Fake is the best form of flattery, says young designer

By Venkatachari Jagannathan, Chennai, Nov 10 : Though fakes affect genuine business, there is sometimes a positive rub-off in the form of spreading a designer's fame, feels a young designer.

"I consider fake designer wears as flattery for the designer. In India one has to live with it. I don't have plans to copyright my designs now," Nishka Lulla told IANS.

Lulla was here to give a talk to members of the International Women's Association (IWA) on recognising the kind of body shape one has and donning suitable wear.

"Most Indian women have pear-shaped bodies - bottom heavy. One should wear a dress that enhances the person's confidence levels," 24-year-old Nishka said, while avoiding an answer when asked to attach body shapes to various Indian celebrities.

Joining a parent's trade is a blessing and a challenge. While it gives a leg up in the initial phase, the challenge lies in coming out of the parents' shadow and making an independent mark.

"With my own brand Nishhk and couple of fashion shows, I have already come out of my mother's shadow," said the daughter of Neeta Lulla, a Mumbai-based designer who has planned the costumes for around 350 movies.

Satisfied with the sales of her Nishhk label in major cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune and Delhi, Nishka said her company, NSL Fashions Pvt Ltd, is exploring export opportunities to Canada and other markets.

"I prefer doing western women's wear with an Indian soul. The unique selling proposition (USP) of my design is the girly as well as the confident feeling the wearer would experience. The outfits when owned give a complete stylised look," Nishka said.

Targeting women with a global mindset in the 16-28 age group, her collection consists of outfits with cascades of frills and laces in the price range of Rs.950-9,000.

"I can relate myself to this target segment," she reasons.

Using fabrics like cotton, knits, laces and georgettes, Nishka has a preference for girly pink, ivory, white, black and grey. She is now busy working on a sequins line.

(Venkatachari Jagannathan can be contacted at v.jagannathan@ians.in )