5 Questions for Laboni Saha
Seele: What was your ah-ha moment when you knew you wanted to be a fashion designer?
Laboni: I have always been interested in clothes since a young age, even before I knew the term 'fashion'. I was 11 years old when I came across a brochure of NIFT (National Institute of Fashion Design and Technology). That was the first time I understood Fashion Designing can be a career path. Although, I was studying science at the time, the edges and covers of all my books were filled with Croquis. I used to day dream about studying at NIFT and becoming a designer while in school. When the time came, I had to convince my family to let me study fashion in place of medicine. It wasn't easy. But I couldn't imagine myself taking up any other career. I am pleased to say that I followed my heart. It has led me to a life of many wins and great contentment. If my 11-year-old self-saw me today she would be very happy and thrilled.
S: What does a typical day look like for you?
L: My days vary quite a lot depending on the time of the year and also day of the week. Most mornings start with reflection on priorities for the week and progress being made. That is followed by catching up with the team. Later I take meetings or spend time researching for the next collection- or being at the studio developing prototypes. I do a lot of my creative work in the evening. When I get in that zone, there is no time keeping.
S: What does it take to be a fashion designer, what skills and mindset are needed to do this job?
L: Any creative person with clear vision and skills to transform that vision into a garment can be a fashion designer. However, to run a brand as a Creative Director takes a lot more than that.
You have to be in touch with the energy of the wider world, macro and micro shifts as they are happening and correlate that with the needs and wants of your target consumer. At the same time, you have to be deeply aware of yourself to know what your brand should stand for and come up with novel ideas for collections. It takes courage to put a part of yourself out there through your work, whilst also being strategic about commercial success. There is no perfect formula, but being authentic
S: How are you getting ready for London Fashion Week in September and your new collection?
L: The time ahead of fashion week is always busy. However, with many on holidays in the month of August, it is still a little calm before September begins.
I love getting prepared ahead of the shows, from finding a suitable backdrop/venue to present the collection, to casting models, going over music, invitation design and all other minute details. Most exciting of all is seeing the designs come to life in physical form. As the show day approaches and all component parts become one, it feels like an alchemy of sorts. But before then, there are many mini deadlines that must be met. So, keep calm and carry on: is the mantra.
S: On the low days, when the deal didn’t come through, or something didn’t happen the way the brand needed, what keeps you going?
L: I am constantly seeking guidance from higher forces - in my life, in work and in everything I do. So, when something doesn't go as I planned or that I hoped for, I know it wasn't the right deal or the right time for the deal and that something better is waiting to unfold.
That faith and belief keeps me motivated about the next step and keeping me alert about opportunities when they show up.