Collage turns 20 in November this year. But the celebrations are already underway: this includes an art show, a gamut of new collections, and old designers making a comeback. “From July onwards we are doing something interesting every month.
We didn’t just want to invite people and do dinner. It had to be something unusual; something that’s got a strong design sense. There should be a design story to talk about,” says Lata Madhu, founder of the multi-designer store.
To begin with, she got Aulerth to showcase its sustainable jewellery, while Pero launched its new collection including a line for men. Collage which first opened in 2004, on the corner of Greams Road, moved to a new address in 2022. A sprawling 70-year-old bungalow — flanked by tall trees and bathed in sunlight — on Rutland Gate.
Lata wanted this space to have a soul, with craft at its core. And this is what she keeps in mind while curating collections. Holding up a brilliant pink tunic by Sartorial by Swati she traces her hand through the Manipuri embroidery work on it.
“Swati is a textile designer from Mumbai and her forte is dyeing,” she adds, pulling out a kaftan with ombre dye. This is craft with a modern touch, she says. The store is also bringing back Anand Kabra after almost eight years.
“He used be one of our bestsellers. He was so experimental,” adds Lata. Studio Renn will showcase its jewellery, along with some pieces made specially for Collage, and Suket Dhir will be back with his c.