“The perfect accessory can make the difference between looking blah and totally to die for.”- Michael Kors
2020 has not only brought pandemic, it has brought world to a halt. If we see the positive side of it, then it means that this ‘halt’ gave people time to think and find new ways to connecting to eachother. The Fashion Development Council of India thought the same thing, and is all set to bring a new avatar to fashion called ‘phygital’.
The season’s physical-digital showcase will not only allow designers to experiment freely with their latest collection but also share and celebrate creative innovation and immersive storytelling via live streaming on the official digital handles of the FDCI. Fashion lovers across the globe will be able to enjoy the shows from the comfort of their home. Another first of its own kind, FDCI has extended the due of accessory designers and gave the show to ace designer Felix Bendish. Fashion & Style Buzz team spoke to Felix and found that he is superbly excited for it and making avant grande preparations for his phygital show. Excerpts from his interview:
F&SBuzz: You are going to showcase your accessories for the first time on ramp at India Fashion Week, how is the feeling?
Felix: Digital experience is a different ball game. The product is at its 100% zoom and every detail can be seen on video .Very excited as the line up is great. After this pandemic , I just wanted to feel free with my thoughts and ideas….I love water , so I drowned my self in creating an Aquatic collection…
F&SBuzz: Please share some details of the collection: Inspiration, detailing?
Felix: The collection is named as “Water “.My inspiration is taken from the calmness of the magnificent- ocean. Walking through life and being strong enough not to be destroyed ,after what the pandemic has done to us.Dancing with the waves and moving with the rhythm of the beautiful aquatic creatures, sea horses, vibrant corals and shells, this collection is all about LOVE AND ENLIGHTENMENT…..Our signature style hand embroidery Quirky Accessories , brilliantly played with lots of textures,prints, vibrant colours and crystals promises a new beginning , direction and hope.
SEA you soon ……………………..for our first digital runway………
F&SBuzz:What kind of material are used to accentuate the look? Is it handmade?
Felix:Its pure hand embroidery , which is like my signature style. I have incorporated printed fabrics , fabric textures, to create a no- fuss look. Easy to wear , easy to carry.Embroidery used are seed beads, crystals, glass beads, shells. The pieces are quite quirky and worn by women for all age groups.Even my showcasing is about real people , real fashion !!!!!!
F&SBuzz:How has pandemic affected your field? How difficult it was for you to support your ‘Kaarigars’? and How you have conquered it?
Felix:Pandemic has been stressful . A lot of my workers have gone to their villages and should be back next month. They are still scared to travel. I have been sending some embroidery work to their homes, as we do have some embroidery orders to complete.
F&SBuzz:How comfortable or uncomfortable you are with this digital show pattern?
Felix:I am enjoying every bit of for two reasons-
1- Digital platform is global .a lot people and my buyers can view it from any where in the world and from any gadgets.Showcasing in a particular idea and format of a video can be edited easily.
2- the overheads are controlled ,Its more focused ,The audience is huge…..
The event is being organised by The Fashion Design Council of India ,FDCI, Lotus Make-up, at India’s finest luxury retail destinations, DLF Emporio and The Chanakya. They are joining hands with FDCI’s Lotus Make-up India Fashion Week SS’21 as their official luxury partner, to bring forth a first of its kind, phygital fashion week experience.
