A friend told me to look into a brand called TAIKA, by Indian designer Poonam Bhagat. I was pleasantly surprised when I reviewed her collections. You might not know this about me, but I am a big art fan and while most teens were struggling not to fall asleep during art history class back in the day, I was secretly enjoying every second of it. Some would say fashion is not ‘officially’ part of what sociologist Howard Becker describes as the ‘Art World’. Although I often see frocks on the runway, haute couture pieces, that could easily be added to an art collection in a museum. Until today I have not seen a successful combination of art and fashion. TAIKA, on the other hand, is a brand of wearable art, simple yet artistic and modern. Bhagat’s brand has truly captured my interest.
Poonam Bhagat established her brand TAIKA in 1991. Her collections contain Western styles, Indian silhouettes and fusion pieces: from Indian style tunics and churidar-kurtas to Western skirts and quilted jackets. The fabrics used are natural pure fibers and mostly hand-woven. The ensembles are skillfully made, they do not attract attention with bright colors, but draw you in and invite you to look closer to experience the embroidery, texture, dyes and prints. Poonam Bhagat shows us that she is inspired by famous painters. Abstract and expressive prints, funky figures or colors inspired by famous paintings, TAIKA has it all. In the gallery you can view a collection inspired by the Spanish painter Joan Miró. Another collection reminds me a little of a Kandinsky painting. The Autumn/Winter 2013 TAIKA collection is said to be inspired by the color palette of the painting ‘Starry Night’ by Dutch painter van Gogh. I really love the idea behind this new collection, being Dutch myself and a big fan of van Gogh’s work.
I like the fact TAIKA is so much more than just a fashion brand. It is like an art gallery show I could wear to a party. Not only would I be looking fabulous I would also provoke a conversation about art.
Take a look at the gallery and let me know what your view is on art and fashion. You can also find me on twitter @FashionOriental.
More on: taikabypoonambhagat.com