An American Sojourn

After the order was placed last season,garments from Barve’s SS ’13 collection are now available on Rent the Runway.

However,Barve isn’t the only Indian name to enjoy this distinction: Mumbai-based Rahul Mishra’s designs have also recently been on the website. For him too,the selection process was similar.

Both the designers have produced capsule collections for the site,comprising four styles each. The outfits — an array of sheath,shift and maxi dresses — have a bright and summery feel. So while Barve has worked with hues of fuchsia and turquoise blue,Mishra’s line has cheery yellow,spunky black and white,as also shades of blue and white.

The response has been encouraging. Mishra says that even though the website primarily deals in rentals,it chose to purchase the clothes from him,as opposed to offering him a commission. “It shows their commitment to our brand,” says the designer,whose dresses command a rental of up to US $115 per outfit on the site.

“In the US,sales and rentals are driven by how appealing your outfit is. As long it’s a pretty and eye-catching dress,it will attract business — and this is irrespective of the designer or brand,” says Barve.