Meet the designer: AKSHATA MURTY

Akshata Murty has designed clothes to be more than stylish, they also are means to discover Indian culture, and she has left a career in finance and marketing for one of the most original careers in Indian craft into fashion. Murty goes to many villages in India and discovers artist and talented people and works with them and their designs to create her own. Her Fall/Winter 2011 collection was based on traditional Ikats, Chanderis and Mysore silks which were paired with tweed and wool. The upcoming andtalented designer had an interview with Vogue and explained her fashion philosophy. Given below is the interview:

Vogue: What is your design philosophy?Murty: I’m about the story behind a particular garment; it’s authenticity, craftsmanship and protecting a rich heritage. I care about doing something in India, for India because its part of our family’s DNA.

Vogue: Your label provides artist fees and royalties to craftsmen who have worked on the collection. Tell us how this works?

Murty: I approach this on a case-by-case basis. For example, for my Gond painting collection, I commissioned a number of well-known artistes to paint tableaux. The artists were paid an upfront fee and will also be paid a royalty fee for the sale of every dress inspired by the painting. For my Prsi Gara collection, I worked with Parzor, a non-profit organization in Delhi.

Vogue: What are your picks from the Fall/Winter collection?

Murty:The blue and black Ikat ‘Ela” dress, the gold brocade ‘Hansa’ skirt with a brown and gold Chanderi top called ‘Eta’. And for a fun night out, the navy ‘Hasita’ waterfall dress in Mysore silk.

Vogue: How would you describe your personal style?

Murty: Ever since I was a little girl I have always loved clothes. My mother, a no-nonsense engineer, was always baffled why I would spend so much time creating different outfits from my wardrobe. I’ve collected an eclectic mix of whimsical things that I find on the streets of Mumbai and Los Angeles, as well as staples from Gap and American Apparel. I layer them with funky pieces from vintage stores and the occasional Alexander Wang dress – I love his casual and fun, lightweight jersey dresses.

Akshata Murty is available exclusively at Moon River, New Delhi. Tel: (011) 41617103