Fashion Fund finalists

Finalist: Amit Aggarwal

"I find Amit’s vision and design philosophy refreshing as he combines two very diverse techniques," says judge Suneet Varma. "He’s able to use drapes and construction with a perfect balance—it’s both soft and fluid and also has an interesting form. He presents a new shape and form for the Indian woman."

Finalist: Aneeth Arora

"In a world teeming with bigger and brasher brands, Péro embodies the appeal of the handcrafted, traditional and authentic," says judge Sabyasachi. "Despite this, her volume [of production] is substantial, which itself is a rare achievement. The strength lies in the unwavering vision of Aneeth Arora, whose non-compromising attitude ensures that the label is not blindly dictated by market trends."

Finalist: Nitin Bal Chauhan

"Nitin creates with a sincere passion and aims to serve a larger purpose through his work; and yet he has his feet firmly on the ground," says judge Gaurav Mahajan, COO, Westside. "He is a designer who not only has a strong creative message, but also has a very real chance of being able to get it across to larger audience.”

Finalist: Payal Pratap Singh

"Payal designs for the modern Indian woman. Her strength lies in her flattering cuts, a fantastic sense of colour, and the elegant off-beat detailing and embroidery,” says judge Tina Tahiliani Parikh, executive director, Ensemble.
Finalist: Pankaj & Nidhi Ahuja

 "At [Aza], we have been working with them for many years. They consistently come up with new concepts and introduce different elements to showcase their creativity in interesting ways," says judge Alka Nishar, chairperson, Aza Fashions. "Their quality and finish is impeccable, and they understand their consumer for both the Western and the Indian wear. As designers, their biggest asset is that they are true to their identity."

Finalist: Rahul Mishra  

"In order to promote handlooms in this country and take it to the next level, it’s important to make them aspirational and design-focused. Rahul has been able to achieve that seamlessly," says judge Sunil Sethi, president, Fashion Design Council of India. "His work is so detailed in the weaves and embroidery that it is easy to connect the dots between art, design and fashion."