Fashion is synonymous with art. Sonam Dubal’s fall 2021 collection, Mapping Memories, is the epitome of that statement! His desi-chic embroidered line is artistic, aesthetic and accessible, the perfect wear for the Puja festivities.
Dubal’s fall 2021 collection showcases his signature style through his trademark elements — jackets and coats — embracing comfort, functionality, creativity and style. “The collection is made using different types of textiles and weaves, handwoven and hand-embroidered. It’s a collection of statement pieces made exclusively for the upcoming autumn and winter seasons and of course, the festive season,” said Dubal. The jackets and coats are available in three sizes: short, mid-length and long.
The hero of Dubal’s collection is its unique embroidery. The embroideries used are vintage, such as velvet, khadi and eri silk, setting every piece apart. “There’s a festive touch to the embroidery with mirrors, colours and calligraphy work. The embroideries are based on the heritage of the Silk Route which takes the collection to a much more intellectual and interesting space. It is a very modern interpretation of a classic look, a sensitive fusion of the East and the West,” smiled Dubal.
“Sonam’s embroideries are a testament to the art in fashion and the artistic talent of our weavers. It’s a representation of the magic that comes to life when imagination and talent meet fabric. His jackets remind you of India’s maharajas, the Taj Mahal and the beautiful old palaces of Jaipur. There’s a sense of timelessness and history in his collection,” said Pratiti Basu Sarkar of CIMA Gallery, who has worn Dubal’s jackets on several occasions.
Black velvet jacket with silver dragon embroidery lined in panelled Ikat silk
The inspiration behind the line was the comeback of the festive season in 2021, mirroring the merriment and joy that the Puja brings. “This line is filled with very special pieces, I’ve created a small essence of an heirloom. The line embraces the idea of taking out your great-grandmother’s heirlooms, jewellery and saris, to wear on the special occasion that is Durga Puja,” explained Dubal.
A sustainable story is created with each piece. “Sustainability has always been a part of my collection as I use a lot of recycled textiles. The idea is to recycle, preserve and protect. We rework a lot of textiles and it gives each piece an edge, it’s almost antique-y.” said Dubal.
An interesting aspect of the collection of jackets is that they are primarily accessories. The jackets add glam, gusto and glitz to a basic OOTD and at the same time can tone down a tumultuous outfit, creating the right balance. “Today’s fashion is all about singular, individual choices. The whole idea is to create an opportunity for the individual to put together a glamorous, unique look. You can combine it with saris, western wear as well as Indo-western wear,” said Dubal.
Star-gazing Khadi mirror-work jacket
Dubal caters to the real woman. Women of different ages, lineages and body types wear his jackets. “Somebody younger can wear them with a dress. Someone slightly older could team it with a wrap-around skirt or an evening gown and of course, Indian wear,” said Dubal.
“I did two seasons at CIMA Gallery in 2013/2014 which were very successful. I had shown pieces that were a part of my Caravan line, a line with a lot of Dori work, old patchwork, motifs, patterns and block print. I love working with CIMA and I especially love the ethos with which they believe in what they do. So, I’m very excited about the showing this time,” smiled the designer.
Mapping Memories by Sonam Dubal is being exhibited at the CIMA Gallery, as a part of the annual Art in Life exhibition, from 11am to 8pm every day (including Sundays) till October 11.