By Francesca Claybrook
I’m excited to introduce you all to our latest featured designer: Michelle Salins. A native of Hyderabad, India, Michelle just showed her Spring/Summer line at Miami International Fashion Week. The collection, titled “Jewels of India,” mixes her Indian heritage and culture with Western style to create rich and unique pieces. After starting out as an interior designer, Michelle made the transition to fashion after being unable to let go of her passion for designing clothes (and even teaching herself how to make patterns!), and launched her own line in 2006. This latest collection is filled with rich fabrics and absolutely beautiful colors, and of course some of the bling Michelle loves so much! It’s a really glam collection. Below, get to know Michelle a little better though the Q&A she was gracious enough to participate in.
BVS: How did you get started in fashion?
Michelle: I was always interested in luxury dressing & creating color coordinates in one look. My passion for the same got me to self train & I started my own line of clothing.
BVS: What inspires your creations?
My beautiful life! I learnt from my Dad to live life to its fullest, be positive & enjoy everything you do. All that sums up being happy & with that you always see the brighter side of life. In my case even the colors I use are happy, positive, strong & confident. My use of colors is inspired strongly by the sensual beautiful butterfly.
BVS: Who are your favorite designers?
John Galliano, Chanel, Guess by Marciano (for their casuals).
BVS: In your opinion, what are the six pieces every woman should have in her wardrobe?
A pair of good fitting jeans, a white fitted Top & T-shirt, an Aubergine sheath dress slightly embellished, a pastel satin nightwear set, a dressy belt.
BVS: What trends do you think will be big this summer?
I think the boy shorts are going to make a big come back. Women are getting fitter & more toned bodies are being flaunted! One shoulder dresses will make a statement again. Colors will be bright & bold. The ‘easy to wear’ loose fitted dresses will remain popular especially in Asian countries although I think the drape style of dressing is now very overdone.
BVS: What has been the best or most surreal part of being a designer?
Seeing my sketch being transformed to the actual garment & then seeing its sensuality when on the wearer.
BVS: In your collection you wanted to represent India, and did so using some wonderful colors. Why did you decide to theme the collection “The Jewel Tones of India”?
I was born in India & my country remains very close to my heart. I am proud of its culture & what we have to offer to the world. Since this was my first international showcase, I wanted to portray & take a piece of my country with me. We are rich in color & culture & I believe I successfully brought that out in my garments – The grandeur & varied colorful culture of my Incredible India!
BVS: Are your designs available in the US yet?
I am now 3 years in the industry; I have now learnt the trade & still learning carefully. Currently, I sell only to individuals across in the US…however, by 2011 you will see my designs in a few stores there…and I definitely will keep you informed!
Want more Michelle? Check out her website – www.michellesalins.com. See prior designer spotlights here.