Manish Arora established his eponymous label in 1997, drawing on his Indian heritage he soon became known for his use of bright colours and design techniques. Since then he has received an overwhelming response from press, buyers and A-list celebrities, with his label currently stocked in over 75 stores worldwide. Manish, now also the Creative Director of Paco Rabanne, continues to reach a global audience showing his own label each season at Paris Fashion Week. He gives LOOKK an exclusive interview before he takes his president seat on the 1Hundred judging panel…
What do you think is missing most in the current fashion industry setup that would make it easier to build a new designer label globally? Is this the thing you’d most like to change about the industry?
The industry itself is constantly changing, so I guess no, there’s nothing that I would like to change.
How do you find working for an established French house like Paco Rabanne, as opposed to working for your own brand?
I’m very grateful that I have had the opportunity to show my designs internationally and that I have found a space in the international fashion industry. I work simultaneously in 2 continents – that means adjusting to 2 extremely different cities, cultures, mindsets and infrastructures. Both have their pros and cons – but both my teams always manage to find their ways around. Throughout my career I’ve always believed in working with budding professionals. I have a fantastic team of young, energetic and innovative individuals at Paco Rabanne as well as Manish Arora. Each person has a substantial contribution and the collection would have been incomplete without them.
What skills do you think a fashion designer should have today in order to make it internationally?
Research. Research. Research. As a designer/brand it is vital for sustenance to constantly evolve and surpass yourself with each season. You need to constantly compete with yourself. As each collection is completed, you have to let go of past ideas and move on to the next. This is fashion – always evolving – constantly on the move. You need to match the pace.
How do you think the internet is reshaping the fashion industry?
With media & technology the world is shrinking, bridging the gap between products and consumers. The modern day client is worldly and knows what he/she wants because he/she is aware of the movement of fashion globally. There is virtually nothing that is inaccessible.
What are your three favourite websites?
Your most precious advice to anyone starting a fashion label now?
Always remember that you are only as good as your last collection. You have to constantly surpass your own capabilities in order to create designs that are of value in todays competitive market.
Image courtesy of Anne Combaz.
Tags: 1Hundred Competition, anne combaz, Manish Arora, Paco Rabanne
