Bibhu Mohapatra

Exclusive Pre-NYFW Chat With Bibhu Mohapatra

Sep 1, 2011 By Amy

He grew up with the colors of Bollywood and now with his own namesake line Bibhu Mohapatra is making clothes fit for Hollywood. Prior to launching his own line he worked for Halston and designed for J. Mendel. Mohapatra’s spring/summer 2012 collection will show at New York Fashion Week and is a must-see, so we had to get in a pre-show chat with the designer.

Prior to studying and working in America’s fashion industry, how was style and design part of your life growing up in India?
I grew up with Indian fabrics, crafts and colors. Bollywood was heavily present in my life. Above all, modern Indian artists were always a source of inspiration for me.

You achieved a masters in Economics and then swiftly relocated to New York and enrolled in FIT. What prompted this admirable life changing decision?
It was all pre-planned. The minute I got the opportunity to study fashion in NYC, I jumped on it.

We’re eagerly anticipating your upcoming NYFW show! Any hints you can drop about your new collection?
She is daring, confident and erotically charged. My SS12 woman is a fine balance of seduction and sophistication.

I understand you’re working with Jenne Lombardo and W hotels, what does this partnership entail?
I love Jenne, she is a creative force that I would love to surround myself with all the time. It is amazing to be a part of W’s Fashion Next program. They truly believe in young talent and come up with super innovative ideas to build fashion brand awareness.

Who are some designers you find yourself looking up to?
Azzedine Alaia and Alber Elbaz.

Lastly, what advice do you have for aspiring fashion industry hopefuls?
Believe in yourself, work hard, never give up and fight for it if you have to, but be NICE!

Amazing advice because niceness really is key! Thank you to Bibhu for taking the time to chat with MyFDB and we can’t wait to see his “erotically charged” collection at New York Fashion Week! For more from the designer be sure to follow him on Twitter @BibhuMohapatra.

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