New Delhi: Indian fashion designers have almost 15 platforms to showcase their creations annually, but similar independent events for jewellery brands and designers are rare. However, shows like the ongoing International India Jewellery Week (IIJW) in Mumbai are a beacon of hope, says Sumit Sawhney of Apala.
“Jewellery designers never got the kind of exposure that fashion designers did in the country. With these jewellery shows, the designers are finally getting the kind of visibility a fashion designer used to get,” Sawhney told.
His brand, Apala by Sumit Sawhney, had a showcase at IIJW recently, with Bollywood actress Mughda Godse sauntering down the ramp in Sawhney’s exquisite and bold creations.
Sawhney believes “jewellery shows help you make a direct contact with your audience”. “It gives designers a chance to present their jewellery aesthetically and in a much better way to an audience, who can appreciate it. Undoubtedly, IIJW is a huge platform for jewellery designers to make their mark,” he added.
Dedicated jewellery week events have been a rarity in the country. Most jewellery brands have either showcased their new collections independently, or signed a sponsor deal with a fashion designer to get a wider audience. But the launch of the annual IIJW in 2011, worked to streamline the scenario.
For Delhi-based Sawhney, it was “thrilling” to be part of the event for the first time. “Since I create jewellery that is away from the run-of-the-mill and has a bold character, IIJW is an excellent platform to showcase my creations,” said the designer. (IANS)