While many Indian designers are looking at the west to expand their brand, designer Abhishek Gupta says that he is currently focusing on the Indian market as there is so much to explore.“I feel that India itself has such a large target audience and there is so much potential here. Most of my work is oriented towards the Indian consumer. I have received many inquiries from the west."Expanding in the west may be something that I might consider in the future, but as of now my focus is primarily on the vast Indian market,” Gupta told IANS when asked about his plans to explore the international market.The designer recently launched his concept store in the capital. Designed by Studio Lotus, the concept of the store embodies his approach to creating signature styles that are contemporary yet deeply rooted in Indian craft.Gupta says that he always tries to bring freshness to his range and his latest line at the store is no different.
“My collection is a creative mix of Indian and Indo-Western looks presenting the finest work of quilting, tone on tone work and applique. A key element represented in the collection, which is also at the heart of the label, is the attention to silhouette and structure of the designs.“What makes this collection unique is a balanced amalgamation of western trends and modern India. Each garment of our collection is tailored to perfection and deeply rooted in craft,” he said.The winner of the Air France International Young Fashion Designers Award and the recipient of Breakthrough Designer 2004 at the Kingfisher Fashion Awards, Gupta worked with couturier Rohit Bal before starting his own line.The designer says that he has evolved a lot from the time he started his journey.
“The Abhishek Gupta label has evolved over the years. With the launch of the new store we are trying to hit a higher price point and are working towards our couture collection,” he said.And he plans to take his brand ahead in more successful ways.“With the launch of the new store we have seen an overwhelming response, especially for the unique combination of high-end fashion and the listening room, that has got eyeballs rolling. Looking at this positive feedback, an expansion plan to other cities and overseas could be something that we consider in the near future,” he said.
What about styling Bollywood stars?
“We are always open to Bollywood and would be happy to dress celebrities,” said Gupta who feels that actresses Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra and Sonam Kapoor have chic and edgy styles and are well dressed.