Interview with Abhisaar Saxena

Abhisaar Saxena ("AS") interviewed on Tuesday, 14 August.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

AS : It has been around three years that I have been in this industry. Being a fashion designer, I have learnt that working on your own label requires a lot of patience and dedication.

How did you become a designer?

AS : Growing up I have always wanted to take up a creative field of career. I chose fashion as my subject because it connected with me more. The major factor that lead me to become a designer was the desire to create something that is very expressive and passionate.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

AS : For every new project I work on a riveting theme, I work my way from a theme to creating a desired look that matches the essence of the label. During my design process I essentially focus on the look of the collection, the construction details and the fit of the product. I work with muslin samples to perfect the final product.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

AS : I feel eager and excited while designing.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

AS : I believe my interest in history and technicality has helped my grow as a designer. Even during my foundation years in college I have been very keen on understanding the history of fashion.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

AS : I had started as a fashion student trying to make eye-catchy and outstanding garments. With a lot of learning and experience as a professional today I believe in making clothing that is made keeping in mind the design aesthetics and the impact it would have on the audience. I would like to be seen and remembered as a designer who is not afraid to take inspiration from non-conventional elements, someone who appreciates women empowerment and is willing to express his opinion through his designs.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

AS : It is essential for young designers to have patience and the ability to own responsibility. It is always a good idea to keep a track of the developments in the fashion industry and to be updated with it at all times. The best advice that I have received so far has been to give every decision good amount of time, which taught me to never rush through with any of my decisions.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

AS : The most important aspect of being a successful designer is to be completely aware of where your label stands, not only design wise but also in terms of finances and brand positioning.

What is your day to day look like?

AS : It starts with a coffee and status updates of all the on-going tasks and ends with preparing a list of things completed and setting deadlines for important tasks. Through the day there is lot of sketching, researching, supervising pattern and construction and many other tasks. I really enjoy seeing my completed products being wrapped and packaged, which doesn’t happen everyday but it is exciting any given day.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

AS : I read a lot of fashion related news, keep up with the trends that are being highlighted by the media and refer to a few trusted trend forecasting websites. I am aware of the trends and the fads that exist in the market but I prefer working without the restriction of trends. I honestly believe that a design can live longer if not restricted by the ‘It’ trend of the time hence, I aim to create the ‘timeless’ feel in my collections.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

AS : A good design originates with a good concept and is translated to a functional and timeless design.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

AS : I always start with a rough framework of all that I aim to create in my design, when all my points are matched I know my design is complete.

What is your biggest design work?

AS : I believe my biggest design work is yet to come.

Who is your favourite designer?

AS : I find Alexander McQueen to be very inspiring. He had the courage to portray his concepts fearlessly and be one of the few people who were successful at bringing around a change in the fashion industry with their revolutionary approach.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

AS : I practice an open and friendly work culture, I encourage my associates to have their creative freedom, they are always welcome to discuss their inputs and design ideas. We follow deadlines more than a routine. As a team it is important to me that we are individually and collectively productive.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

AS : I arrange for small seminars for all my skilled workers and artisans on adapting professionalism and building a healthy work ethic.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

AS : My complete journey with A’ Design Award has been very enriching. It is satisfying to see your designs being appreciated on an international platform among the works of several other talented creators.

Abhisaar Saxena Profile