Celebrate Radha on the ramp

Neeta Lulla whirled into the world of fashion more than two decades ago and has managed to carve a niche for herself with her creative lines and bold use of a vibrant palette. A veteran of countless shows and costume designing projects for Bollywood, the four-time National Award-winning designer is gearing up for the Lakme Fashion Week (LFW) that goes on the floor from August 3. Excerpts from the interview:

Could you share with us a few details about the collection that you will showcaseu00a0at LFW?
My collection is themed Radha, who we regard as an epitome of beauty. For long, various artists, not only in India but also globally, have projected Radha in many different attires and fashion. This collection is a limited edition collection.

Will we get to see any new elements being introduced in this collection?
Some of the new elements include colour blocking with two-three different colours, ghagras and saree drapes inspired from paintings of Radha by various artists as well as fabrics ranging from Benarasi brocade silk and organza to Kanjeevarams.

A design from Neeta Lulla's LFW collection

Since Fashion Week isn't just about creativity but also about business, how important is the wear-ability of your collection?
It is of utmost importance and likewise is the finish and the cut of the garments. I concentrate on all these factors a lot.

Your shows mostly do have showstoppers. Who have you chosen this time and why?
No one, as of now.

Your daughter Nishka is showcasing her collection too, what do you have to say about this development?
I'm very happy and am looking forward to seeing her collection.

Do you advice her as far as fashion sensibilities are concerned?
I only advice her when she asks for my opinion. It is very essential that she nurtures a style of her own.

You have been in the industry for over two decades; how do you feel when you look back? Is there a sense of achievement?
I never set out for a goal and hence took everything as a learning experience, and went with the flow. Looking back, I am grateful to the Almighty for whatever I have achieved and still feel there is a lot I can do for many more years to come.

Would you ever like to pen down your life in a book?
Yes very much, so that students and readers can learn from my experiences in the fashion industry.