Fashion designer Arpita Mehta opens up about her family’s impact on her creativity and offers the key to compiling a wardrobe for a road trip. By Sumeet Keswani
T+L India: You have said before that you developed your interest in fashion early on in life, adopting styles worn by your mother and grandmother. Can you elaborate on your family’s influence?
Arpita Mehta: When I was younger, I spent a lot of time with [my] family, especially during summer vacations [when] I used to stay with my aunt, and sometimes, with my nani (grandmother). I used to love sitting with them and going through their wardrobe. They had a story for every piece of jewellery and outfit they owned. I feel that’s when I took to fashion.
T+L India: How has the fashion aesthetic of the modern Indian woman evolved?
Arpita Mehta: The women [of] today are not afraid to experiment. They understand the meaning of style over constantly dressing as “one should.” Be it maximalism or minimalism, women are more confident in their way of dressing and style.
T+L India: Which fashion trends do you foresee picking up?
Arpita Mehta: The colour lavender will be a big trend; also absolutely tiny micro-size bags.
T+L India: Give us five pairings of Arpita Mehta ensembles and popular destinations around the world.
Arpita Mehta: London: A gold mirror-work jacket paired with champagne or black kite pants. The weather in London is pleasant to cold, so the jacket would be perfect.
Mykonos: One of our bikini tops with shells worn along with our tulip skirt. An ideal island outfit.
Tulum: I’d suggest our bralettes with high-waisted pants along with a cape. This look will complement Tulum’s weather and its party quotient.
Istanbul: A printed ruffle sari with an embroidered or printed blouse will be apt, because Istanbul is placed between Asia and Europe and has a mix of both cultures.
Hong Kong: I’d recommend our tiered skirts with a crop top. The look is a combination of fusion and minimalism, but also modern and fun. One can also pair a jacket with this.
T+L India: How do you compile your wardrobe for a road trip?
Arpita Mehta: I love road trips, and whenever I go on one, my first thought is that I want to be comfortable but, at the same time, stylish. I am generally dressed in shorts, and that’s what I recommend as it’s comfortable to sit in them for a long period, move around, and put your legs up. You can pair your shorts with a sweatshirt or shirt or t-shirt. It’s important to carry a bucket hat for the sun. A tote bag is a must, and lastly, a good pair of sneakers.
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