Bengalureans experiment, says designer Anam Mirza

Anam Mirza, sister and stylist of tennis champion Sania Mirza, has curated and conceptualised ‘The Label Bazaar’, a one-stop-shop for accessories, ethnic wear shoes, bags and beauty needs. After eight seasons and 14 successful shows, Anam conducted a popup for the label recently at Skyye Lounge, UB City.

Metrolife spoke to the young entrepreneur to find out more.

How did the label come into existence?

We started The Label Bazaar in 2015. People often confuse it to be a clothing brand but it’s an amalgamation of designers from all across India as well as different parts of the world. We facilitate around 20-25 designers to come exhibit for a day at The Label Bazaar.

Why did you choose to be in the fashion industry, since you grew up in a household where sports played an integral part?

I have been a national level basketball player as well as a shooter. But in our house we were never forced to do things that we didn’t want to. Fashion just came naturally to me; like every other girl, I loved dressing up.

As for The Label Bazaar, my friend and I, when we were in the first year of college, decided to come up with a place where we could shop for everything related to fashion in beauty in one place in Hyderabad. Every single item there has been picked out by me and my team.

What’s your definition of fashion and what do you look for in a designer’s clothes?

It differs from designers and cities. For instance, we get a lot of embroidered heavy clothes in Hyderabad. But Bengaluru has a lot of prep and chic wear. We also look at a lot of other things. We feel that a lot of designers are really overpriced. So if you are a designer whose products are ridiculously expensive, you probably won’t be exhibited at our place because we want our shoppers to get their money’s worth.

Your sister, Sania Mirza, is the brand ambassador of The Label Bazaar. How’s your equation with her?

I’ve taken her for granted. Every time that I start something, I say, “okay cool, you’re going to be my brand ambassador” (laughs). But no, I think she personally really believes in the brand as well which is why she closely works with us.

Do the exhibited clothes belong on the ramps or are they practical wear?

It’s about being fashionable, not being generic and yet having something you can wear all the time. You come all the way and we don’t want you to leave without buying something. It’s anything and everything that you can wear at a party or anywhere.

What is your connection with Bengaluru?

We come to Bengaluru very often as one of our favourite uncles lives here.

What do you feel about the fashion scene in Bengaluru?

I feel that Bengaluru has a good price range and people here get their value for money. Another thing that I see is that they’re not much into Indian wear; it more of prep and fashionable on a daily basis. I also feel Bengalureans are ready to experiment.