A Dubai-based Indian designer presents her work at Bride 2002
It takes years of perseverance to make an impression in the competitive world of India's fashion wear. For Dubai-based dress designer Sharda Whabi, it has been an extraordinarily smooth journey.
In a matter of a year-and-a-half, she has developed a production unit of 100 workers, participated in various fashion shows, and has been featured in Indian magazines and television.
She is rubbing shoulders with the big players of the fashion industry like Tarun Tahiliani and Krishna Mehta at the Bride 2002, which opened at the Dubai Trade Centre on Sunday. Her collection will be shown at a fashion show at 12 noon today.
"I believe there is a purpose behind everything in life and nobody should lose hope when things seem discouraging," says Sharda.
Her positive outlook helped overcome difficulties in the past. Her passion for designing was rekindled when she was confined to bed for three months in Mumbai after she fractured her ankles.
"It was like a ray of hope for me that kept me going during my days of confinement. That was when I decided to pursue dress designing professionally," Sharda says.
Though she had been designing dresses for close members of her family, she had never taken it up seriously until her accident. Sharda has been residing in Dubai for over 15 years, since she married Mahesh Whabi of Astoria and Ambassador Hotels. She has two sons, Arjun and Niranjan.
"I have always had a flair for art and enjoyed working with colours. My elder son also seems to have the same creative talent as he enjoys sculpting," says Sharda.
"That saree she wore was a hit. It generated a response that led to an opening in the commercial world of fashion wear for me," she says.
Her creations were displayed on the ramp for the first time at the Trade Centre in Mumbai in November last year. It was also aired on Fashion TV. She has achieved remarkable success with Indian brides, creating trousseau wear and formal outfits for engagements, weddings, henna gatherings and musical celebrations.
With Bride 2002 show, she wants to offer her creative talents to the UAE brides. "This collection is a manifestation of youthful spirit for the modern women and young at heart," says Sharda.
Her feminine line consists of bridal lehnga-cholis, shararas, sarees, formal short kurtas, well-fitted evening gowns and embroidered jackets with trousers. She also designs traditional wear with exquisite embroidery for men that include Jodhpuris, Nehru jackets, and sherwanis.
From drawing board to production, Sharda is completely involved every step of the way. Called "Thread-Art Designing," she takes pride in the embroidery and embellishments of her line.
"The work of my embroiderers is to the standards of top designers in India," says Sharda, who plans to open a haute couture boutique in a fashionable Mumbai district. "The idea is to supply exquisite dresses at a reasonable price."
What is the current look of her designs? "Colours have made a comeback with classic, elegant and modern silhouette. My favourites are Titanite red, maroon, Aragnoite aqua, Tanzanite blue, zircon green and matte orange," says Sharda.
Her new styles range from blouses with flared sleeves to pants with embroidered stones, buttons, belts and accessories. She has also used unconventional fabrics like denim, leather, and suede along with classic chiffon in her wearable designs.
For the future, she hopes "to create a unique style for every woman by embracing the lifestyle, the character and dreams of the customer".
