Roopa Pemmaraju: Sustainable Elegance
Photo courtesy of Roopa Pemmaraju
In the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends come and go, one designer, Roopa Pemmaraju, is weaving a different narrative—one of sustainability, cultural richness, and timeless elegance. Roopa Pemmaraju, the creative force behind her eponymous brand, takes center stage in the fashion world with her unique approach to design, inspired by her Indian heritage and a deep appreciation for global cultures. Join us as we explore the world as interpreted by the designer, where every garment is a work of art and a celebration of the Earth’s beauty.
Cultivating Artisan-Made Fashion with Global Influence
Roopa Pemmaraju’s fashion journey is deeply rooted in her commitment to sustainability and the artisans who handcraft her garments. Inspired by her mother, grandmother, and Indian roots, Roopa’s collections pay homage to diverse cultures worldwide. From her design studio in New York City to her private atelier in India, Roopa’s creations are a fusion of multicultural influences, blending indigenous Australian art with Indian textiles, resulting in a visually stunning and culturally rich aesthetic. In her latest collection, Roopa invites us into a world of lush gardens and natural beauty. Drawing from her childhood in India, where she was surrounded by breathtaking gardens and scenic landscapes, this collection is a tribute to Earth’s splendor. With intricate designs that mirror the vibrancy of nature, Roopa’s pieces remind us of the importance of preserving our planet’s beauty.
As a fashion entrepreneur, Roopa envisions a fashion industry that prioritizes sustainability and ethical practices. Her goal is to inspire a shift towards circular and regenerative practices, responsible material sourcing, and ethical labor practices. Roopa’s vision is to foster a culture of transparency and accountability in the industry. Roopa believes that customers play a crucial role in promoting sustainability and ethics in the fashion industry. By supporting brands that prioritize these values and making informed choices, consumers can drive change. Roopa empowers customers by providing transparency in its supply chain and encouraging mindful consumption through timeless, artisan-made pieces.
Here at The Garnette Report, we had the chance to talk to Roopa Pemmaraju and learn what her label is all about.
Zoey: Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your latest collection? Are there any specific cultural influences or themes that you explored?
Roopa Pemmaraju: Our latest collection tells the tale of a garden. Gardens and nature have always had a deep connection into our work. I grew up in India surrounded by beautiful gardens and scenery and putting this into my work allows me to transport myself back to that as well as bring that experience to others around the world. This collection reminds us of the beauty of our planet and the importance of nurturing and restoring the beauty of this garden which is Earth.
Zoey: Sustainability is a core value of your brand. Could you share some specific ways in which Roopa Pemmaraju ensures sustainable and eco-friendly practices in its fashion production?
Roopa Pemmaraju: Our biggest mission is paying our artisans livable wages and providing them with safe working conditions. We want to create an environment that artisans can be happy to come into every day and know that they will be able to provide for their families and be appreciated for their work. Another one of our sustainable practices include using natural fibers and processes that are carbon neutral. I source them myself throughout different parts of India and bring it back for our artisans to hand weave into these illustrious fabrics that become the creations that we make. We also do not have stock in our atelier ready to be shipped immediately, we believe in slow fashion: creating products when they are ordered to avoid waste. The clothing at Roopa Pemmaraju is expensive, and that’s due to all these factors.
Photo courtesy of Roopa Pemmaraju
Zoey: Your collections are designed by women, for women. How do you believe this approach enhances the uniqueness of your fashion offerings?
Roopa Pemmaraju: Designing collections by women, for women, is a cornerstone of our brand’s identity. This allows us to offer fashion that is full of empathy, understanding and authenticity. As women, we have a more intimate knowledge of each other and that allows us to create designs that resonate with a diverse range of women. This allows us to foster a sense of empowerment and representation not only to our customers but also active creators and decision-makers in the fashion industry.
Zoey: Could you describe the color palette and the types of fabrics used in your latest collection, especially in relation to the current season?
Roopa Pemmaraju: Our latest collection includes a lot of natural and airy fabrics as well as bright yet earthy colors. Some of the fabrics include cotton, specifically schiffli and hakoba as well as silk, linen. Since we are telling the tale of a garden, we wanted to use natural earth-made fibers to embody our story. We also chose vibrant, earthy colors you would find in nature to nurture our story even further.
Zoey: You mentioned the use of handloom weaving and digital printing in your production process. Could you explain how these techniques align with your commitment to sustainability?
