Today on the blog, we feature, Darshna Lal, principal designer and founder of Teori; a clothing label for women that captures the essence of purity with a contemporary take on heritage. The label offers the finest Indo western silhouettes made from hand woven textiles. Meet the maker at the February 2020 edition of By Hand from the Heart Makers Market in Chennai.
Tell us a bit about yourself. Why did you become a maker? Why is making so important to you?
Darshna Lal – Creative Director & Founder of Teori. Passion for clothes is whats driven me to start this brand. Always wanted to create clothes for women coming from different paths of life, I did not want it to be just basic shirts & kurtas, adding elements of style & functionality to the apparel is what we as a brand are working towards.
How did you begin TEORI?
TEORI as a brand started its humble journey with a basic workshop come retail space and then we ventured into online operations which now constitutes a major portion of our workings. As a brand we want to focus on something which is limited & sustainable. We want to give classic international style a Indian touch with our authentic handwoven fabrics.
What is the story behind your brand name?
TEORI – The brand name means HANDWOVEN in Japanese Language. The concept of the brand is based on Garments sourced from natural fibers which are predominantly handwoven. Teori feels that cotton or any handwoven fabric is still underrated in terms of designing glocal silhouettes and patterns due to apprehensions of it being way too subtle, not shiny which has become a nomen-clature of any party or outings. Teori as a brand is trying to redefine the styling by using all natural fibers making it very comfortable and trendy and easy to carry ensemble for all occasions.
How has your business evolved over the years?
Teori is a startup venture. It has been 2.5 years now since, we have made a beginning. We are growing steadily and working towards our fore-casted targets which we feel will be achieved shortly.
Your work space & the people you work with.
We have our own workshop to design and manufacture our clothes. We work with around 3-4 tailors and inspire them to make clothes as per our projected design and desired quality.
Your favorite work tool.
I’m totally old school always prefer Paper & Pencil.
What is currently on your work table?
Laptop, Swatches of fabrics.
What is your personal favorite pick from your label right now? And why?
Interstellar from Andromeda collection, because it’s a perfect LBD.
What are your displaying at the By Hand, From The Heart.
Assorted pieces from Andromeda, Yugen & Deglam Collection. Also Kurtis and few separates too.
Meet the Maker @
By Hand from the Heart: Makers Market – 29th Edit
7 – 8 February 2020, Friday – Saturday | 10 a.m – 9 p.m
Hanu Reddy Residences, No. 41/19, Poes Garden, Chennai 600086, India.
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