Indian stars must promote desi designs on red carpets

New Delhi: Their creations have been endorsed at international events by globally known names like Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears, Lady Gaga and Madonna, but Mumbai-based designer duo Falguni and Shane Peacock feel Indian celebrities aren't doing enough to promote homeground labels on foreign red carpets.

Whether it's at fashion-related events, film premieres or award shows, several Indian film celebrities tend to choose international brands to flaunt. Only a few choose the works of any Indian designer -- be it for clothes or accessories.

Asked about it, Shane told IANS: "It is all about the perception and inclination towards the international designs as celebrities feel international designs are better suited for the red carpet. But I think it is time our actors and celebrities wear more Indian designs on the red carpet.”

This, especially, at a time when the west is looking at India for inspiration, Falguni added.

“Today, the west is drawing inspiration from India whether it is an India inspired show by Chanel or saris by Hermes, Indian fashion and aesthetic are definitely much sort after globally,” she said.

Active since 2004, the designer duo has designed for the likes of Sonakshi Sinha, Kangana Ranaut, Jacqueline Fernandes, Deepika Padukone and Kareena Kapoor Khan on the home turf. They also made a name for themselves by showcasing at various international fashion weeks and dressing celebrities like Katy Perry, Fergie, Nicole Scherzinger, Cheryl Cole, Naomi Harris, Shakira and Beyonce Knowles.

Bold and audacious prints contribute to an integral part to the Peacock label - their couture and luxury resort brand that is fast expanding beyond its horizons to a growing global brand of fashionistas seeking stylish and multi-functional outfits.

Why do they showcase more at international fashion weeks than in India?

Shane explained: “We do concentrate on international fashion weeks because we feel our fashion sensibilities are very western and our edgy styles work well in the west. India is a very different market.”

However, they are showcasing at BMW India Bridal Fashion Week, beginning here from Friday. Their collection, which has 42 outfits, draws inspiration from their recent trip to Cannes in the French Riviera, and so, the wedding collection is a "confluence of French opulence and Indian ethnic sensibilities".

The bridal market, they believe, has changed.

“Today, the Indian brides know what they want. They want to make a style statement with every ensemble and want designs that are different and edgy. They are more willing to experiment with their looks and want to try newer silhouettes and colour palettes than the usual red green and jewel tones,” Falguni said.

Experimentation is at the core of the Peacock label, and this, they proved at the last edition of the bridal fashion extravaganza, where they showcased several creations in black - a colour most Indian women avoid at their weddings.

How easy or difficult is it to come up with something new everytime?

“It is not difficult because we are passionate about what we do and we love coming up with different concepts and designs every season. We draw inspiration from things around us, our travels and do a lot of research before coming up with any collection,” said Shane.