After some confusion at where and when we were meeting Look-at-her were finally able to meet up with the lovely Meera Sharma. A young designer that we are really excited about, following her graduation from the University of Westminster (yes, she was a part of that sensational graduate show) Meera has been focusing on launching her collection.
Meera, what made you decide you wanted to go in to Fashion?
I have always loved fashion from a young age. I love the fact that I can express my personality through clothing. It is great that I can now share my view on fashion with people and have women wear my creations.
Fashion is such an expressive subject and everyone interprets it in a different way. As they say ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder,’ this certainly applies to fashion as what one person thinks is fashionable and beautiful another person will not, and this is what I love about fashion. Some people like my designs and some people may not and I love that!
Where do you take your inspiration from?
I can be inspired by anything be a garment or a picture.
Tell us a little bit about your current collection?
My graduate collection is based on the Female Superhero who, to me, is the ultimate woman – sexy, powerful and not afraid to stand up for what is right. The female superhero lives a double life and I translated this into my collection with the contrasting fabrics and cut outs. My collection also features straps that allow for the garment to be styled in a variety of ways.
Which is your favourite piece (that you have created)?
It is quite difficult to choose a favourite piece as I have put the same amount of effort and work into all pieces. Saying that I do like the leather shirt with the cape back.
What is your creative process?
My creative process usually consists of being inspired by a garment or an image. I then start to drape fabric on the mannequin and my creations usually come from this. I have to be in the right mood to design and I am not normally one to sketch on paper, as I feel restrained by doing this.
What, do you think, are the best and worst things about being a young designer in London?
The best thing is that you are surrounded by so many inspiring places, be the vintage markets to the museums, and of course being surrounded by the many famous designers. I suppose the worst thing is the cost of living in London and amount of competition from many aspiring designers.
What do you do with your spare time?
If I am not designing then I am on Twitter, Tumblr and spend time blogging. I am also an online journalist so contribute articles to a selection of websites.
Who are your design Idols?
Roberto Cavalli and Versace. I just love their sexy designs and the bold prints that they both use!
If you could design a piece for anyone, who would it be?
It would have to be young Hollywood; preferably Nicole Richie. This usually surprises people but Nicole is one of my style icons. I admire how she has completely reinvented herself without loosing her personality.
If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be?
I wouldn’t mind collaborating with Adidas or a department store such as Macy’s.
Which other young designers do you admire?
Alexander Wang. He has developed such a brilliant company at such a young age his story is admirable.
Where would you like to be in 10 years time?
Hopefully I will have my own fashion empire – a design house with offices based in London and Los Angeles. A bit like Rachel Zoe, she has her styling services and then she has a design company. I would also like to have my own fashion magazine too!
What would you like to be remembered for?
My creative and innovative designs. I certainly want to leave my mark on the fashion and entertainment industry.