Crafting couture

Chaitanya Rao, 37

When Chaitanya Rao was thinking career choices in the 90s, fashion education was nascent and he juggled his evening college classes with an internship at the Colorplus factory in Ambattur, where he learnt trade fundamentals. Today, he is hailed as one of Chennai’s most seasoned craftsmen, having designed for actors Trisha, Shruti Haasan, Dhanush, Simran and others. His big break came when he showed at the Lakme Fashion Week in 2007 with a line inspired from the movie, Silence of the Lambs. Since then, his designs have hit the national runways regularly. “Fashion shows are very inspiring. They’re a point where a multitude of ideas and talent converge and it’s amazing to be a part of that,” he says.

Chaitanya believes his own craft too has evolved, “In my latest designs, I use a lot of black- and- white with just a hint of colour, floral motifs, abstracts and flowy Indian silhouettes. My evening wear remains glamorous and it’s one thing I don’t meddle with,” he smiles. INSPIRATION Organic fabrics, and garments that are ecologically sensitive yet futuristic TIP Use quirky handbags or a piece of jewellery that reflects your individuality and adds drama. TREND WATCH Natural fabrics are going to be the rage, the fashion industry is exploring environmentfriendly options that are high in quality. STORE No. 3, Shyams Garden, No 17, Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam TEL 9840071432