Cool Cuts

Here’s one high street designer who aspires to dress ordinary working women. Irene See,the 31-year-old Malaysian of the one-year-old label Chic Yamada is now eager to expand her business in India. A self-trained fashion designer,See,who started operations in India this May says her designs are inspired by the regular working woman. “I design for real characters,for women on the go. The collection is for confident women who love to express their individuality. There are outfits for an outgoing working girl,a bolder range for a funky 18-year-old and even an elegant line for the 35-plus woman. It’s a a fun brand inspired by Japanese design with a bit of a New Yorker spirit,” says See,who was in Delhi to meet her buyers,understand the Indian market and draw inspiration from local designers .

See,who already sells out of stores like White,Swapan-Seema in Delhi and Vachi in Kolkata,is now in talks with Ogaan and has plans to enter her collection in boutiques in malls.

Her latest spring-summer collection has an interesting melange of styles. There is a militant top in a school skirt grey,with golden zippers and buttons,a grungy high-waisted skirt,a pretty belted dress in green,with a pink bow,paired with neon pink pumps. The collection is priced at Rs 4,000 upwards. “The line is inspired by a spring garden,” she says,explaining the use of pop colours. “What appeals to me is telling the story behind the creation,” says See,who worked with Reebok Malaysia for two years,gathering experience in marketing and operations before quitting and setting up the brand. Another basic line has singlets and tees and is pegged at Rs 2,500 upwards. In UK,See retails to Well Cultivated,an online store known for eco friendly clothing.