Of Scaffolding and Silhouettes – The Story Of An Urban Fashion Label

Gaurav & ritika is a label that combines postmodern architectural forms and urban landscapes with the simplicity and effortlessness of geometrical precision. The two designers met at an all-India fashion competition in Mumbai; but unlike most competitors, Gaurav and Ritika made an instant connection that spawned a friendship that evolved into their fashion label, gaurav&ritika. Since their debut show ‘Defnite Space’ in Spring/Summer 09, gaurav & ritika has travelled to the Middle East and was last seen in Hong Kong at the World Boutique.

Their last collection was inspired by contemporary artists Ursula Morley Price, the ceramist, and furniture product designer, Tejo Remy. Luxurious Italian suiting fabrics constructed in nonconformist silhouettes, traditional knitted wool frills and handmade crotchet panels explored the concepts of construction and deconstruction. “The cold greys and neutrals of ceramics were contrasted by highlights of stark red paint. Light and dense hues of blue sky were woven into dusty browns of architect Kengo Kuma’s scaffolding concretes,” the designers elaborate.

“Our inspiration comes from events, people and objects that we see around us from day to day. This has led to our natural affinity to lines and shapes, and a fascination for postmodern architecture. The haphazard geometry of Indian cities finds reflection in much of our work and has taken us on a tangent different from popular explorations of traditional Indian kitsch.”

Already masters at pattern making, they combine their patterns with traditional methods of draping to create distinct silhouettes. The designers take the concept of shape and form very seriously. “Rectangular or cuboid shapes are softened by folds, tucks and pleats to form garments which are feminine and modern at the same time.” And what do the designers plan for the spring season? Gaurav says, “I really want to do a watercolor/pastel palette. Fewer t-shirts and more shirts in light muslins and voiles, with interesting details paired with tapered ankle length trousers.”

Volume 1 Issue 9