Living life queen size

Shashi Sunny

She has been called the Donatella Versace of India. For almost three decades, fashion designer Ritu Beri has been successfully reigning the Indian fashion industry. A popular name in the West as well, Ritu is out with her two books to celebrate her 25 years of creating magic with fabric.

“Life has come a full circle. The books, The Fire of A Restless Mind and The Designs of A Restless Mind, encapsulate the various experiences of my voyage in the fashion industry. The world of fashion is fascinating; it keeps evolving on one hand and on the other, moves in a cycle. The books cover this dichotomy.”  Published by Academic Foundation, the books were launched recently in the presence of a large gathering of friends and colleagues who mentored and helped Ritu. The list of invitees boasted of fashion designers Hemant Trivedi, Ashish Soni, JJ Valaya and Rina Dhaka. She talks about her experiences in the fashion industry and what made her author books. 

How right is the timing of the book?

I have compiled my extraordinary journey of life in these books. It is time I shared my wonderful experiences with people. There are many pictures in the book, which will reveal interesting nuggets about my personal life.

Are your books memoirs or a comment on the industry?

These are a mix of both. I cannot write about my life without talking about the industry I have been a part of for so long now. People know my name, but not my story. They know what I have done, but not what I have gone through. I hope my life’s story inspires people to dream.

What experiences from your life made you think of writing a book?

I had a desire to the share the choices I made in my life with others. My designs reflect my journey and people who influenced me in India and Paris. I have learnt a lot and evolved tremendously as a designer and even more as a person. All the experiences that helped me grow as a person and as a designer motivated me to pen down books. 

Who do you consider your readers?

The books will be relevant for anyone who wants to know how the Indian fashion industry came up and evolved. Besides, it is about what all inspired me — from seeing a painting, hearing music, entering a well done home, visiting Paris…. The book will interest those interested in fashion. 

How long did it take you to write the books? And are you a disciplined writer?

It took me about two years to complete both books and that has only been possible because I am a disciplined person. I follow discipline in my daily life whether it is designing, my diet, workout or writing books. 

How did you develop an interest in writing?

I am an avid reader. I try to read, even if a bit before going to sleep. That is how I developed a passion to write books as well. 

How was your earlier book received?

My previous book, 101 Ways to Look Your Best, was a great success. Fashion followers loved it. It sold out in hours and we went into printing the second edition the very next day. My second book Firefly did very well too. We printed only 100 limited editions and sold them in India and also in Paris. I also did a preview and then sold them at Louis Vuitton’s store at the Champs Elysees. Firefly was about my experiences in the fashion industry. It is not an autobiography; I prefer to call it a fairy tale.

How do you think fashion industry has evolved in the last few years?

Fashion industry has undergone a tremendous metamorphosis, since I joined the industry back in 1990. Now people are conscious about what they wear. They want to look their best at all times, which is fantastic. Also today our designers are constantly showcasing in various fashion capitals of the world. India’s fashion is spotted on the  ramps of the world and is a huge source of inspiration.