Sapphire - Colaba's very own pretty paradise! :)

Super close friend of mine and co-owner of the girly, chic, and fash-forward store Sapphire, Dipika Israni took time out to speak with me about what she thinks is Hot and what's Not.
Dipika, along with twin-sister Divya, started their store earlier this year and have being doing fabulously well! From being featured in fashion publications to hosting exhibitions across the city, the sisters are going places. :)



Read on to find out where they're from and what they're upto now:

* What sets Sapphire apart and gives it its niche? Who would you define as your target?
In the Indian market, as of today, you don’t have too many people who customize clothes. And especially where western wear is concerned there are very few people / brands that customize their garments to suit the client.
We won’t really categorize our target, as we cater to all possible sizes and age groups.

* Describe your label in a few words. And, what is your specialty?
Trendy, Vibrant, Fresh, Chic, Funky and Made-to-order.
Our speciality would definitely have to be - customization.

* You guys went to business school. How did that help in establishing and setting up the business?
A store is just like a business unit. And what we learned in business school helped us in the day-to-day functioning of the store. Not only do we take care of the designing but we also contribute to the marketing and PR of the store. All in all, business school helped in fine tuning our entrepreneurial skills.

* At 21, you are handling your own business all by yourself. How does this feel?
It feels great but comes with responsibilities. It has its highs and lows, and because it’s our first venture we are really taking it as it comes.

* W.r.t shoes and accessories and bags, do you make them yourself or are they supplied?
We have a mixture of both. Some stuff is in-house and we do outsource also.

* As a new, young designer what are the challenges you face / have faced?
Personally I feel, in the Indian market, Experimenting is a major challenge.

* Indians are sometimes hesitant to take risks where fashion is concerned. Do you agree? How do you think this can change?
Yes, that’s true. There are many people who don’t want to try out a certain style or colour or cut, but they need to understand that trying a different look can change your personality. Also, there are women who only wear Indian outfits and are hesitant to try out western styles and cuts. However, the newer generation is more open to trying new ideas and styles.

* From your collection, what are your favorite designs?
We have 3 pieces that we really like. Theres:
A stunning black and white classic dress with embroidered upperbust,sleeves and back. A detailed buttoned cuff and neck line.



A Fun feminine layered dress with a over bust patch of printed patchwork. Detailed with pom-poms.



A flowy georgette dress with shaded embroidery. Detailed with silk trimmings and rhinestone buttons.



* Who / What do you consider to be your biggest inspiration?
Our mother because she has a great sense of style.

* What trends for you foresee for FW10?
Lace, Sheer, Stripes, and Bold embroidery.

* What are your plans for the future?
A bigger store and we also plan to supply to stores in India and abroad.

You can pop in to their store anytime during the week between 11am and 7pm.
G6 Apna Ghar,
SB Singh Road,
Near Cafe Coffee Day,
Colaba,
Mumbai

Trust me, you won't leave empty handed.

Also, to keep up with their latest collections and exhibitions, 'Like' them on facebook - http://bit.ly/aQYEKt :)

xx