In Conversation With The Renowned Celebrity Indian Designer, Dolly J
Delhi-based designer,Dolly Jhunjhunwala’s label Dolly J is an Indian Luxury Fashion Brand defined by Its distinctive craftsmanship, structured silhouettes, minimalist and androgynous ensembles.
Her products are engineered with old age techniques of embroidery & hand-woven textiles such as Banarasi Silk &Lucknowi Chikankari. These fabrics are produced by various skilful artisan groups in India. Their Product design process is rooted in traditional dyeing & weaving techniques.
Dolly J uses textile & techniques of the craft in a very contemporary and modern manner by blending it with western silhouettes. It’s juxtaposing the beauty of the craft and the possibility of a fresh approach.
Dolly J as she narrates her story through her own words and talks to us about her journey as an Indian designer in the fashion industry.
We’d like to know how you got inclined towards fashion in the first place?
My mother was a self-taught fashion designer and had a keen eye and passion for fashionable clothing. I started learning at a very young age in her fashion studio. That’s how I got inclined towards fashion.
Dolly J in LMIFWPIN IT
Have you always wanted to experiment with fashion?
Yes, always! Even though I had trained myself to be a painter, it was fashion that I always had deep fascination for.
What’s your take on technology merging with fashion in India?
Technology has a very important role to play now. The modern softwares allow you to virtually create what is there on the drawing board. It is especially helpful in processes such as hand weaving where making a small sample also takes a long time.
What inspired you to start your own label?
I always wanted to incept a label that would be synonymous with the bestcouture ensembles made in our country.
Where all have you showcased, nationally and internationally?
I’ve showcased in India, Paris, UK, USA and UAE.
Is there a particular collection which is very close to your heart? Tell us why.
Yes, Indeed! The collection made for my very first ramp show with FDCI will always be close to my heart.
What is the most memorable moment in your fashion journey till now?
I remember when I got a call fromSonam Kapoor’s stylist, even while the show was being live streamed, they booked 3 ensembles for her to wear! That was my proudest moment.
Which are the milestones you would like to share with us about?
The biggest milestones for me would be the opening of my own flagship stores in Delhi and Mumbai.
Any specific designer or its work you idolize?
I’d say its Alexander McQueen.
LMIFWPIN IT
Since your work is present both nationally and internationally, what do you think is the difference between Indian and international fashion?
The world has become a very small place. The internet has made it possible for the people to be aware of the global trends. A multi-national brand like ZARA will launch its new collection in all its stores across the world. I believe, the fashion trends everywhere — whether it’s the States, Europe or Asia merge seamlessly and there are not many perceptible differences now when you look at the current fashion trends world over.
Being an idol for many, if there is anything that you would want to change in the fashion industry, what would it be?
I would in fact love to see more sustainable clothing, accessories and packaging being promoted so as to leave minimum carbon footprint in the environment and ultimately the world.
Is there an artist you relate to the most whose ideology can be a part of your collection?
Yes! ANATSUI — An African artist who used scrap tin covers and make a great art out of them. Love their work.
How do you perceive the future of Indian fashion in the Global Fashion Industry?
Indian-ness is ubiquitous- be it architecture, tradition, culture or art. Fashion industry is no exception. We have been unique and have been inspiring the world by setting trends all across. Indian fashion industry definitely will have a big role to play in the Global Fashion Industry.
What do you think should particularly change in the fashion education in India?
I believe the fashion education really lacks the technical construction of a garment. Also, the students should be able to get more practical experience working under already established designers or design houses.
Dolly J at LMIFWPIN IT
What is your signature element embedded or drafted in every garment of yours?
I love to fuse the western silhouettes with traditional Indian embroideries and that is a very prominent feature when you buy a “Dolly J” gown!
Is there any message or tip that you would like to give to the fashion enthusiasts and the new generation in the fashion industry?
I’d say live the full life of the mind, exhilarated by the new ideas, intoxicated by the romance of the unusual, which is rightly said by Ernest Hemingway.
I think the above very beautifully puts what life should be about! And I absolutely live by the motto.
Dolly J has become a Global luxury Fashion Brand by catering through its own flagship stores both in New Delhi & Mumbai and also branching out in Middle East, Europe & America. The label is present at India’s Premium Fashion stores like Aza (Delhi & Mumbai), Ogaan (Delhi), Ensemble (Delhi & Mumbai), Monsoon (Ahmedabad), Elahe (Hyderabad), Evoluzione (Chennai) & Carma (Delhi).
Source: https://www.iknockfashion.com/in-conversation-with-the-renowned-celebrity-indian-designer-dolly-j/
