Anjali Sharma, an alumnus of National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), a premier fashion institute in India, is the owner of French Curve, a niche fashion studio based out of Bangalore, offering designer wear globally to the fashion conscious, under the brand name of ANJALISHARMA. She talks to our writer, Nancy Katyal, about her experience of starting a fashion label in India.

How did you get into fashion designing? 

The earliest memories I have are of making paper dolls with Origami and dressing them up with cut outs. My father was in the Army and I remember I used to draw women and on the verandahs of the barracks we lived in! It was my father who identified my interests and navigated my career choices.

Please tell us as to how you started Studio French Curve and what were the challenges that came your way while setting it up?

After working in the various segments of the garment industry, as a research and development head for global buyers for over six years, as a senior faculty at NIFT for over a decade, the time was correct to venture out on my dream project- French Curve.

As any new start up, we had to prove ourselves in the niche we chose, build up clients while maintaining standards, be seen in the market with the correct product and ensure our salaries were on time. Every step has been a positive challenge. In my opinion, the three mantras to overcome any situation are perseverance, focus and hard work.

Tell us about your labels French Curve and brand ANJALISHARMA.

French Curve is a very minimal, subtle and understated western prêt clothing for women. We use natural fabrics and make beautifully chic clothes for a woman who has an identity and is sensitive towards garment design and finish. Very delicate construction details with a twist in silhouette add to the look.

ANJALISHARMA on the other hand is a line of exquisitely pretty, very upscale trousseau cum cocktail cum easy chic line of Indian traditional wear with a bit of western in it! The label is about combining and retaining the essence of a drape, the fit of a choli, the fall of a lehnga, the essence of a dupatta. The ensembles in this line are apt for a Sangeet to a Mehndi to a nice funky cocktail- for someone who is completely self-made.