The world-renowned Indian designer will debut his cosmos-inspired "Tarakini" collection in Hong Kong this week

By combining ethereal modern silhouettes with traditional Indian craftsmanship, designer Tarun Tahilian–who is listed on Business of Fashion’s 500 list–has played a pivotal role in putting high-end Indian fashion on the map.

Making stride after glorious stride in the fashion world throughout his 30-year career, Tahiliani has been hailed the "Karl Lagerfeld of India" by late renowned stylist Isabella Blow and in 2002, he was the first ever Indian designer to have a show at Milan Fashion Week.

Ahead of unveiling his Tarakini collection—a glittering assembly of pieces inspired by the stars and cosmos—in Hong Kong on April 27, we spoke with the designer about his evolving vision for contemporary Indian fashion, what inspires him and why comfort is key when it comes to confidence. 

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: Courtesy of Tarun Tahiliani

Tell us about your eponymous brand, Tarun Tahilian, and its signature East-meets-West design philosophy.

Since its inception, it has set out to create the ultimate “India Modern” look. We strive to be a brand with a view in the present moment, but ultimately steeped in Indian traditions and techniques. 

The silhouettes combine western notions of cut, construct and finish but using Indian heritage and craftsmanship. Continuously innovating the draped form, which is signature to us, we present collections that are a distillation of our design sensibility and that can stand on their own anywhere in the world.

What inspires your designs? 

Great design is always a visceral process, it’s something that you filter through; your own perception, your own view of the world—and out of this you will find a new voice a new message, a new pattern, a new motive.

My creativity comes when I travel or when I marvel at art, architecture, interiors, history, even Maharajas. My inspiration comes from many things. Sometimes it’s from beautiful inlay work I’ve seen in a fabulous monument, other times my inspiration can be something as simple as beautiful kanjeevaram weaves. 

Ultimately, however, my inspiration comes from India’s rich traditions of craftsmanship—particularly when it comes to things like embroideries. Nothing is more amazing than beautifully executed, intricate, fine technique.

Tatler Asia
Above Designer Tarun Tahiliani (Photo: Courtesy of Tarun Tahiliani)

Can you tell us about your Spring/Summer 2018 collection, Tarakini, that you will be showcasing in Hong Kong on April 27?

I created Tarakini because I was very tired of seeing women weighed down by overtly heavy clothes. We worked on a high grade fit and construction to allow for drama without compromising comfort. 

Like you would look at the universe and the stars, in the lightness as they are floating, that’s where the name ‘Tarakini’ comes from. The collection juxtaposes constellations, astronomy charts, and star clusters with Mughal-inspired floral and jewel motifs. It renders the essence of the galaxy in striking ombrés and fine embellishments. 

Fusing the very best of India’s rich heritage of embroidery, latticework and hand- painted detailing with digital textile printing lifted by sequins and crystals, the garments skillfully represent a unique amalgamation of eastern craft and western design. 

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What’s a piece of advice you give your clients about picking the right sari, lehengas or ensemble for themselves? 

Be yourself, be cool, be fluid. Wear clothes that float and don’t bog you down. Wear things that you can pair together and use again. Have long drapes, be natural and refined. Do not dress to out-dress others–dress to caress yourself.

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: Courtesy of Tarun Tahiliani

As a fashion designer whose pieces are loved by women of all ages and sizes, how do you empower and inspire confidence in women of all sizes? 

I feel that drape saris can be worn by women of all sizes; it does more to soothe the Indian curves and is more practical. Our Indian clothes, which are very beautiful, work in our culture and in our climate, but I think people should be able to dress in any way they want. It gives them confidence.

For example, Adele has inspired so many plus size women to be confident and sensuous. It is a very important thing in today’s world because there’s too much media bashing for people who do not fit some unrealistic ideas about what it means to be "beautiful". So I think in that respect it’s very important. I think the key is comfort.  

Tarun Tahiliani will unveil his "Tarakini" collection in Hong Kong on April 27 from 11am until 7pm at Conrad Hong Kong, 88 Queensway, Admiralty. Find out more at taruntahiliani.com

See also: 10 Rare Vintage Fashion Pieces On Vestiaire Collective Curated By The Byronesque

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