In the ever-evolving world of men's fashion , one thing remains constant: the enduring appeal of classic style. Renowned designer Raghavendra Rathore , known for his impeccable tailoring and elegant designs, believes that while trends may shift, the foundation of great style lies in timeless pieces. In this conversation, Rathore delves into the art of menswear, exploring how traditional elements continue to influence modern trends and why classic fashion is always in vogue. Excerpts from an exclusive interaction with him.
Your designs, especially the Bandhgala and Jodhpur cuts , have modernized traditional Indian attire. What inspired you to reinvent these classic styles?
Reinventing the Bandhgala, a symbol of Rajasthani regalia, the brand has seamlessly blended traditional elegance with modern tailoring for over three decades. By introducing contemporary cuts and unique details, the classic silhouettes have been redefined for today's fashion landscape. Personalization lies at the heart of our approach, crafting each piece to reflect individual style preferences. Collaborating with artisans ensures authenticity, as we reimagine traditional textiles with a modern palette. Emphasizing versatility, the Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur(RRJ) Bandhgala transitions effortlessly between formal and casual settings, making it a timeless wardrobe essential.
Can you share the philosophy behind your brand, Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur, and how it reflects Indian heritage?
Rooted in Indian heritage and the rich cultural legacy of Jodhpur are the very essence of the RRJ brand. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, craftsmanship, and tradition, the brand is committed to preserving age old techniques and the enduring charm of bygone eras. Classic is timeless and with this vision, our endeavour is to create heirloom-worthy pieces, not only to encourage a conscious investment in timeless luxury but also lasting memories.
How do you balance preserving traditional craftsmanship with incorporating contemporary fashion trends in your collections?
Storytelling through design is a key – it preserves traditions and honours the rich history of our country. At RRJ, we embrace the requirements of a global landscape by integrating technological innovation and modern tools, while balancing tradition i.e., creating heritage textiles reimagined for the modern gentleman.
Having dressed various Indian royals and celebrities, how do you approach creating designs that honour individual legacies while maintaining modern appeal?
A deep dive into the client’s personal style and attention to detail is the essential approach. Each design is a mix of heritage and individuality—customized to reflect the client’s narrative, lineage and modern sensibilities. We ensure every garment becomes a timeless expression of their legacy, tradition, comfort and quiet sophistication.
What role do you believe designers play in reviving and sustaining India's traditional textiles and techniques?
Fashion serves as a powerful medium to extend cultural heritage, seamlessly blending craftsmanship with lifestyle offerings. Designers can use it as a tool to revive the old world charm. Reviving, reinventing and by being able to offer sustainable solutions to preserve the rich techniques while collaborating with local artisans to ensure authenticity and quality, the design fraternity strives to offer a bridge between tradition and innovation.
How do you approach designing for different generations of men while maintaining your brand’s identity?
The brand seamlessly balances tradition and modernity, designing for multiple generations while preserving its identity. By embracing fusion aesthetics and introducing contemporary lines like RR Blue, it appeals to younger audiences while retaining classic styles. Integrating design processes with technology enhances creativity and production efficiency, aligning with modern sensibilities. Versatile designs ensure adaptability across age groups, while a timeless aesthetic guarantees enduring brand relevance and continuity.
How has men's fashion evolved over the years, and what trends do you foresee in the near future?
It has transcended from pure functionality to a powerful form of self-expression, with a growing emphasis on personal style over fleeting trends. Today, men have access to a diverse range of styles, silhouettes, and fabrics, enabling greater sartorial freedom and individuality.
With the growing emphasis on sustainability, how do you see the future of eco-conscious fashion in men’s clothing?
With a shift toward ethical sourcing, slow fashion, and circular design, quality will take precedence over quantity. Advancements in regenerative textiles and AI-driven customization will reduce waste while enhancing personalization. Sustainability will become an industry standard, merging heritage with modern responsibility for timeless, conscious luxury – in a nutshell, a blend of sustainability with luxury and innovation.
What advice would you offer to emerging designers aiming to blend traditional elements with modern fashion sensibilities?
Stay true to your brand identity and focus on storytelling through design.
Can you share insights into your creative process when developing a new collection?
