Bibi Russel to 'weave' khadi magic in her show

JAIPUR: Lac is not just for bangles and earrings. 'Saafa' is not merely about 8-9 meters muslin headgear or a 'borla' about metal. Not for certain when it comes to Bibi Russell, the Bangladesh-based fashion designer and former international model. Re-inventing the ordinary to exotic, the traditional ethnic handicrafts from Rajasthan are going to be on display after being innovatively designed for Bibi's fashion show on April 26, 2015.
"Design is my forte and comes naturally to me. I have been in Rajasthan since November last and I must admit that the state is a designer's dream world. While I have worked extensively on Kota doria in the past, 60% of my show's collection this time focuses on khadi," said Bibi. Transforming the common man's fabric into fashionable product through improvisation, she says, "You don't have to be a neta to wear khadi. And you'll see it for yourself when country's top models walk down the ramp in khadi."
Everything in the show - from belts, necklaces, earrings to headgears have been created with thread. "People will understand that nothing can be done without the basic strand. The result of my working with the Kota weave is that the weavers, who previously earned Rs 200 began earning 2,000 and those doing a business of Rs 2 lakh a year have now a turnover of over a crore. There is nothing that satisfies me more than an artisan's well-being. True to my dictum, 'Fashion for Development', I believe in sustainable development," said Bibi.
For her upcoming show, a break away from the staid, the collection will revolve around 11 colours, be it in khadi or Kota doria. Besides, everything in the show would be absolutely eco-friendly and AZO dye (chemical) free that has been created without polluting the environment. "Health and education are very important and we must learn to respect our natural resources for the next generations," she said.
As for the show, the famous Barmer 'jooti' that gave you a shoe bite has been re-designed with an in-sole cushion for comfort. Lac, like never before, has been used to make armlets, anklets going up to nearly the knee, a 'borla' and nose rings. Add to that 'saafa' crafted out of thread is going to be sported by the models and the dresses this time are designed with geometric patterns. Add to that the Kota doria sari too are going to be seen in a very different light. And fancy a Kota doria kaaftan with hood for a ball gown?