for Wendell.

"All I need to do is tie-up a sponsor for travel, stay and press relations in Paris. This is a dream deal and I owe it all to Lakme," says Wendell.

A bit of good news for Wendell's admirers across the country!

He promises the Paris collection for Winter 2007/2008 will be displayed in Goa at a special presentation soon after his return from Paris.

PRAKASH KAMAT

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