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APEKSHA BINOJ: MAKING IT BIG ON THE RAMP

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FWD gets up close and personal with India’s youngest fashion designer, Apeksha Binoj from Kerala

Words by: Aiswarya John      Photographs from: Apeksha Binoj

Many budding fashion designers have at some point, dreamt of owning their own fashion line and posing as ‘dictators of taste’ whilst sashaying down the ramp with a widely recognised showstopper. Fashion designer ApekshaBinoj did just that at the tender age of seven, when she first discovered her passion for the industry; and now at the age of twelve, she tells us why fashion will always be her first choice.

What kick-started your passion for fashion designing?

It started out when I was seven years old and had decided to design my own birthday outfit, which my parents happily agreed to. I immediately got down to it and finally came up with the sketch of a purple dress, embellished with flowers. It would be safe to say that it was a hit with my parents! There’s been no looking back since then.

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When did you decide to transform this passion into a full-fledged career?

I always loved drawing and after the response I got for my custom-made birthday dress, I decided I wanted to continue designing. Seeing my deep interest in the field, my parents enrolled me at the Dubai International Arts Centre where I completed a course in fashion designing.

Name one fashion icon that has greatly inspired your style.

I would have to say, Marilyn Monroe. Her timeless beauty, classic hairstyle and of course, the white cocktail dress with kitten heels she donned for the movie The Seven year Itch is perhaps one of the most iconic moments in fashion history.

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The one animated character you think nails the ‘fashionista’ quotient.

Sadly, I don’t find time to watch cartoons as my schedule is completely packed, trying to balance my school life and career at the same time.

Which Indian and international designer have made it to your list of ‘most aspirational’ and why?

I really appreciate Manish Malhotra for his majestic and royal designs. The Indian elements he inculcates in each of them prove his creativity. From international fashion, I would happily choose Coco Chanel, purely for the sense of elegance each of her runway looks exudes.

What are the ideal fabrics and surface ornamentation you love working with?

Satin is definitely at the top of the charts when it comes to fabrics. There’s a lot you can do with this material. Quite a few of my designs use satin for the rich, luscious feel it gives the garment and the person carrying it. I also love working with different kinds of embroidery, particularly stone and pearl embroidery.

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State your reason for focusing on evening wear.

Who does not love a great party?

How do you balance academics and your designing career?

It is a challenge but I do somehow manage to maintain the equilibrium. I dedicate the weekends solely for designing and fashion.

Name one fashion accessory that you think should never go out of style.

I absolutely love chokers inspired from the ‘90s and am glad they’ve made a comeback. What’s great about them is the variety available for different looks and outfits.

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Tell us about your experience as being the youngest Indian designer to showcase at the Indian Fashion League.

It was at the Indian Fashion League that I showcased my first casual wear collection that received a phenomenal response from prominent figures in the industry. The experience was really overwhelming and I’m glad I was able to be a part of it.

Describe a day in Apeksha’s life.

It is not as glamorous as you would like to believe. The weekdays are for school. I try and keep up with my academics and don’t really have the time to spare for any other co-curricular activities or sports.

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Tell us about the latest collection you worked on.

All my previous collections primarily focused on evening wear, so I decided to do a line on casual wear this time for the Indian Fashion League. I was inspired by specific fabrics paying homage to certain regions in India, like kasavu from Kerala – which was my show stopper garment. I used fifteen different fabrics, each inspired by 15 states respectively.

What lies ahead for your label, APEK?

I definitely want to go abroad and learn in detail about fashion designing and the various aspects of it. France is my dream destination as it’s the “capitale de la mode”. While I’m there, I would also like to venture out into accessories, namely shoes and handbags. I’m really interested in working with leather.

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Fashion

The Year of Statement Hat

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When Anya Taylor-Joy stepped out at this year’s Cannes Film Festival in Jacquemus’ Le Chapeau Bomba, a delightfully oversized raffia hat it was clear that this accessory had become the season’s ultimate statement piece. The fall 2024 runways echoed this sentiment, with Chanel and Prada showcasing hats as the new must-have. Think of Sarah Jessica Parker’s oversized Maryam Keyhani creation, worn on the set of And Just Like That… earlier this year, or Margaret Qualley donning Chanel’s nautical style at Cannes. These hats are for the main characters who command attention, making a bold statement long before you arrive.

Altuzarra’s fall 2024 collection featured boxy headpieces on some models, each designed to evoke a specific character. “It was about finding joy in wearing a complete look, fully embodying a character,” explains designer Joseph Altuzarra. Interestingly, this was the label’s first foray into hats beyond casual knit and woven styles. ‘We didn’t plan to sell them,’ Altuzarra admits, ‘but they ended up being a hit.

Similarly, milliner Gigi Burris O’Hara has experienced a surge in demand. Although she launched her brand, Gigi Burris, in 2012, she only opened her first store late last year. “During leaner times, when people become more selective with their spending, they seek joy in thoughtful purchases,” she explains.