Jodhpur is a constant inspiration…the process is a deep dive into the relics of the past and a reflection of heritage clothing that the brand is synonymous with. Classic is a timeless trend season after season, resonating the ethos of the brand’s vision.
Your designs, especially the Bandhgala and Jodhpur cuts , have modernized traditional Indian attire. What inspired you to reinvent these classic styles?
Reinventing the Bandhgala, a symbol of Rajasthani regalia, the brand has seamlessly blended traditional elegance with modern tailoring for over three decades. By introducing contemporary cuts and unique details, the classic silhouettes have been redefined for today's fashion landscape. Personalization lies at the heart of our approach, crafting each piece to reflect individual style preferences. Collaborating with artisans ensures authenticity, as we reimagine traditional textiles with a modern palette. Emphasizing versatility, the Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur(RRJ) Bandhgala transitions effortlessly between formal and casual settings, making it a timeless wardrobe essential.
Can you share the philosophy behind your brand, Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur, and how it reflects Indian heritage?
Rooted in Indian heritage and the rich cultural legacy of Jodhpur are the very essence of the RRJ brand. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, craftsmanship, and tradition, the brand is committed to preserving age old techniques and the enduring charm of bygone eras. Classic is timeless and with this vision, our endeavour is to create heirloom-worthy pieces, not only to encourage a conscious investment in timeless luxury but also lasting memories.
How do you balance preserving traditional craftsmanship with incorporating contemporary fashion trends in your collections?
Storytelling through design is a key – it preserves traditions and honours the rich history of our country. At RRJ, we embrace the requirements of a global landscape by integrating technological innovation and modern tools, while balancing tradition i.e., creating heritage textiles reimagined for the modern gentleman.
Having dressed various Indian royals and celebrities, how do you approach creating designs that honour individual legacies while maintaining modern appeal?
A deep dive into the client’s personal style and attention to detail is the essential approach. Each design is a mix of heritage and individuality—customized to reflect the client’s narrative, lineage and modern sensibilities. We ensure every garment becomes a timeless expression of their legacy, tradition, comfort and quiet sophistication.
What role do you believe designers play in reviving and sustaining India's traditional textiles and techniques?
Fashion serves as a powerful medium to extend cultural heritage, seamlessly blending craftsmanship with lifestyle offerings. Designers can use it as a tool to revive the old world charm. Reviving, reinventing and by being able to offer sustainable solutions to preserve the rich techniques while collaborating with local artisans to ensure authenticity and quality, the design fraternity strives to offer a bridge between tradition and innovation.
How do you approach designing for different generations of men while maintaining your brand’s identity?
The brand seamlessly balances tradition and modernity, designing for multiple generations while preserving its identity. By embracing fusion aesthetics and introducing contemporary lines like RR Blue, it appeals to younger audiences while retaining classic styles. Integrating design processes with technology enhances creativity and production efficiency, aligning with modern sensibilities. Versatile designs ensure adaptability across age groups, while a timeless aesthetic guarantees enduring brand relevance and continuity.
How has men's fashion evolved over the years, and what trends do you foresee in the near future?
It has transcended from pure functionality to a powerful form of self-expression, with a growing emphasis on personal style over fleeting trends. Today, men have access to a diverse range of styles, silhouettes, and fabrics, enabling greater sartorial freedom and individuality.
With the growing emphasis on sustainability, how do you see the future of eco-conscious fashion in men’s clothing?
With a shift toward ethical sourcing, slow fashion, and circular design, quality will take precedence over quantity. Advancements in regenerative textiles and AI-driven customization will reduce waste while enhancing personalization. Sustainability will become an industry standard, merging heritage with modern responsibility for timeless, conscious luxury – in a nutshell, a blend of sustainability with luxury and innovation.
What advice would you offer to emerging designers aiming to blend traditional elements with modern fashion sensibilities?
Stay true to your brand identity and focus on storytelling through design.
Can you share insights into your creative process when developing a new collection?
Jodhpur is a constant inspiration…the process is a deep dive into the relics of the past and a reflection of heritage clothing that the brand is synonymous with. Classic is a timeless trend season after season, resonating the ethos of the brand’s vision.
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