Style file with Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna

Twenty years can seem like a lifetime for some and for others it could pass by in the blink of an eye. For a fashion designer, who has to cater to overnight fads and seasonal inspirations, twenty years can go by in a whizz. But then again any designer who has lasted 20 years, in the highly competitive fashion scene in India, needs to be lauded, especially when they are master couturiers like Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna. While trends can be a distraction for some from their core design ethos, the duo are very clear about their focus. "Stick to your own style. Believe in your self. And do not follow seasonal trends," is the clear advice we get when we ask the ace designers about the lessons they'd like to impart to others based on their experience in this field.
They are also clear that following trends is not the way to go. "You have to develop your own personal style and have a vision to express it."
Not one to mince words they are also uncompromising when it comes to their fashion ethos. "Creativity and commercial considerations always go hand in hand. If your work is unique, it always gets commercially appreciated," they say.
While Aishwarya Rai might not have won any fashion plaudits for the black pant suit she wore to a recent event by the designer duo, Sonakshi Sinha, Kajol and Karisma Kapoor are some of the celebs that are often seen in their designer threads. "We love the celebrities who wear us," they enthuse. "We think people instantly connect with them as they have a wide reach. This gives us exposure and the brand becomes aspirational as everyone wants to own it."
The duo who are flying into Dubai this weekend for a trunk show hosted by The Glam Closet on Saturday, November 24 at Taj Dubai (10am-8pm) which also boasts a special fashion preview featuring the "real women" of Dubai,  have been showcasing their new collection as part of their 20-year anniversary celebrations. Excerpts from our interview: 
When you both started out there were no H&M or Zara or high street labels, so do you feel today you have to compete with the ready-made stuff, which is easily available over the counter? Or do you believe designer clothes have their own clientele?
That's true when we started we never had ready-to-wear brands. These days we do have to consider what is already available but there is a huge bespoke market in India and everyone wants to get things custom made in their custom size.
What's the biggest difference you see in your clients - from when you started out to today?
The new age clients are very well informed and already know what they want. They are ready to experiment now and are more open to new idea/concepts and new colours.
You are among the rare breed of designers who cater to both men and women. What's the biggest difference when it comes to designing for men and women? Generally, who tends to be more fussy?
Well, we love all our clients, if things fit well they are not fussy at all. These days men are equally particular about what they wear and they know what suits them. 
What do you believe is the key to your success considering that a country like India has such a huge talent pool of designers?
We pay a lot of emphasis on silhouettes and detailing. We always try to bring some uniqueness for each garment, which has always been our USP. We have always drawn inspiration from contemporary art. 
What's the best bit of advice you'd give your younger self, based on your experience over the past 20 years in the industry?
Do not be scared of the challenges and deadlines are always a good idea. And always work on your new collection way in advance!
Is social media a boon or bane of a designer's existence considering the scope for copying is so much more nowadays?
New age technology is always a good idea. Yes, the scope of copying is a risk but no one can take the aesthetic sense of the original.
Finally what can fans expect at your Dubai show?
We are bringing our new Couture line - The Luminous Wave. The collection brings together traditional and new age with beaten gold appliques mixed with the liquid shine of the shining crystals. This is our very first venture into the contemporary Indian line.
 
 
ambica@khaleejtimes.com