After years of embracing a more casual style, we’re now gravitating toward all things expressive. Maximalist content creator Sara Camposarcone has been embracing pieces from small brands like Potion23, renowned for its whimsical, witchy hats. “I feel like I can now wear bolder headpieces that complement my extravagant outfits,” Camposarcone shares. “Since discovering vintage fashion, I’ve developed a passion for finding great vintage pillbox hats or a 1920s fascinator.”

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Fashion

The Iconic Bags and Their Names

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Handbags are more than just functional accessories; they are statements of style and symbols of status. Over the years, several handbags have achieved iconic status, becoming synonymous with luxury and timeless fashion. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic bags and the stories behind their names.

Hermès Birkin

Origin: The Birkin bag was born from a chance encounter between actress and singer Jane Birkin and Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight in 1981. Birkin mentioned her struggle to find a perfect weekend bag, leading Dumas to design a bag tailored to her needs.

Icon Status: The Birkin is known for its exclusivity, craftsmanship, and high price tag. It has become a symbol of wealth and luxury, often with a waiting list of years.

Chanel 2.55

Origin: Created by Coco Chanel in February 1955 (hence the name), the Chanel 2.55 was revolutionary for its time, introducing the concept of a shoulder bag, freeing women from the inconvenience of clutch bags.

Icon Status: With its quilted leather, chain strap, and distinctive CC lock (added in the 1980s by Karl Lagerfeld), the 2.55 remains a timeless piece, beloved by fashionistas worldwide.

Louis Vuitton Speedy

Origin: Introduced in the 1930s, the Speedy was designed as a smaller version of the Louis Vuitton Keepall. It became particularly popular in the 1960s when Audrey Hepburn requested a smaller version, leading to the creation of the Speedy 25.

Icon Status: Known for its classic monogram canvas and practicality, the Speedy is a versatile bag that has remained a staple in the fashion world for decades.

Dior Lady Dior

Origin: First presented in 1994, the Lady Dior bag was initially known as “Chouchou.” It gained its iconic status when Princess Diana was photographed with it in 1995, leading to its renaming in her honor.

Icon Status: The bag’s signature cannage stitching and dangling Dior charms make it instantly recognizable. It’s a favorite among celebrities and royalty, symbolizing elegance and sophistication.

Gucci Jackie

Origin: Originally called the Fifties Constance, this bag was renamed the Jackie after Jackie Kennedy was frequently photographed carrying it in the 1960s.

Icon Status: The Jackie bag’s hobo shape and piston strap closure make it a timeless piece. It has seen numerous revivals and remains a classic in the Gucci lineup.

Prada Galleria

Origin: Named after the historic Prada boutique in Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the Galleria bag epitomizes the brand’s heritage and craftsmanship.

Icon Status: With its clean lines, structured shape, and Saffiano leather, the Galleria bag is a symbol of modern elegance and understated luxury.

Fendi Baguette

Origin: Designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi in 1997, the Baguette was named for its shape, resembling the French baguette loaf, and designed to be carried under the arm.

Icon Status: Popularized by its appearance on the TV show “Sex and the City,” the Baguette became a must-have accessory, famous for its countless variations in colors and materials.

Balenciaga City

Origin: Introduced in the early 2000s, the Balenciaga City bag, also known as the Motorcycle bag, was designed by Nicolas Ghesquière. Its casual yet chic design quickly gained a cult following.

Icon Status: Known for its slouchy silhouette, distinctive hardware, and tassels, the City bag became an icon of the 2000s and continues to be a beloved piece.

These iconic bags have transcended fashion trends, becoming enduring symbols of style, craftsmanship, and luxury. Each bag tells a unique story, adding to its allure and making it a coveted piece for fashion enthusiasts around the world. Investing in one of these iconic bags is not just about owning a stylish accessory but also a piece of fashion history.

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Cover Story

Sonam Kapoor Ahuja’s Traditional Ladakh’s Heritage Attire

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As Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding festivities come to an end, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja chose to dress in Ladakh traditional garb. The event featured a number of topics, with India’s rich past being the focus yesterday night. Sonam Kapoor Ahuja emphasized this by dressing in Namza Couture, which was established in 2016 by Padma Yangchan and Jigmet Disket and is renowned for its commitment to Ladakhi fabrics.

 The Mogos, a gown-like item with a shimmering zari border and pistachio green brocade, was part of Sonam’s ensemble. She wore a rani-pink shawl called a “Bok,” which is usually made from silk or goat skin and is worn to keep warm by the locals. This outfit was made of silk by Benaras artisans, and it had intricate phoenix embroidery, which stands for knowledge and vigor. It also had a crane image, which stands for prosperity and peace.

Her jewelry selections also honored custom; she wore a neckpiece set with diamonds and an emerald stone in the center. She accessorized this with striking statement rings and copper handcuffs, all tastefully matched with pearl earrings. She chose metallic juttis to complete her look, and she carried a bespoke purse by re-ceremonial.

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