Roodaba Omer, the young energetic designer recently made her debut on the ramp at Sunsilk PFDC fashion week. She got a lot of applause for her unique creativity and work. The designer brings out the inner splendor and makes people comfortable and classy. Roodaba passion and panache for fashion knows no bounds. For her fashion is an expression of personality that reflects from the clothes you wear. She believes fashion cannot simply be brought. Her recent collection ‘Tehzib’ was inspired by the exquisitely mixed colours of Moroccan architecture, Islamic verses and beautiful buildings. Her collection was superb featuring trendy fabrics. In an exclusive interview, Roodaba talks about her style, vision and experience of PFDC. Let’s have a look: Here are excerpts of the interview:
When & what led you to discover your spirit of a fashion designer?
My inspiration for designing my own line of clothes stemmed from my love for art and fashion since my childhood. Analogously speaking, for me personality means to clothes what the wall of a gallery means to artwork at display. Both the walls and the artwork are mutually dependent and essential for completing the ambiance. Similarly, a confident personality is incomplete without an equally powerful transmission of expression and hence requires a personalized canvas that protrudes taste. Therefore, it is important to embrace inner expression while looking for outer shell so to aptly channel one’s unique frame of mind. Since I like extricating the symbolism out of cultural heritage and observing contemporary international clothing brands, I decided to apply these emerging trends to my clothing line by adding essence of my cultural heritage. My clothes always have an element of sophistication and style which I also like to incorporate with upcoming trends and styles.
How long does it take you to make a collection, from your first idea to the show?
The collection which I recently showcased at PFDC fashion week took four months.
What was your inspiration behind your latest collection which you showcased at PFDC?
Fashion has always been a predominant factor in my life and I have observed different cultures to find my inspiration. Architecture in itself fascinates me and gives me diverse ideas to incorporate with clothing. The Moroccan architecture has exquisitely mixed colours, and beautiful buildings. Moroccan architecture is rich and alluring. When I looked at the structures, the landscape and the beautiful bold colours an image started to form in my mind and I transferred that in my clothes.
How was the experience of participating in Sunsilk PFDC?
It was a lovely experience so far I felt honoured to share the platform with such accomplished and talented designers. Everyone had been really helpful and comforting especially HSY. He's a powerhouse of positive energy.
What is your design philosophy? What does the Roodaba Omar brand stands for?
I personally believe that fashion cannot simply be brought. I believe in bringing out this inner splendor in a person that makes them comfortable in their own skin. I design clothes that are unique and practical at the same time.
What does fashion mean to you? And do you have any other passions besides fashion?
Fashion is an expression of your identity; your clothes tell something about you. I think fashion is the only thing I am passionate about.
What part of your job do you like the best and the Least?
The creativity it demands. The least would be the endless thinking process.
From where do you draw inspiration for your designs?
Anything can inspire me; places I travel to, movies, books or people I meet.
What is the price range of your brand?
It falls between Rs 8000- Rs16000.
Define Pret …
For me prêt is simple lines with the finest quality fabrics and craftsmanship.
How would you define your style? If you could give women a fashion tip(s) to be fabulous, what would it be?
I like to think my personal style is always evolving. A tip would be: Know your personality because that’s what leads to confidence and elegance is about confidently showing your style.
Which designers and brands have been your inspiration?
I love how Mary Katrantzou plays with prints. She knows how to command a print, do something different with it and move it on to a whole new place
Where are you going to stock your collection?
Soon at Labels
Who would you most like to see wearing your clothes?
Meesha Shafi and Sharmeen ObaidChinoy. I would love to design for them.
Do you have any hidden or unusual talents?
Not really!!
As a designer what is your biggest challenge?
As for now surviving the fashion week.
Who is your style icon(s) and why?
Audrey Hepburn!! She is the definition of style and elegance.
What are your goals? How do you see yourself progressing?
The goals are set very high. It's too soon to say anything. I am hoping for the best.
If not a designer, you’d be...
Doing something in arts.
Rapid Fire:
Current obsession: My Work
City that inspires you: Paris
Favourite Movie: There are too many
Favourite Model: Adriana Lima
One thing you dislike about fashion industry: Plagiarism
You bust your stress by: calling a friend.
Favourite cuisine: Not a foodie
You feel ease at? Home
Any fashion faux pas: Wearing clothes too tight or too loose
3 must-haves in anyone’s closet:
A good pair of jeans
White collar shirt
Red heels