( That shot above? I’ve been thinking about that photograph since I moved here six years ago. It has taken me six goddamn years to produce that shot and I know it isn’t perfect but I love it. Don’t wait so long to produce that photo you have in your head girls. Not saying “boys” because boys in India can walk around in the wee hours of the morning without worrying about being harmed for the most part. This was photographed inside the walls of my residential society and even then it took me so long to muster courage. The security guards walked by one by one, taking turns to see what was going on. I knew one of them, he asked, “Madam shoot chal rahaa hai?” I said, “Ji. Din mein toh bahut garmi hoti hai, kya karein, kaam ke liye karna padta hai.” Translation, “Madam, shoot is going on?” Me: “Yes, what to do, too hot during the day, work’s gotta be done!” It was more than 45 degrees Celsius during the day and when I was shooting, between 3:30 and 5:30 a.m., it was still 32 degrees. Some summer this is. )
CREDITS
Dress by The Pot Plant Clothing ( Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter ) They have been in the news lately, mainly because of their work in sustainable fashion. The shirt-dress I’m wearing in the above photographs is from their latest collection. All good quality, thick cotton. Embroidered with bits of recycled plastic and coconut buttons. I did find it odd that the shoulder seams weren’t really on the shoulders but a good inch forward – but it isn’t noticeable because of the similar colour of the front and back panels and you’ll see it now only because I’ve told you. Lots of slits and airy comfortable dress. I’ll be looking out for their work in the future too – good stuff.
Clutch by Krafted With Happiness ( Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter ) They make jewellery and other art objects as well, including lams, stationery and floor mats. There’s some footwear too. I love their Fringe Banjaran handbag. Lots of variety on their website where you can shop directly and reasonably priced stuff. The quality of the clutch they sent to me is quite good. As with all delicate beading and sequin work, handle with care!
Photography + Post-Production + Makeup + Styling by Naina Redhu
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