Next Gen Fashion Designer: Aradhita Parasrampuria, Parsons

Aradhita Parasrampuria

Name of your collection: Fashion under a microscope

What is the inspiration or concept behind it?

While working in an Indian textile factory, I saw laborers exposed to toxic chemicals develop chronic respiratory issues and suffer from diseases that caused their skin to peel off. This
experience taught me the urgent need to move away from the “take-make-dispose” pattern of manufacturing.
Immediately after, I began looking for an alternative method of fabric dyeing. I discovered that ninety-nine percent of the unique genes in the human body are bacterial. Only about one percent is human. What can be more natural than dyeing fabric with competent bacteria?

How is sustainability part of your ethos?
Over the past year, I have had to force myself to consider the environmental impacts of every small decision I make. A year of nagging myself has caused me to develop habits like recycling, reusing, shopping almost exclusively at thrift stores, and walking as much as I can.
Instead of viewing sustainability as a privilege or exception I now see it as an obligation.

“I discovered that ninety-nine percent of the unique genes in the human body are bacterial. Only about one percent is human. What can be more natural than dyeing fabric with competent bacteria?”

How do you see the current situation changing your expectations/path?
A positive side effect of the devastating pandemic has been the drop in pollution. Air, Water, and wildlife all seem to be responding to these changes. I hope that we continue to value the environment and invest in products that help us move towards a sustainable future. The current situation has given me more of an incentive to push my design beliefs forward

Where do you hope to be in 3 years?
The pandemic that brought to light how fragile the fashion system is. The good news is that due to increased demand some seamstresses and patternmakers are finally being paid a livable wage. I hope to work for an ethical fashion brand trying to make materials of the future that are innovative and even revolutionary when they are produced in that they predict the need for the future while solving contemporary social, economic, and environmental issues.

Three things keeping you sane right now
• Sticking my head out of a window, every so often
• Challenging myself to complete reading one book a week
• Painting

If you could dress anyone in the world who would it be and why?
I would love to dress Lizzo. Her musical talents are undeniable but I think she’s also a game-changer in the fashion industry. She radiates self-love and body positivity. I would love to dress a strong, unapologetic woman like her.

Find Aradhita at @aradhita.p | https://www.aradhitapara.com/