The butterfly effect

Designer Ritika Bharwani

Designer Ritika Bharwani, who launched her label, Ritika, three years ago, takes pride in carving a niche in contemporary occasion and bridal wear. Bharwani's Autumn/Winter 2014 collection Wings of Desire is all about embellishments, intricate details and drapes. The designer chats about her collection that was launched recently:

Q. Where did you get your inspiration for your latest collection and how have you incorporated the theme?
A. I had travelled to Argentina in February this year and visited the Iguazu Falls. The greenery and the butterflies that I spotted on the nature trails inspired me. In my collection titled Wings of Desire, I have interpreted the optical illusion of the wings of the butterfly in my own way. So I've done leather cutwork embellishments, which are in the shape of wings with net detailing. Also, we have given a water-colour effect to the butterfly motif, using digital print. That lends more vibrancy to the line as the garments are in deeper hues. The colour palette includes shades of desert taupe, wine, aubergine, scarlet, oxford blue, black and hints of metallic silver and gold. We have also developed a 3D embellishment in the shape of a butterfly. Some of the silhouettes, such as capes and jackets, are also inspired by the butterfly. We have a mix of separates as well as cocktail dresses, gowns, shirt dresses and more that should appeal to a wider audience as there is something for everyone.

Designer Ritika Bharwani

Q. What is the USP of your designs?
A. We specialise in embellishments. Each collection of mine has a standout embellishment. Also, we pay a lot of attention to the finish, the cut and the draping. We experiment a lot with new cuts, draping and silhouettes.

Q. What should a customer expect from a Ritika design?
A. My inspiration comes from art, architecture, culture and my travels. So my clients can expect something contemporary which will always have a unique cut and embellishments. I think that's where our forte lies and that's what a customer should
look for.

A model in one of her designs

Q. What's next for your label?
A. Currently, I'm looking forward to the response to the latest collection. Within the next five years, I want to supply to international stores too. Currently, we supply to 15 stores in India. We want to increase our presence in India also by participating in fashion weeks.