In an industry known for its tailored womenswear, designer Kunal Rawal aims to make a change. Not only with your designs, but also with the thought process behind them, and in the end, providing your clients with more than just your creations by being available to attend to their inquiries personally. He admits that he struggles to create more than meets the eye; for him, “functionality is the most important thing”.
Indianexpress.com caught up with designer ace to find out more about his new collection Bennie and clyde what, he says, translates into his person. The idea, he reveals, is to redefine the on-the-go attitude and offer more than just “usability.” Read on to find out what went into designing the collection amid the pandemic, potential menswear trends, and why functionality has become more important than ever.
When did you start designing your new collection and what is the inspiration behind it?
People are always an important part of my inspiration, and this time it’s no different either. Inspired by the modern man and all of us, this collection is about those who are always on the go. The reason I named my collection ‘Bennie and Clyde’ is because it is a fun slang reference for people who try hard.
One of the biggest advantages of being creative is that you can be inspired by anything. This time, I was inspired in my room. Inspiration comes to you in the strangest ways and to me, it’s moody and driven by emotions.
Was the design of a collection different in the middle of the pandemic?
This time, it was very different but exciting nonetheless. But COVID-19 has been a blessing in disguise because before this, I always had to chase my own thoughts due to work and the distraction in between. Previously, it was just a few hours of designing and being drawn into something else. Now, with the pandemic, I had a lot of time to chase my thoughts, sit with them, research, and create a mood board simultaneously.
However, it also came with its own negatives, as if a lot of the things we do as a team now are done by me alone. For example, when it came to sampling, it became difficult because a lot of creating a new collection is moving and sensitive. Our line of work is very tactile and imagining fabrics and witnessing them on screen was difficult.
Now everything was done digitally. Not only that, I was in contact with my teacher about Zoom calls and while things were happening it wasn’t the easiest thing to do. It wasn’t being done in the usual way, but anything done differently always brings out something beautiful.
What makes your latest collection different?
Functionality is one of the most important aspects of the collection and while things haven’t been much different since the lockdown was lifted, little by little we are having a series of meetings to attend, be it a Zoom call , a meeting or even a wedding.
When it comes to dressing up for any of these, I’m always looking for pieces that I can make various looks with, versatile enough to go from modern luxury to heavy-duty traditional functions. While I look for pieces that are intricate in detail and beautiful, what stands out for me is whether they can be worked in six different styles and yet it doesn’t seem like it is repetitive. This is exactly what defines Bennie and Clyde!
What do you hope the menswear trends will be in 2021?
Few pillars of the label have risen to greater prominence during the pandemic. One of them is versatility and functionality, individual pieces that can be designed in different ways while remaining comfortable. Comfort has become a fundamental pillar since COVID-19 entered our lives. Menswear is taking a whole new direction, it is very comfort-driven. For example, our deconstructed jackets, which have no sleeves, resemble a bandi when used but when combined with something more intricately detailed, they look like a Sherwani or ajgar jacket.
Your new collection includes many jackets …
The jackets are super versatile and the deconstructed jackets cover an event tactic that is the need of the moment. We all look for beautiful pieces because a lot of thought goes into every purchase. These jackets can be worn multiple times and you can get more styles from one piece and this makes it well worth the money. The consumer wants you to suggest various ways to use it, they want flexibility not only in the design but also in how they use it.
What are some of the most flattering silhouettes for men? What are some of the basic pieces that you should have in your closet?
Well, it’s never about the silhouette but the cut. We make 80-90 percent of our fabric and build our garments with a focus on the marriage between the cut, pattern and drape of the fabric. We pay close attention to the construction of the garment, which is what makes it flattering or not.
The game of proportions changes the game because each silhouette can be flattering. That being said, the Indian body type is heavy on the tummy, so what works really well is layers. This is also a great trend that is here to stay. Indian silhouettes are very conducive to the male body type because there are layers in most of them. Sleeveless jackets are a must when you have a slim body type and want to look a bit more roomy – play with layers and 3D embroidery and, if you weigh a little, choose a thinner fabric that fits the bill.
If we ever had a sneak peek at your wardrobe, what would we find?
You will find a lot of pieces that define my design philosophy. You will find a lot of tone on tone play, even in different colors, along with sleeveless jackets because it frames me better. But above all, you will see a lot of interesting pieces because I dress according to my mood and how I feel that specific day. Fashion is such a powerful tool for telling people how you feel before even opening your mouth! Some days, I’ll go for an all-black outfit, but today I look like a technicolor circus!
Take a look at their new collection below.
Kunal Rawal – Bennie and Clyde. (Photo: PR brochure)
Kunal Rawal – Bennie and Clyde. (Photo: PR brochure)
Kunal Rawal – Bennie and Clyde. (Photo: PR brochure)
Kunal Rawal – Bennie and Clyde. (Photo: PR brochure)
Kunal Rawal – Bennie and Clyde. (Photo: PR brochure)
Kunal Rawal – Bennie and Clyde. (Photo: PR brochure)
Kunal Rawal – Bennie and Clyde. (Photo: PR brochure)
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She is a freelance blogger, writer, and speaker, and writes for various entertainment magazines.