Renowned for his expertise in men’s couture, Raghavendra Rathore seamlessly blends tradition and innovation in his designs. As the founder and chief design officer of his eponymous label, Rathore draws inspiration from his family’s 800-year lineage and his native town of Jodhpur. In an interview, he discusses the relevance of his brand, the evolution of men’s couture, the influence of culture on his designs, and shares valuable insights for aspiring designers.
Rathore’s latest collection, titled ‘India in London,’ pays homage to the stylish men and women who journeyed to Europe in the 1920s. These individuals embraced Western fashion while infusing it with traditional Indian elements, exuding the essence of chic India of that era. Rathore’s designs embody this fusion, incorporating the vibrant colors and cultural ideas of the open desert. For him, culture serves as the foundation of design, offering a distinct identity and a storytelling aspect that resonates with people.
Exploring the cultural ethos of old-world India forms the cornerstone of Rathore’s design process. Everything from architecture to textiles, folklore to royalty, provides potential inspiration. This deep dive into cultural roots shapes the narrative of his collections. Rathore translates these inspirations into design elements and fabric manipulations, resulting in collections that embody the rich cultural tapestry of India.
Remaining relevant in a rapidly changing industry requires a delicate balance of innovation and preservation. Rathore believes that by maintaining his brand’s core ethos rooted in heritage and craftsmanship, while adapting to modern aesthetics, he has managed to stay distinct and relevant. Men’s couture has undergone significant transformation over the years, shifting from strict tradition to more exploratory and individualistic styles. Rathore’s label reflects this evolution by combining classic elegance with contemporary influences.
Rathore’s dream has always been to showcase the best of Indian heritage on a global platform. Over time, this dream has expanded to include creating sustainable fashion and providing employment opportunities for local artisans. Giving back to society has become an integral aspect of his management mantra.
Fashion sensibilities have become more nuanced, with consumers now valuing sustainability, authenticity, and individualism. Trends are giving way to personal style, and thoughtful purchasing is replacing fast fashion. In this context, Rathore emphasizes the importance of comfort and personality when it comes to men’s fashion. For him, a classic combination that can never go wrong is a well-tailored Bandhgala suit paired with Jodhpuri trousers, handcrafted to perfection—an epitome of regal elegance and sophistication.
When asked about celebrities who do justice to his designs, Rathore mentions Saif Ali Khan, whose persona resonates well with the ethos of the brand. Reflecting on his favorite creation, he highlights the Jodhpuri Bandhgala suit, which encapsulates his design philosophy of blending modern silhouettes with the regal heritage of Jodhpur.
A cherished memory for Rathore is witnessing his designs showcased by models on the runway at a major fashion week in New York, under the label of Oscar de la Renta. This transformative experience boosted his confidence and reinforced his commitment to his craft.
Offering advice to aspiring designers, Rathore urges them to find their unique voice and stay true to it. Learning from traditions is crucial, but forging their own path is equally important. He emphasizes that success in fashion requires a blend of creativity, persistence, and authenticity, while also encouraging young designers to understand and embrace technology.
In conclusion, Raghavendra Rathore’s designs stand as a testament to the power of cultural inspiration and storytelling in fashion. With a deep connection to his heritage, and a vision for sustainable fashion.