Roopa Pemmaraju: Handloom weaving is a traditional craft that relies on manual techniques rather than energy-intensive machinery. This allows us to reduce our carbon footprint and conserve precious resources. Additionally it provides livelihood to skilled artisans allowing us to support local communities and preserve their craftsmanship. On the other hand, digital printing allows us to minimize wastage of materials and water and requires fewer resources compared to conventional methods. It also allows us flexibility to produce small batches which reduces excess inventory and potential waste.
Zoey: Social responsibility is a crucial aspect of your brand. Can you provide examples of how Roopa Pemmaraju supports the communities it operates in, especially in Bangalore, India?
Roopa Pemmaraju: We always put our communities in Bangalore first. They are the ones producing our craft with their hands and we make sure they are given the right environment and fairly appreciated for their work. We make sure to collaborate with local artisans providing them with sustainable employment opportunities and fair wages. We also prioritize sourcing materials locally, contributing to the growth of the regional economy. Additionally, we provide safe working conditions and fair treatment to all workers involved in the production process. Our biggest mission is providing them with stable employment so that they can provide for themselves and their families so we have even branched into other markets such as homeware and accessories in order to continue collaborating and giving jobs to these people.
Zoey:You mentioned that each garment is treated as a piece of art. How does this artistic approach contribute to the uniqueness and quality of Roopa Pemmaraju’s fashion?
Roopa Pemmaraju: Treating each garment as a piece of art is fundamental to our brand and quality. This approach infuses every design with meticulous attention to detail and commitment to craftsmanship that goes beyond conventional mass production. Each one of our garments is made to last and be cherished for a long time- just like art. Each stitch, each embellishment is executed with a level of care and precision akin to that of paintings or sculptures. This dedication to artistry ensures that every piece not only meets the highest standard of quality but also possesses character and personality. It results in fashion that transcends trends and embodies a timeless elegance.
Zoey: As a fashion entrepreneur, what changes or improvements do you hope to see in the fashion industry, particularly regarding sustainability and ethical practices?
Roopa Pemmaraju: As a fashion entrepreneur, my vision for the industry revolves around driving a shift towards sustainability and ethical practices. I want to witness and inspire others in the industry to transform how fashion is produced and consumed. This entails a move towards circular and regenerative practices, where materials are sources responsibly, waste is minimized, and harnessing methods that reduce environmental impact. I also envision a heightened commitment to ethical labor practices, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions and respect for the dignity of every worker within the production and supply chain. I hope to foster a culture of transparency and accountability where brands are held to rigorous standards and consumers are empowered.
Zoey: In your view, how can customers play a role in promoting sustainability and ethics in the fashion industry, and how does Roopa Pemmaraju empower them to make choices aligned with their values?
Roopa Pemmaraju: They can make the biggest impact by supporting brands that prioritize these values. Our brand empowers customers by providing them with a transparent view of our supply chain and production processes so they can make informed decisions. Furthermore, by greeting timeless, artisan-made pieces that emphasize quality and durability, we encourage a mindset of mindful consumption- encouraging them to invest in pieces that endure over time rather than succumb to fast fashion brands.
Photo courtesy of Roopa Pemmaraju
Zoey: In your view, how can customers play a role in promoting sustainability and ethics in the fashion industry, and how does Roopa Pemmaraju empower them to make choices aligned with their values?
Roopa Pemmaraju: They can make the biggest impact by supporting brands that prioritize these values. Our brand empowers customers by providing them with a transparent view of our supply chain and production processes so they can make informed decisions. Furthermore, by greeting timeless, artisan-made pieces that emphasize quality and durability, we encourage a mindset of mindful consumption- encouraging them to invest in pieces that endure over time rather than succumb to fast fashion brands.
As a fashion entrepreneur, Roopa Pemmaraju envisions a fashion industry that prioritizes sustainability and ethical practices. Her goal is to inspire a shift towards circular and regenerative practices, responsible material sourcing, and ethical labor practices. Roopa’s vision is to foster a culture of transparency and accountability in the industry. In a world where fashion is often criticized for its environmental and ethical impact, Roopa Pemmaraju offers a refreshing perspective—a brand that marries artistry, sustainability, and a celebration of global cultures. Through her commitment to these values, Roopa Pemmaraju paves the way for a more conscientious and compassionate fashion industry.