Why’s Mrs Obama talking about Prabal?

Delhi NIFT grad Prabal Gurung’s edgy, sophisticated designs have caught the eye of Michelle Obama and others like Oprah Winfrey, Lady Gaga and Sarah Jessica Parker. Vrushali Haldipur talks to Gurung who, along with designers like Jason Wu and Joseph Altuzarra, is revitalizing the NY fashion scene.
What gave you the edge in New York’s highly competitive fashion industry?
It didn’t happen overnight—ittook me years to establish myself.But experience, patience,drive and perseverance paid off. The drive comes from the fact that for millions of people back home in Nepal, it has become inspirational. It’s a responsibility one doesn’t take lightly.
What was it like to design for Michelle Obama?
For emerging designers, the First Lady has been a godsend. We worked with her team closely and she responded to the style and design elements she liked. The first time she wore an outfit from my collection, the reaction nationally and internationally was astounding. I feel privileged.
You had an ‘Oprah moment’ and a Gaga moment too.
I have such profound respect for Oprah. Her message about living your dreams resonated with me in such a way that I found the strength to venture to New York. So when Oprah wore my outfit, it was like coming full circle for me. As for Lady Gaga, I admire her talent and the support she’s shown to communities around the world. When she was photographed wearing my collection,I was overwhelmed.
Do you get labeled as an Asian designer? Is that problematic?
No, not at all. We’re living in the age where India ,China and other Asian countries are playing an important part in the global economy. I am proud of my heritage. I am a designer based in America, who was born in Singapore and was educated in Nepal and India, and I don’t see that as problematic. At the end of the day, good design transcends every kind of bias.
Has India influenced your work?
Absolutely. India had a tremendous impact on my growth — professionally, personally and spiritually. I always say to my friends — if you haven’t seen India or Nepal or that side of Asia and you haven’t experienced its unique colours, sounds, design and beauty, you don’t understand that aesthetic. And yes, I’m a big fan of Bollywood. I have an unashamed love for it — it’s a spectacular celebration of life. Now, my brother works there as an assistant director.
Which Bollywood stars interest you fashion-wise?
Sonam Kapoor has the most amazing fashion sense — we started dressing her as we saw the potential. She’s a great fashion ambassador for India. We’ve also dressed Kareena Kapoor, who is gorgeous. We get many requests, but we are careful about who we dress up — because they are brand ambassadors for the label.
Is there a market for cuttingedge fashion labels like yours in India?
In the future, yes. In a growing economy, there is new money. The easiest way to show it is through logo bags or shoes,which give people the status they want. Later, they start looking into acquiring more refined styles and that is where cuttingedge fashion design will be in demand.