Renowned Naga designer Velhousa Movi is a known face in the fashion industry, a defining moment for the designer was winning the North East Ethnic Fashion in 2014. His collection speaks volumes on his love for traditional fabric and design, and his aim is to give customers a sense of confidence through his pieces.
In a chit chat with Eastern Mirror’s “Style Spot” Velhousa shares his journey within the world of fashion.
EASTERN MIRROR: What inspired you to become a fashion designer? Tell us your journey.
Velhousa Movi: During my earlier years I was not aware what fashion was. But television drew me towards the fashion lifestyle. The attention that television got me towards fashion did not stop there as I was inspired by renowned fashion designer Rosou Rhi. With his advice and career support, I pursued my fashion studies and with his guidance and blessing from God’s Grace I am living my passion today.
My journey was not good I would say as I struggled during the initial years of my career and I still believe I have a long way to go.
With patience I have reached this far and with time and my approach towards the industry is changing for the better and I am grateful to God for the call he has directed me towards and living my days as a designer. So far so good (hehehe).
EASTERN MIRROR: What was your first big break in the industry?
Velhousa Movi: Winning the Best in creativity award during my graduation at Government Polytechnic Kohima was my first big break in the Industry as this award opened doors for me.
EASTERN MIRROR: What kind of attitude do you try to communicate through your designs? What is your style statement?
Velhousa Movi: Confidence is what I try to communicate through my designs and make people comfortable in their own skin. Ethnic fusion is what I love to illustrate and I would say ethnic touch is my style statement.
EASTERN MIRROR: Do you prefer designing for the male or female market?
Velhousa Movi: I prefer designing for both markets because everybody loves to look good. I would not leave the opportunity to work on both markets when I have the ability to labor for both and make anyone look good and feel proud about themselves. The present generation both female and male are very spirited in the fashion world, particularly to make themselves look good.
EASTERN MIRROR: What changes has the world of fashion brought into your life?
Velhousa Movi: Fashion not only changed my approach towards good judgment with dressing. But it has also changed my personality, attitude and has also dragged me to a better social life.
EASTERN MIRROR: Nagaland fashion designers still have a long way to go. What’s your vision for Nagaland’s fashion houses?
Velhousa Movi: Designers patiently work with sincerity and Nagaland is the most fashionable state where creativity is innate, but the state is still lacking because of economic problems, especially in the fashion industry. We need to go ahead to balance the measure of buyers and production to excel in the fashion industry.
