Delhi based designer Samant Chauhan, known for creating exceptional silhouettes with handwoven textile has finally made his presence prominent in the city of Mumbai with a new store at Colaba. Located opposite the Taj Mahal Hotel, the store reflects the architectural style and aesthetic sense that encapsulates the neighbourhood. Furthermore, the quaint 700 square feet store serves as the perfect extension to his Delhi store, with a varied range to appeal to the Mumbai traveller and clientele.
Epitomising the rich culture that prevailed in Mumbai in earlier eras and taking the influence of the surrounding architectural wonders, the interiors of the store present the right ambience for one looking to journey back in time. The creative and sophisticated use of restored teakwood, brickwork and even the switchboards reflect the superior quality of craftsmanship that dominated the city during the Colonial period.
On the launch of the store, the elated designer said, “A few years ago, as I took a stroll down the streets of Colaba, I felt an immediate connection with the city. The ambience and soul of the place immediately struck a chord with me. I could easily relate it to my label, my work and wished to have a store here ever since. To see it come to life is beautiful.”
During the store launch, Samant also unveiled his latest collection – “Do Not Allow Me To Forget You” (BOMBAY) which is inspired by his memories of the city. Steelwork sunsets, orange skies that dissolve into black and then become sky blue, the deep dark lanes of Kamathipura, the ice blue waves that hit the shore and black and white old frames serve as inspiration for the Bombay line some of which will be first seen in the new store. The palette includes unexplored hues that the label has not played around with, so far. Silhouettes like open jackets and pants, gowns, organza silk kaftans, period dresses are a few highlights. The semi-couture range is lightweight and apt for upcoming occasions.
Samant’s work is inspired by an era rich in art, culture and heritage and Colaba, Old Mumbai resonates with these very qualities. He adds, “Here, the collection will bring the essence of these qualities to life. It is now time to harness the black subjectivity of our lives and times and dismantle the ‘negative’ connotation of black as ‘inauspicious’ in certain cultures and tell a human story of hope and resilience values of this city, through the collection.”
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