Making all the right cuts

Prabal Gurung, who is making waves with his designs on the Hollywood red carpet, talks about making a foray into the Indian fashion market

From state dinners and magazine covers to red carpets, Prabal Gurung has had his designs make an impression at events across the globe. His muses range from actresses to politicians and even royalty. Prabal wanted to make fashion ‘attainable’ but somewhere along the way, his label has become a celebrity go-to name. Presenting his collection for the first time in Mumbai, he talks to us about all things sartorial.

You were born in Singapore, studied in Nepal and India and are now are settled in the US. Which country/city for your is home These cities have all shaped the designer and person I am today, and I am grateful to come from a diverse and global background.

How would you describe your designs I design for a modern, intelligent, strong, and assured woman, who is poised and beautiful inside and out. She is resolute in her ideals, passionate, and has her own unique bite or edge. Every design—a high quality T-shirt, luxurious knit, glamorous gown, or sharp suit—is designed with this muse in mind.

You studied hotel management in Mumbai before taking up fashion. When did you know that you were inclined towards fashion I have always had an inclination toward fashion, and after studying hotel management, was given the opportunity to apprentice with Manish Arora in Mumbai before shaping my own future and moving to New York to finish my studies at Parsons.

You’ve dressed the likes of Michelle Obama, Kate Middleton and Oprah Winfrey. Who has been your favourite muse I’ve had the privilege of dressing many impressive women such as Cate Blanchett, The First Lady Michelle Obama, The Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton, Queen Rania Al-Abdullah of Jordan, Sarah Jessica Parker, Zoe Saldana to name a few. These women are intelligent, assured, and alluring and are wonderful muses for so many reasons. I first met Zoe when we were at school. She is a true muse and an honour to dress. She was among the first to wear my designs on the carpet when she wore a dress to her Star Trek premiere. I am so grateful for her friendship and support. Similarly, it is a great honor to be able to dress The First Lady, Michelle Obama.

This is the first time you’re retailing in India. What took you so long to get here India is an incredible country and we are excited to be hosting a trunk show with Le Mill as we continue to grow. When we thought of doing a trunk show we could not think of anyone better than Julie and Cecilia’s store. There is so much opportunity here and fashion is becoming more and more prevalent.

What inspires your style The inspiration changes each season. However, I am consistently inspired by a smart, graceful, empowered, and assured woman. In addition, while the specific source of inspiration varies with each collection, Nepal is my home, and a part of who I am as a designer. This connection is always embedded in my collections.

What is your personal style statement You’ll see me most often in a white tee, it’s an easy throw on.

You wouldn’t be caught dead wearing We’ve seen how quickly culture, our world, and our thoughts can evolve. Never say never.