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about dressing up. Every client wants a different garment that no other women in Goa will own. “I strongly believe only a designer can accomplish this by creating rare pieces, and Goans realize this fact,” she asserts. Also agreeing to this is Salome who says, “Goans appreciate designerwear, because it saves them the rigours of finding the right material and pattern for their dresses. Also Goan women dislike other women wearing the same outfit as them. Hence they are guaranteed exclusivity by choosing our work.” Whereas other designers believe Goans are opening up to bolder and better designs. On a positive note, Sparsha says that today Goans are ready to experiment with new styles and designs. Hence willing to try out designer clothing which offers something new every time. Cherylyne feels the same, adding that the response to designer wear has been tremendous. Goans want the best with regards to design, finish and quality. They really don’t compromise as far
as dressing up is concerned. However, there are a few who still believe there is hesitance amongst the locals, as Syne reveals that a majority of her clients are not from Goa and that Goans are still hesitant to opt for designer wear, as they feel that it is expensive. The festive season, however, is an exception and during this time, she is approached by Goans for unique and exclusive outfits. With the Goan public already opening up to the world of fashion, the hurdles that fashion designers have to endure has already reduced. Hence the potential of growth in the fashion industry in Goa is huge. Philu Martins says, “There is a large scope in fashion in this state. Goa has a pool of talent and creativity waiting to be tapped. Of course, there is always criticism and praises, both of which help you grow.” Cherylyne states, “In the field of fashion, the prospects of growth are wide. I would like to have bigger production facilities which would in turn provide employment to the young creative talent and make the fashion industry grow in Goa. This would attract tourist and industrialist from across the world making it an important fashion destination. I myself have grown tremendously from the time I started out.” As a newbie in the fashion industry, Sparsha believes every field has its norms to follow. As she has ventured
An Andrea Dias creation at the Goa Fashion Week
A design by Manisha Salkar
into fashion designing, she has come across criticism which she believes is essential for her growth. Also, the acceptance of a young designer over established designers is quite a task but she has already made up her mind to overcome this. “No growth comes without struggle,” agrees Andrea adding that her clientele has increased over the past few years. Initially, there were struggles, but today, she has a steady list of clients even during the ‘off season’. “Apart from the usual orders that come in during Christmas and the wedding season, I get orders for First Holy Communion dresses, for Indian wear and also for costumes for school concerts,” she says. Goa is fast becoming a more recognized fashion destination with designers sprouting at every end of the State. So what do these designers want to accomplish in the future? Philu says, “Hopefully start supplying my designs to more stores
A tailor, my mother and I – that’s the team! We keep the show going all by ourselves. In this business, every designer faces issues with regards to skilled tailors Andrea Dias 20 Business Goa
MARCH 2014
I come up with three collections every year. November to May are very busy months for me Manisha Salkar in India and abroad.” On the same lines Syne says that she is planning on opening more stores if time permits. Cherylyne says that besides stocking her creations in her own stores, she would also like to display them in other stores. “Retailers strive to make consumer lives easier. Retailing my products in other stores would make them available to more people thus increasing the overall growth,” she says. Whereas Sparsha says that she is probably the youngest fashion designer and business woman in Goa. That itself is challenging and rewarding, which she sees as advantageous in the future. Plans are also on her cards to display her collections in different stores as it will reach out to a much bigger and different audience as well as establish an online presence for her boutique. Andrea notices the need of her own space, she says, “I plan on opening a boutique as well as displaying my clothes in other leading boutiques in Goa.” Some of us are content with where are today. So is Salome she says, “I am happy with where I am today. Unless I see the need to expand or try new tactics, I will continue with what I am doing. My clients are happy with my work and I know they will stay loyal to me.” Goa maybe a small state, but it has within its fold some of the most talented and creative designers making a steady mark on the fashion scene