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The young Turk
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Designer Varun Bahl on international success and the lure of the Indian market
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Photo: Anu Pushkarna
Creative streak Varun Bahl
Varun Bahl knew designing was his calling even as a child. “Early on I used to help choose my mother’s clothes,” says Varun winding back to his childhood. But the young designer, merely three years old in the industry, asserts it is
“not the glamour” of fashion that lured him.
In a short span, Varun has proved his “flair”. Justifiably, he gets a little annoyed every time he is described as the “upcoming designer.”
Already a grand finale designer at the Wills India Lifestyle Fashion Week, rave reviews at Milan, a growing clientele in Japan, Varun is now gearing up for another first. He will debut at Bridal Asia beginning next week.
“I want people to know I can design Indian clothes as well,” he quips. Varun promises a thorough Indian fare, replete with saris in flowing georgettes and silks.
“There is too much on my plate,” says the young designer about his itinerary for the rest of the year. “The latter part of the year is going to see a lot of saris and lehangas from me,” explains Varun.
Playing to the strength
That’s too many Indian clothes from a designer known for his panache for Western clothes. Quiz him on his success in the West, and Varun says, “Even at the beginning of my career, I knew where to start and what strategies to adopt. You have to know your strength. It is important for a designer to realise he or she is showcasing at international shows.” But Varun is now at pains to show he can design Indian clothes just as well. “Indian designers are lucky that way. We get to do both kinds of clothes, while in Europe there is no such choice,” he says.
Varun admits fashion often gets a little eclipsed by glitz and celebrities. “Not only in India, glamour is associated with fashion abroad too. Glamour and celebrities add to the adventure. There is a perception that fashion weeks in India are all about glamour. But there is a very serious aspect to it. Nobody would be part of two fashion weeks a year just for fun,” Varun is eloquent.
“Designing” and “inspiration” just click for Varun. Taking a trip through the creative process, the designer says, “A collection often takes many turns before it reaches its final form. For me, it’s all about being in the right mood.”
Designing is quintessentially creative, believes Varun. “Often, two days before the show, I realise I hate my collection. Then the show happens and it is such a relief. Judgement is passed on your work of two months in 22 minutes,” says Varun.
The designer is well aware of fickle fame. “I never act too big for my boots,” he keeps his motto simple.
P. ANIMA
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