“My approach to design has always been to be a donor because I think that’s the way nature works. If we are a representation of nature and our clothes are a representation of us, then surely we have to start creating and reacting like nature, ”says the winner. She set up her own lab in 2019 to research manufacturing, and all of her designs are made locally. The 20-year-old designer believes it was her interest in research that gave her an edge. “There has been a constant overlap of academic research and fashion design which I think has not only shaped my career, but my human element as well. For Sharma Mehta, university and aesthetics go hand in hand.

Of course, she also understands the power of stardom and how dressing on the red carpet can change the image of a fashion design house. “As an individual working in the field of sustainability, I would love to see celebrities and influencers who champion the cause, people who resonate with this donor perspective, wearing my designs. Her celebrity wishlist includes Michelle Obama, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Diipa Büller-Khosla, Dia Mirza, Anya Gupta and Aditi Mayer. “In my opinion, the concept of sustainability has very little to do with products and material things. I think it all depends on the mindset we have towards our processes, our products and our people. For me, it’s not about having a zero footprint. It’s more about being attentive to every footprint I leave behind. As for the details of the dress, it is embellished while remaining true to the minimalist identity for which her brand is known. “Unfortunately, I can’t reveal more just yet. You’ll have to wait for the big reveal in September.

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