Masaba’s got the magic

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The signature cow prints on flamboyant fabrics have transformed into more muted lipstick motifs. Her range of clothes is where sophistication meets edge. Firebrand young designer Masaba Gupta’s creations are an extension of her personal style and express the spontaneity that informs her way of working.

“The motifs I use are such a strong part of my sensibilities that they come naturally to me. I don’t sketch, the designs are like a figment of my imagination. When I’m travelling in my car, an idea for a silhouette comes to mind and I ask the master to get it done. It is spontaneous. If something is a part of your design aesthetics, it will come naturally. Otherwise, it won’t. I don’t think I can ever do bling. It is just not my style,” she says.
What is her style then? “My signature style is inspired by random things — it could be the maid who comes to my house dressed in jarring colours, or the construction workers and hawkers selling their wares on the road. Architecture and old vintage houses in Goa also inspire me. So anything and everything in life translates into an inspiration,” she muses.
How does such an approach come in handy in her new assignment? Masaba has recently been appointed fashion director at the house of Satya Paul. This was a brand that she had always admired ever since she was a young girl. “For me, the brands Satya Paul and Masaba are two sisters from the same family,” she says. “Satya Paul is the elder of the two and the more sophisticated one. She loves her colours, but in correct measure. Masaba is more like the younger sister who loves to experiment with silhouettes and a more edgy look,” she says, enjoying the metaphor, and the aura currently around her for being the youngest fashion director for the brand. “It is all about setting a trend and being a part of fashion history,” says the young designer.
Being a young designer in a profession where trends are constantly shifting can be quite challenging, and Masaba is enjoying the ride. “Most young designers these days are so individualistic. Everyone has his or her own signature style and we all get along. We help each other backstage and even get feedback on the line. It is so great to be a part of this circle,” she says, in parting.