Trendz : Creating a distinct niche in Fashion

Fashion guru Prasad Bidapa has created some of the biggest names in Indian Fashion and Bollywood like Anushka and Deepika. He talks about Hyderabad fashion scene, modelling and more

Askari Jaffer

What does fashion mean to you? Fashion is what you buy. Style is how you put it together. Fashion defines a society at any given point in history. Our recollection of historical figures like Cleopatra, Nehru or the Rani of Jhansi is as much about their garb and style of dressing as it is about their lives. This helps us pinpoint any particular period in History by acting as a reference point.

What would you say Prasad's signature style is� My dressing reflects the beautiful textile heritage of our country mixed with modern pieces to create an individualistic look. For example, I might mix a beautiful ikat kurta by Abraham and Thakore with a pair of skin tight Mossimo jeans and boots, adding a beautiful embroidered jacket from Rohit Bal to make a style statement. Or a crisp dhoti from Hyderabad with a long shirt from Zara and I then add a shawl from Pochampally to create a dramatic effect.

Modelling is perceived as a very glamorous field and Anushka/Deepika are the proof. Can you tell us what goes into the making of a model? Anushka and Deepika are both natural beauties who needed very little grooming when they entered this field. They concentrated on training themselves to perfection - in acting skills, learning shudh hindustani, kathak and modern dance, dialogue delivery and the other talents you need to polish to become a star!

Tell us about Megamart Megamodel Hunt 2013? What do you look for in the models? Remember that there are different aspects of modelling which exist and in the Megamart Megamodel Hunt (starting July 27 - Hyderabad) we recognise this. For ramp, one needs to be tall and slim with a toned body and striking looks. In the categories of Print, TV and films you don't need height - but you do need to have a proportionate body, a photogenic face and be able to emote and be expressive. We are looking for raw talent that we can hone and polish.

I have great hopes for the Hyderabad round and expect to find a lot of future superstars here. I hope that parents realise that this is a great opportunity for youngsters which will groom them and prepare them for a successful life. Initially modelling should be taken as a hobby which grooms and polishes you and later on take it seriously, if you do well. Whichever profession you choose, remember that modelling will enhance your looks and fitness levels and teach you a lot about confidence, enhancing your personality and giving you that certain edge in your social standing.

The trend for this monsoon? Colour for men - purples and oranges rule while women can choose from neon shades of hot pinks to lime greens and yellows. Think sensible - cut off pants negotiate puddles well and lightweight cottons that dry quickly are essential in the monsoons.

How fashion conscious is Hyderabad, compared to Bangalore or Mumbai? Hyderabad is the capital of the most textile rich State in this country. A fabulous heritage and understanding of fashion will create a fashion tsunami in this beautiful city. Designers like Asmita Marwah, Vinita Pittie, Anand Kabra and Shravan Kumar are already making a huge impact.

Any advice to aspiring fashion designers? Study your textile heritage carefully. A solid foundation in textile design and technology will make you a better designer. After graduating from a good design school, try to apprentice with a reputed designer, then work with a big brand or Export House to round you off.

Most importantly, carry the textile traditions of our country forward and support your local weavers, printers, dyers and karigars to the max.