A striking play of colours, attention to detail and that ideal amalgamation of new-age with the traditional—it isn’t difficult to see why Arpita Mehta is a favourite for millennial brides and celebrities alike. Having completed over 10 years in the fashion industry, the designer and her eponymous label hardly need an introduction. More so, when the who’s who of the industry are frequently seen in offerings from her ateliers. Think Tara Sutaria, Kiara Advani, Janhvi Kapoor, Sonakshi Sinha and many others who have been spotted in the ace designer’s beautifully-done contemporary Indian wear.
Adding yet another milestone to her decade-long career, the designer opened doors to her first flagship store in Khar, Mumbai at the trailing end of last year. It encapsulates that “old world charm” that she appreciates, she tells us when we get talking about it, amongst other things. As the conversation shifts, Arpita Mehta passes on to us some precious style advice, details of the new store and the one celebrity she would love to see wearing her designs (as would we). Read on for excerpts from an interview with the designer.
Arpita Mehta
Tell us a bit about your new store in Mumbai and how that came about?
My new flagship store is located in the heart of Mumbai. The neighbourhood of Khar is one that is always bustling and along with my dear friend and interior designer Ravi Vazirani, we have managed to create a retail space that is resplendent of a cozy, quaint cottage with that small-town allure. My vision for the store was to always strike the right balance between contemporary aesthetics and old-world charm and that is exactly what was channeled in the store. The interiors are designed to create an understated but luxurious environment that perfectly highlights the clothes. Though we hit a few bumps and experienced some delays owing to the unprecedented situation of 2020, I am very grateful to my team to have managed to execute my vision exactly as I wanted.
What is your latest collection about and what can customers expect from it?
Meadaura is a collection that is meant for the contemporary bride—one who wants a whimsical wedding, no matter how downsized it is. An element of glamour and fun is perfect to make intimate weddings special and that is what we have tried to do through Meadaura. It consists of dreamy organza twig print lehengas, classic sarees, shararas, ruffle capes, kite pant sets, fringed kaftans and our newest version of the mirror work jacket minidress. The colour palette has jewel tones of the mother of Pearl, teal, camel, tan, berry and royal blue.
What, according to you, are the key things shoppers should keep in mind before investing in a designer piece?
When it comes to investing in luxury, the quality of the product is what should be paid attention to along with the fit and utility of the garment.
Arpita Mehta
Any key elements one should look for when picking Indian wear attires this year?
I think striking the right balance between elements is very important to achieve in Indian wear—be it bridal or festive. The right amount of colour and embroidery can make for a beautiful outfit.
What’s the one piece of styling advice you would want to leave our readers with?
Dressing for yourself is the most important. It is a serious confidence booster and it will instantly make you look and feel better. Go crazy and wear a glam outfit in the day without a reason, if you feel like it. Also, hair plays a huge role in making you look good, and is often overlooked. A little effort into making your hair look fab can go a long way!
Arpita Mehta
If you had to give three words for your personal style, what would they be?
I subconsciously channel the phase I’m in through my personal style. Currently, I can describe it as sophisticated, boho chic and moody.
A celebrity you look forward to seeing in your designs in 2021?
I have always admired Anushka Sharma’s vivacious style and would love to dress her this year.
Arpita Mehta
The one fad you are tired of seeing?
What I feel isn’t fun anymore is the trends that are now followed just for the sake of doing something different. Wearing a shirt with a lehenga is one such example.
Do you have a favourite show in terms of fashion viewing?
Gossip Girl is my all-time favourite when it comes to fashion-centric series!
On the style front, who do you follow diligently on social media?
I love the way Hailey Baldwin Beiber channels her aesthetic.
Arpita Mehta
Classics or trends?
Classics to wear, trends to create.
Featured Image Courtesy: Arpita Mehta
