(Left) His collection; (right) Parkhar Rao.
In the next London Fashion Week, which begins on September 12, the designer Prakhar Raofounder of Zero Tolerance, will be showing his work on September 13. It will be presented as part of the Indian Medusa X Collective Fashion Week and the city catwalk. She will show 11 unisex garments from her collection DIFFICULT.
In a question and answer session with The times are now digitaltalked about his collection and more.
Q: What inspired the concept behind your unisex collection and how do you think it aligns with the broader theme of Medusa X Fashion Week and the City? What is the theme about?
The idea is to make pieces that are inclusive, regardless of any parameter, including gender. If you can achieve that piece, it should be yours, and that’s what inspired me to create unisex pieces.
I think Medusa has presented the best selection of designers in the past, regardless of gender, and I’m thrilled to be part of the collective this season. Finding the right people who trust your vision is crucial, and that’s what Medusa has meant to me: it’s about showcasing high-quality pieces that anyone can wear. For me, it was the perfect choice.
Our collection is inspired by breaking boundaries, just like Medusa herself. Medusa X Fashion Week The theme is centered around transformation and power, which aligns with our unisex approach. We aim to reflect the dynamic energy of the city by embracing fluidity and inclusivity in fashion.
Q: Can you walk us through the 11 looks you are presenting? What message or narrative do you hope to convey with each piece?
All the pieces are made by artisans from the Lucknow region, including Barabanki, on the outskirts of Lucknow, where weavers hand-weave and spin our fabrics. Each piece features authentic details like Aari and Zardozi – I am showcasing the heritage of Lucknow in a contemporary context. This is something I have wanted to do from the beginning – it is a very special connection because it comes from the heart – it is entirely made in Lucknow by artisans whose families have practiced these techniques for generations. The looks are bold and authentic. Through this collection, I want to put the artisans and their karma in the spotlight. From my journey so far, I have realised that there is high-quality craftsmanship in India. Mixed with all the influences I’ve had, from movies to games, from how people dressed in old photos to the music I listen to, it’s all influenced this collection.
Each of the 11 looks represents empowerment and self-expression, combining strength and vulnerability. India is often seen as having a large population and cheap labour, and being a manufacturing hub. But we go way beyond that. I am fascinated by the sense of style and storytelling, and I have combined these to create memorable looks, which allow everyone to feel confident and powerful, regardless of gender. I enjoy presenting my cultural heritage in a contemporary context, which is why I am here to represent and have fun!
Q: How do you see unisex fashion evolving in the future and what role do you think it plays in challenging traditional fashion norms?
Unisex fashion is becoming more and more common and challenges the idea that clothing should be gender-specific. I believe it is a model that promotes inclusivity and offers versatile and limitless options for everyone.
Q: What challenges did you face when designing this collection, particularly in balancing the aesthetic with the unisex theme?
The main challenge was ensuring that each piece would appeal to all genders without sacrificing style. We focused on fit, fabric, and design to create pieces that would flatter everyone, while minimizing industrial waste and preserving traditional craftsmanship, all while pushing our creative quest into unisex fashion.
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