Translate Handwoven Ikat is an Indian fashion and home decor brand that was conceptualized and created by Vinita and Vikas Passary. This unique concept takes traditional ikat weaves, and recreates contemporary wear for women.

‘Translate’ will be showcasing their latest collection at the Numaish Summer Show (at Hotel Conrad, from 29 – 30th April 2016).

I had a chat with co-founder Vinita Passary. Read on to learn more about this eclectic Indo-Western brand, and the summer styles we need to look out for in Summer 2016.

What inspired you to become a fashion designer?

I own a multi designer store named Anonym which specializes in clothing and textiles from India with global aesthetics. My passion for textiles and my work makes me exploratory in the field of Handlooms.  On one such exploration trip to a neighbouring village near pochampally I discovered a small weaver’s cluster which was involved in the process of ikat weaving. I was fascinated by the weaving. My undying love for Indian textiles took me there again to know what it takes to make an ikat textile. After meeting few master weavers and their families, listening to them about how the new generation has nearly given up on weaving and the craft is gradually receding due to lack of manpower wanting to involve with handloom ikats, the voice inside of me said I must involve myself with ikats to create an awareness of this magnificent art form. Having nurtured contemporary sensibility in fashion trends ikat was a huge connection as Ikat forms are graphical and andhra ikats have contemporary note. I decided to create something with the already existing facilities in that sector that’s when the seed was sown.

 

Tell us more about the latest collection that you are showcasing at Numaish.

The collection is inspired from the traditional Ikats, beautifully fusing hand-woven traditional design of Ikat with popular uber-urban trends that makes for irresistible wardrobe essentials. The collection includes separates ranging from maxi dress, sleeveless summer dress, long jackets, kurtas, palazzos, stoles, and sarees.

What are the key inspirations behind this collection?

We work with traditional textiles and classic minimal silhouette. We are against fast fashion; our garments are ever-green and can be worn for many seasons. Translate woman is an independent free spirited person who shares love for hand-woven textiles and believes in fuss free clothing and defines her own style in fashion

 How does Indian fashion stand out from the rest of the world?

India has a rich heritage in hand-looms which has a really bright future as every handloom offers a special character and with India’s growing awareness in textile the domestic as well as the international markets are both embracing with equal charm. Earlier the textile was only available in form of sarees and yardage but today talented designers across the globe are gaining momentum with our textiles and bringing something unique and wearable to the audience in affordable prices creating awareness for our craft and heritage.

Where do you see Indian fashion in the next five years?

Indian designer have gained a lot of appreciation in international fashion scene.  I think there will more awareness about what Indian textiles have to offer.  Fashion from Indian textiles offer more sustainability, are environment friendly. Indian fashion is becoming more versatile, and easy- to –wear for all.

Please list 5 key wardrobe essentials for an Indian wardrobe.

A Banaras silk sari

Cotton ikat saree

Kashmiri embroidery shawl

Antique Silver accessories

Jaipur block printed dress

 

What are 5 of your can’t live without fashion items from your own wardrobe?

An ikat kimono jacket, denims, palazzo pants, silk saree, travel friendly long jacket.

 

Please list 5 fashion essentials for summer 2016.

Cotton palazzo pants, linen saree, muslin Maxi  dress, cotton stole, and  kaftans.

 

What else do you have in store for 2016? 

At Translate our next collection is focusing on a generation which loves to pick up easy n versatile separateswhich they can pair with their classics. Straighter silhouettes, easy patterns, younger looks.

 

What are the key trends to look out for in the coming months?

Its summer so a lot of pastels, rose, honey dew colors, longer kurtas, off-shoulder dresses, princess gowns are the trends to look for.

 

Look out for Translate Handwoven Ikat at the Numaish Summer Show 2016!