How many of us know that there are over 128 ways to drape a sari? The concept of clothing is deeply rooted in the the concept of the drape. It is this tenet of fashion that Sakshi Kandya Nowlakha of label Sk’n, pronounced ‘skin’, is deeply rooted in.

The label offers a more contemporary, Western aesthetic while drawing deeply from Indian fabrics, silhouettes and motifs. “We find beauty in simple, draped fabrics and weaves with a little embellishment. Colour schemes also play a significant role in our work,” says Sakshi, a graduate of the National Institute of Fashion Technology. Sakshi started her label in 2015 at the Art of Living International Centre, where she lives and works.

“In the beginning, we only worked with neutral shades or skin colours, which immediately helped people correlate these shades with our label. But as we evolved, we started incorporating more colours, while retaining neutral and pastel shades. We want the colours to be pleasing to the eye. And we retain this aesthetic because India is already known for garments with heavy embellishments and embroidery, which is almost always worked on to the fabric before it is cut.”

Sakshi, on the other hand, only brings in her minimal, strategically-spaced embellishments once the garment, still in the form of a drape, is fitted around a model.

“Most of our designing happens live, on a model and not on the table. That is why, though the garment appears simple when folded, falls around the curves in the body the way it is supposed to when worn.”

Customising is the key

Beginning with custom-made drapes and made-to-measure pieces, Sk’n later moved on to standard sizes. “We still customise clothing, depending on the outfit and we take into account the specific body types of the clients, even customising the colour palette. We love having our customers over at our studio. This way we also get to understand what they need and what is not available in the market.”

Sk’n clothing is available at stores across the country from Krasaa by Vikram Phadnis in Mumbai, Vachi in Kolkata, The Verandah and Anahe in Bengaluru, and now at Kimaya in the Mumbai International Airport.

“Our latest collection features shirts, jumpsuits, and dresses in spring-inspired colours such as mint, aqua and rose gold. It features floral embroidery. The fabrics, in keeping with our aesthetic, are delicate and sheer. This time we used a lot of organza, for its delicate sheen.”

The collection, she says, pairs well with denim shorts or long, ethereal dresses (which it also features).

“Pockets are a major feature in the collection and are meant to signify feminine power. It was the British who had pockets removed from women’s clothing, stating that women’s clothing is meant for beautification,” she explains.

“Our emphasis has always been on the hidden power of the woman. The outlines in our pieces always appear delicate, and ethereal, but there are certain elements that distinguish these pieces from other sheer garments and add character. The garment could still be a drape, but if placed next to a garment like a blazer, it will stand-out with its own kind of power and elegance.”

Over 80% of Sk’n’s clothing features handlooms, largely from the regions of Chanderi, Murshidabad and Assam, as Sakshi wants the fabric to be sustainable and feel good on the skin.

“We are a socially conscious label, everything we do carries an intention of giving back to the society and to the weavers, who have lost so much in our country. All the beautiful fabrics they make are masterpieces and need to be brought into the limelight. We also make sure to incorporate reusable, organic products at every step.”

Her vision, says Sakshi, is to spread awareness on the fact that beauty does not depend on size or complexion or even changing trends.

“We want women to realise they are beautiful in whatever they wear. Our clothing is simple, yet unique and when they try them on, they will realize that each outfit is an experience.”Read more at:http://www.sheindressau.com/tea-length-wedding-dresses-au | http://www.sheindressau.com/casual-wedding-dresses