In Conversation with Saaksha & Kinni

Mira Kapoor in Saaksha & Kinni

Ever since they debuted their eponymous label at Lakmé Fashion Week‘s Gen-Next show, the sister-in-law designer duo of Saaksha Bhat and Kinnari Kamat has quickly carved a niche for their boho-luxe occasion wear that marries comfort with cool-girl flair. Bold prints and indigenous embroidery techniques are treated with global relevance for modern tastemakers, and their list of patrons includes everyone from Sharon Stone to Sonam Kapoor Ahuja and Kareena Kapoor Khan.

Ananya Panday in Saaksha & Kinni

They talk to Aashni + Co about their LFW grand finale show (available to shop here), curating a versatile wardrobe, and more!

Tell us about your LFW grand finale collection ‘Gor’.

‘Gor’ is a celebration of the Banjara tribe with particular focus on their women. We have focused on their intricate mirror embroidery — used both as embellishments and prints in the collection. We also drew inspiration from their skirts and blouses, reimagined as shirts and asymmetrical skirts, sari dresses and co-ord sets.

CaptureSKK

What is the Saaksha & Kinni signature?

Our bold Indian prints and a celebration of micro pleating have become our USP. Our Indian prints, designed in contemporary silhouettes, allow women to carry a little piece of India with them. For example, we’ve used ikat, once only be found on saris, on bralettes, skirts, shirts and kaftans too. Our hand micro-pleating is something we are extremely proud of. Time-consuming and extremely intricate, it allows us to preserve the craft and employ artisans specialising in it.

The sartorial mood now is ‘less is more’; to invest in season-less wardrobe staples. Would you agree?

‘Less is more’ will always be in fashion, not just during a pandemic. Of course, spending power took a particular beating in 2020, pushing consumers to make smarter buying decisions. However, buying timeless pieces should be every responsible shopper’s ethos. Repeating pieces and mixing-and-matching, not only allows one to be super creative but is socially responsible too.

CaptureSK

So are trends totally obsolete then?

A large percentage of people are still unfortunately trend-driven. In our opinion, not only is it socially irresponsible, but to be brutally honest, a little boring too! Those that stick to their own rules and wear clothes that make them feel something, rather than following the herd, will always be more inherently stylish. We hope there comes a day when fast fashion and trends no longer exist, and people start treating fashion like art.

What’s your advice for those building a long-lasting Indian wear wardrobe?

Assess your social calendar and plan accordingly. Invest in pieces that are handmade, as well as those that allow you to preserve a craft. Choose separates that can be easily mixed and matched. That, and good quality fabrics will last you long!

CaptureSKKK