Smart and chic. These words immediately come to mind when you look at the images from ‘The Other Realm’ collection that sees fashion designer Nikhil Thampi collaborate with Crimsoune Club, a family-run business with eight decades of experience in textiles, 4,000 retail counters and a pan-India network. Easy separates mark this safari-inspired range. Nikhil tells us more.

The collection looks so smart! How much fun was it putting it together?

Oh... I had a blast! I did not limit myself to my acclaimed soiree wear. I let myself dive into the process, without restricting my thoughts. As a designer, enjoying the process is really important to me and the feeling of contentment is what fuels my creative sensibilities.

The concept of this was to create an aspirational collection for the youth and the young at heart. Our aim was to create this luxe yet affordable and chic collection that is both unique and interactive, eternal yet edgy. The theme of the collection is modern with a dash of nostalgia and I think we have achieved it beautifully.

The boldness, unapologetic approach where the shapes and pattern define the ideology of a strong powerful woman or man have always been our core theme — Nikhil Thampi

We love the combinations. So classic...

I was strongly driven towards the idea of a modern-day safari-based collection. While the combinations and prints are classic and eternal, we elevated the looks with an additional personality. The idea was to create authentic and instinctive designs that define the Crimsoune Club’s attitude ‘everything you do, do it with style’.

Some intricate details that make the collection stand out for me are — constellation prints, colour blocking, contrast piping, customised constellation buttons. Smart accessories like the metal hinges, detachable pockets, utilitarian belts and harness give the collection a modern take to classic ideas and we are so glad you all liked it.

The pieces are day to night. What of the Nikhil Thampi high fashion aesthetics merged with this ready-to-wear line?

All our collections have always had the day-to-night theme, which give the audience a wide range to pick from. As Crimsoune Club felt the need to widen their audience to the urban consumers and give them exactly what they need, accessible luxe clothing. The boldness, unapologetic approach where the shapes and pattern define the ideology of a strong powerful woman or man have always been our core theme. Even through this collaboration, I have translated my unique pret couture into this stylish casualwear line keeping the Nikhil Thampi characteristics alive.

The collection has the spirit of travel at its heart. What are your fave safari spots and holiday destinations?

Masai Mara, Kenya will top the list always. Ranthambore, Jim Corbett will come close next. Namibia and Tanzania are a few places one must visit.