Pune,
November, 2021
The Pune based Maharshi Karve Stree Shikshan Samstha’s (MKSSS’s) School of Fashion Technology (SOFT), is inculcating the importance of sustainable and ethical fashion in the future designers within its campus via many initiatives. One such event was the recently hosted 8th edition of their two-day Green Fashion India (GFI) Conference 2021, from 25 – 26 November, 2021. In keeping with its vision to be the leading platform for exchange of ideas, information and sustainable practices in fashion, the two days of the conference included key notes and panel discussions with leading experts from India and International, debates, Interactions, design competitions for students, digital paper presentations, artisan workshops and a craft fair.
The many interactive panel discussions and contests emphasised the conference theme “Power of Roots” and empowerment through “Collaborations and Co-creations”. The theme also encouraged opportunities to Revive, Refresh and Regain, with circular economy, design dimensions, Revival of crafts in the forefront. Recycle, upcycle, reuse were the words that encouraged designers to project more slow fashion.
Indian and International fashion stalwarts and experts presented their thoughts and suggestions both on and off line, while parallel sessions like paper presentations, student competitions, artisanal workshops, brain storming sessions, installations, craft Documentary films and the very popular Fashion Quiz kept the tempo of the two days in top gear.
To encourage the crafts, the twelve artisans who displayed their products were honoured at the event, where 15 institutes from all over India and 510 students attended the two-day event.
The highlight of 8th GFI 2021 was the fashion showcase “My Own Way” created by the students and alumni of SOFT that featured collections promoting zero waste, upcycling recycling and use of organic fabrics.
“Fuck O Clock” a colourful street wear line emphasised the use of discarded bed sheets and uniforms. “Guarded Violence” highlighted multi coloured appliqués on used bedsheets, while “Kala Sara” brought into focus Godri craft for boleros, waist coats and jackets.
“Lost in Right Angles” focussed on Daboo work along with pit loom weaving. The “Ouro-Boros” collection created from upcycled school uniforms portrayed the Yin-Yang for various figures. “The Golden Healing” line designed from post-consumer waste incorporated pita work. The alumni of SOFT featured Ninoshka Alvares’ “Past Present and Future” collection, which showcased Shibori for ensembles made with zero waste, while Vishwa Shah’s “Mhysa” displayed khadi and hand-woven fabrics for men, women and kids clothing.
