They created India’s first luxury swimwear brand Shivan & Narresh, launched in Cannes at Mare di Moda with their 100 per cent stitch-free swimwear.
They have since won a clutch of awards the world over. Designers Narresh Kukreja and Shivan Bhatiya have made swimwear both fashionable and wearable for the Indian woman.
They present their Naïve Cruise resort wear at Evoluzione in the city. The collection combines innovative styles with bold colours. Even though the focus of Shivan & Narresh is swimwear, they have created skirts, shorts, even saris around it.
The lycra sari and the bikini sari are two of the brand’s most talked about creations. They’re sleek, smart and sophisticated.
“The bikini sari has been endorsed by many actors, such as Bipasha Basu, Neha Dhupia and Shilpa Shetty. There are pockets to keep your mobile phone and the sari doesn’t stain,” says Narresh, who was in the city last week.
Innovation the key He adds that the bikini sari is meant for those who want to be well-turned out, trendy and yet get ready quickly.
“On the beach, you start your day with a swimsuit, in the afternoon you team it with Palazzo trousers and wear a sari over your bikini.”
The duo also specialises in jewellery, which are leather based.
Shivan learned the art of leather corsetry and accessories and Narresh specialised in women’s wear at the National Institute of Fashion Technology, New Delhi. “Even as students we used to love designing swimsuits and we won a number of awards for swimwear. Eventually, these awards got us scholarships to study in Milan and Rome.”
Narresh and Shivan started their brand in Europe, but then moved back to India in 2009 and debuted at the 2010 Lakme Fashion Week Summer Resort, Mumbai.
“In India we decided to start with ready-to-wear swimwear. We are known for our 100 per cent stitch-free swimwear and even in our ready-to-wear swimwear not a single stitch can be seen on the surface.”
Through their prêt and made-to-measure swimsuit services, the duo has evolved a unique style for Indian women.
“Most of the measurements followed are either American or European, which isn’t an ideal fit for Indian women. We have spent a lot of time in getting the sizing right. It’s essential for us. We are proud to be an Indian swimwear brand.”
Their brand has been worn by celebrities, from Dita Von Teese and Fergie to Nicki Minaj, Padma Lakshmi and Selita Banks. The duo even designed vintage swimsuits for Ang Lee's Life of Pi .
