A cut above the rest… Rocky S is a name that the industry has come to love and respect ever since the Mumbai-based luxury couturier first made his presence felt almost three decades ago. From dressing up Bollywood to powering the looks of global icons like Beyonce, the ace-designer’s brand Rocky Star has come to be synonymous with luxury and glamour! We caught up with Rocky S at the Fashion Week 2021 in Dubai where he showcased his latest collection. And in an exclusive interview with Aakanksha Naval-Shetye, the designer talked about his new collection inspired from the Baroque and Gothic period, as well as predicted the fashion trends for the year ahead!
Tell us about your latest collection?
My new collection is inspired from the Baroque and Gothic period which I am showcasing in Dubai Fashion Week 2021. Baroque and gothic traces influence the brand with a design sensibility that is luxurious in aesthetic yet simplistic in style. Creating a neo-Victorian era, we celebrate the grandeur of the past in the present with glamorous and edgy designs. Old world charm comes to life with a new-age magic in dramatic silhouettes, decorative prints and intricate embroideries.
“The journey has been incredible, I have seen my downfalls, learnt from them, risen from them, I have seen my best highs, yet I feel there is more to come, more to achieve, become more successful, as there is no end to my creativity.”
– Rocky S
How would you define your style?
I would define my style as comfort with luxury. I love the color black and athleisure.
You complete three decades in the industry soon, how do you reflect on the journey?
The journey has been incredible, I have seen my downfalls, learnt from them, risen from them, I have seen my best highs, yet I feel there is more to come, more to achieve, become more successful, as there is no end to my creativity.
What’s been the game-changer for you?
I can’t really say if there is one project, all my projects have been a game-changer for me, I have had different kinds of learnings, experiences with all my projects, and I have just tried to get better with each one.
You’ve been a front-runner when it comes to fashion in Bollywood on screen and off it… How would you say, has fashion evolved, especially in Bollywood?
Over the years, fashion in Bollywood has changed drastically! They have become more upfront when it comes to trying new styles, silhouettes, patterns and experimenting with looks.
Everyone’s talking about sustainable fashion post pandemic, what’s your take on it?
Our brand strongly believes in sustainability, we tend to use fabrics which are less harmful to the environment. We reuse all the leftover fabric which encourages sustainability.
Who have you enjoyed dressing up the most?
I have enjoyed dressing up everyone, since they have their own unique sense of style.
Any tricks of the trade you’d like to share with young designers?
There is no trick in the trade. It’s just hard work, passion and consistency.
What are the fashion trends you’d predict for the upcoming year?
There is a rising level of awareness about body shape acceptance and body positivity, size-inclusive fashion and gender neutral clothing. Forthcoming trends include traditional motifs woven with silk, light-weight lehengas, interplay between color reflections and geometry, restoring heirloom pieces and reviving techniques with a modernize touch.