Tasneem Dasgupta is
the founder of one of the most creative fashion lines in all of
Bangalore, India. Her company, Sara Creations and her story is one to
inspire all women whether they want to be a fashion designer or whether
they are striving to accomplish a dream they have.
In
2004 I visited Bangalore and for the first time laid my eyes on Sara
Creations, I was amazed at how organized the office was and how
dedicated the designers were. I never imagined it to be as great as it
was. I have to confess that I was deeply impressed. I couldn’t wait for
my next visit, this came in 2006. I wondered how much it would have
changed. I was greatly surprised at how much Sara Creations was
advertised and the great number of clothes. I can’t say that I couldn’t
believe it because I knew what my aunt was capable of. I knew this was
my perfect opportunity to interview someone who is a role model and a
great fashion designer!
Amrita: When did you first
start Sara Creations?
Tasneem: August, 2004
Amrita: Who are the target
audience for your clothing?
Tasneem: Women in the age group
of 25-60, but our clients are mostly looking for custom-made clothing.
Amrita: Explain to us what you
would say to a first time customer who has enquired to what it is you
do.
Tasneem: First of all I would
try to understand her requirement and taste and then help her with what
would suit her best.
Amrita: At what time of the
year does business really pick up?
Tasneem: Dassera ( a Hindu
festival) which falls anytime in Oct, Nov till New Year, that’s peak for
us.
Amrita: What is one piece of
clothing that the customers really seem to like?
Tasneem: Salwar Khameez – first
preference, second – sari. Now westerns are also in.
Amrita: Which piece of clothing
is your favourite?
Tasneem: My all time favourite
jeans and t-shirt, but for work wear I would look at a trouser and
shirt.
Amrita: Do you have any
involvements with charity?
Tasneem: We give our screen
printing (printing of stationery) to an organization called APSA which
educates and trains street children.
Amrita: What do you think the
Indian public is really looking for (in terms of fashion)?
Tasneem: Two types of people
come to us: 1) the less well-of, 2) the quite well-off, and so the less
well –off look for plain and comfortable clothing whereas the quite
well-off people are the ones who want designer clothes for parties.
Amrita: Who has been your main
influence?
Tasneem: My first and greatest
in influence is God. From the fashion world I like Shahab Durazi and
Wendell Rodriguez.
Amrita: What are the main
materials that you use?
Tasneem: Cotton, silk, and
crepes.
Amrita: What would you say
(advice) to children who want to be future fashion designers?
Tasneem: Spend more time with
practical work rather than theory.
Amrita: Who has supported you
the most with your business?
Tasneem: My husband’s support
because of his support it has made it so much easier to start and
continue and even when I think of giving up he doesn’t let me.
I would really like to thank
Tasneem Dasgupta for taking time out of her busy schedule to come for
this interview.