Over the years, there have been designers who have changed their aesthetics and visuals without losing their signature essence. One of them is Siddartha Tytler, who is known for his visually stunning appliqué work, distinctive designs, and beautifully done surface embellishment with the right amount of drama. Ahead of his showcase at India Couture Week presented by FDCI in New Delhi, we sat down with the designer to talk exclusively about his collection.
ELLE: Tell us about your collection, the inspiration, and the elements in it.
Siddartha Tytler: My latest collection, Caligula’s Feast, is inspired by the infamous Roman Emperor Caligula, known for his self-indulgence and extravagance. The collection features rich jewel tones like maroon, emerald, and navy, highlighted with gold and gunmetal embellishments. We’ve incorporated luxurious fabrics, intricate embroidery, and bold silhouettes to capture the essence of Caligula’s decadent world. Elements such as surfacing crystals, rhinestones, applique, and dramatic drapery bring this vision to life, creating a modern twist on historical opulence.
ELLE: In three words, describe your couture week collection.
Siddartha Tytler: Opulent, Extravagant, Debaucherous.
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ELLE: What was the process of conceptualising this collection? How many looks are there in terms of menswear and womenswear?
Siddartha Tytler: Conceptualising Caligula’s Feast was an exhilarating journey into the world of ancient Rome. The process involved extensive research into the opulent and passionate lifestyle of Caligula, blending historical elements with contemporary design. The collection features a total of 84 looks. Each look is meticulously crafted to embody the grandeur and drama of the era, with a modern touch.
ELLE: When we think of Siddartha Tytler, we visualise maximalism, embellishments, and drama. How does that feel to you?
Siddartha Tytler: While it feels incredibly rewarding to be recognised for maximalism, embellishments, and drama, I do feel there’s also a sense of sensuality and darkness in my designs. These elements are at the core of my design philosophy. I thrive on creating pieces that are bold, opulent, and tell a story. Seeing people resonate with this vision and appreciating the intricate details and drama in my designs is truly fulfilling.
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ELLE: How does it feel to watch your sketches come to life during the fashion show?
Siddartha Tytler: Witnessing my sketches come to life on the runway is a blend of emotions: excitement, pride, anticipation, and a touch of nervousness. Over the years, this feeling has evolved from pure exhilaration to a more profound sense of accomplishment. The journey from sketch to final creation involves so much hard work and collaboration, and seeing it all come together during a fashion show is a moment of immense gratification. It reminds me of why I fell in love with fashion in the first place.
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ELLE: I have seen your previous few shows in person; music seems to be an important factor of the showcase. So, if your collection were a song, which one would it be and why?
Siddartha Tytler: If Caligula’s Feast were a song, it would be the soundtrack of 300. The powerful, bold, and confident tones of this soundtrack perfectly encapsulate the collection’s essence. It evokes a sense of grandeur and strength, much like the opulent and dramatic pieces in the collection, making it an ideal musical representation.
