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Bhumika and Shyamal Shodhan started their careers in fashion in 2000, in Ahmedabad, India. Shortly after, the two worked together and established the label SHYAMAL & BHUMIKA. Since then the designers have developed a huge following, have been nominated for ‘Best Indian Wear’ at the Marie Claire India Fashion Awards 2008 in New Delhi, and will soon be branching out to the US to showcase their brilliant collections. CitySaheli got a closer look at two lines created by the designers —the Holi and the Indo-Mughal collections – and had the chance to interview Shyamal to learn more about both of them, their inspirations and their brand.
About Holi
Shyamal & Bhumika’s collection at Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2010 was an exploration of the Indian festival of color – Holi. Shyamal & Bhumika have designed a line of summery day dresses and glamorous resort wear for the fashionista who likes to incorporate a riot of colors and vibrant energy. Here are some of CitySaheli’s favorite picks.
   
About Indo-Mughal
The Indo-Mughal collection recreates the splendor of ancient India transporting you to an era of grandeur, regal traditions and extravagant lifestyles. The designers visited museums and rare private collections to ensure that the authenticity of their designs would be a reflection of the period. These designs are great for the I Do! Saheli, as they would be a great addition to any bridal collection. Some of our favorites included:
  
CitySaheli’s Interview with Shyamal & Bhumika
What inspired you to create Shyamal & Bhumika?
SHYAMAL & BHUMIKA was created from our passion for fashion, design and entrepreneurship. Bhumika’s interest for textiles and fashion led her to study fashion design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology. After the setting up the label, I (Shyamal) went to London to research fashion, and then to Milan for Italian Design. We started out very small, but very soon we grew and put our effort into opening one of Asia’s most beautiful designer owned boutique stores. Almost immediately after opening the store, we were selected for showcasing our designs at Lakme Fashion Week in Mumbai.
What are the main themes of your line?
Our designs are inspired by the nature, architecture, history and festivals of our beautiful country India. The latest Summer/Resort 2010 collection is inspired by Holi. The concept has translated the festival of colors into designs which consist of colorful summery looks. The Indian wear line is built on distinct Indo-Mughal flavor inspired by the royal courts of North Central India. The entire collection gives a very royal, rich, and luxurious feel that tries to transport you into a different era. Each collection always drives on a specific concept. Some of our other popular collections include Gaam (which was based on the concept of Gujarati Rajasthani villages), Future Royals and India Inspires. Many of our bridal collections are based on influences of India, and when designing Resort/Western wear, we keep global aesthetics in mind.
Who is your target audience? Who buys Shyamal and Bhumika?
Our client is a person who likes to stand out for his/her elegant dress, a person who has a distinct personality and a high style quotient. A SHYAMAL & BHUMIKA fashionista is one who enjoys the charming details, natural fabrics and artisan techniques. It may be a globetrotting corporate, a modern girl on the run, or a bride or groom who wants to go all out on the big day!
Who were/are your design mentors?
Our design mentors literally came from home. We come from a family of extremely creative people –from our immediate family to our extended family. We’re a big, creative bunch. Bhumika and I always shared that same passion for design which pushed us toward unique challenges and a lot of hard work.
What is the best business advice you’ve been given?
Work with your heart and success will follow.
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