jewels of fashion - well know designer globally RITU KUMAR

Ritu Kumar

Ritu Kumar is an Indian fashion designer

Born: November 11, 1944 (age 70), Amritsar

Residence: Delhi

Children: Ashvin Kumar

Education: Briarcliff College, Lady Irwin College

Label: Ritu, LABEL

An icon of the Indian Fashion industry and a frontrunner in establishing a position for India in the global forum, Ritu Kumar's contribution has been impeccable to the fashion fraternity, both nationally and internationally. With almost five decades of work for display, the designer excels in both traditional and western outfits, though ethnic attires being her specialty. She was the first women to bring the boutique culture to India, under the name "Ritu". The gradual change in the fashion scenario has also lead to a change of designs for her brand. She has kept in sync with the varying times and has effectively brought creativity and innovativeness with each collection. Ritu holds the status of being a revivalist in the fashion scenario, which has successfully bridged the gap between conservative and conventional style. 

Career and Success: Kumar began her fashion business in Kolkata, using two small tables and hand-block printing techniques. Beginning with bridal wear and evening clothes in the 1960s and 70s, she eventually moved into the international market in the subsequent two decades. As well as shops in India, Kumar's company has also opened branches in Paris, London and New York. The London branch closed after three years, in 1999. Her company's annual turnover at the time was the highest of any Indian fashion outlet, estimated at around 10 billion. In 2002 she launched the "Label" line in partnership with her son Amrish.

Fabrics and design: Kumar's focus is on natural fabrics and traditional printing and weaving techniques. She has also included Western elements in her work, but has generally not innovated beyond traditional sari designs.

In 2002 Ritu Kumar, joined by her son Amrish, launched a sub brand – LABEL. LABEL uses the established forte of traditional Indian design and converts it into a fashion oriented international product. a collection that in her words has “redefined traditional handwriting to meet the changing needs of the new generation. The inspiration of these garments is basic Indian motifs, prints and embroideries but with the usage of a wide range of western silhouettes mingled with Indian styles.

Achievements: Her book “Costumes and Textiles of Royal India” published by Christies in October 1999 chronicles the history of textiles and art design in India.

Ritu has recently been awarded the 'Indira Gandhi Priyadarshini award' for her achievements and contribution in the field of fashion. Mother Teresa, Birju Maharaj, Pt. Hari Prasad were previous recipients of this prestigious award.

To add to her achievements the French government has bestowed the prestigious award of knight of the order of arts and letters. The award is recognition of her contribution to Indian textile crafts, and traditional techniques.

Ritu Kumar, has also been awarded  the Padma Shri Award 2013, the country's fourth highest civilian award for her exceptional and distinguished service in the field of fashion, textile and craftsmanship.

Her clothes have been worn by celebrities such as Princess Diana, Madhur Jaffrey and Jemima Goldsmith.