Juby Mcdonald
Founder and Creative Head Juby Mcdonald
The Indian woman is no longer afraid of experimenting with her dressing
Juby Mcdonald offers women ready-to-wear collections online. Juby Mcdonald, founder and creative head of the brand talks about her experience with fashion markets all over the world, and other issues with Fibre2Fashion.com
What does your label design? Do you only deal in Indian womanswear or do you also deal in menswear? What inspires you to design for India?
Juby McDonald is known for its range of women’s ready-to-wear using the best material, mainly exotic pure silks and exquisite trimmings sourced from around the world. The detailed and impeccable quality in craftsmanship makes this label a coveted luxury purchase.
Our current collection speaks of fine silhouettes, defined cuts, sequinned outfits, intricate work and a vibrant yet classy colour palette.
At this stage, we do not design for men, but it is on the cards.
I am inspired with all things Indian, mainly the intricate use of beading, embroidery and colour. I grew up watching Indian women in elegant saris, even while doing household chores. Many of my designs are inspired by the humble sari and how a piece of fabric draped on a woman can be the most elegant fashion the world has witnessed.
You recently forayed into the Indian fashion market. How was your experience?
Our experience with the Indian fashion scene has been nothing but inspiring. The first thing that comes to my mind when India is mentioned, is colour. The texture and colour in everything you see in India - from food to festivals to textiles to homes - is unique to this beautiful country. Colour influences a lot of my designs, and it was only a matter of time before we entered the Indian market. We are absolutely certain that we will enjoy success here. We are one hundred percent committed to making women feel on top of the world.
What are your views on the Indian fashion scene?
As someone who has spent most of her life outside India, when we talk of Indian fashion we do not think of jeans and T-shirts for women. Bright saris pop up in our mind. The actual Indian scene is very different from an outsider’s perception. Today, we see saris and westernwear trends on the street. I have noticed that Indian women are no longer afraid to experiment with fashion choices. They are bold, stylish and amongst the most well-dressed women. Juby McDonald creates fashion for women who know what they want, and this pretty much sums up an Indian woman.
What do you believe is the current trend when it comes to fashion in India?
In westernwear, Indian women will be seen in a lot of jewel-toned outfits. Reds and blacks will remain in trend. We are expecting a lot of metallic and sequinned fabrics.
For ethnic Indian trend, comfort is the key. Fusion of a singlet over dhoti pants and lungi-style skirts is a no-brainer. Kurtas with leggings or palazzos are expected to be a huge trend.
Do you think e-selling is better than brick-and-mortar retailing as the world is now buying online?
Our products are sold exclusively online. Women are busy, and online shopping is an easy way to own an outfit or brand that they have always loved, without making the effort of a trip to the store. The online shopping trend proves that we are at par with the world and willing to change and make it easier for our clients to own a Juby McDonald design.
Online shopping is catching up in India, mainly with the youth. With easy exchanges and returns, there is no excuse.
How is the Indian fashion market different from other markets of the world?
Indian fashion has seen an influence from western countries in the last ten years. Globalisation and technological advances have exposed Indian men and women to the western way of life, and thereby their fashion.
For international luxury brands, India is no longer a testing ground. It is now viewed as a lucrative market at par with China, which occupies the top spot. This is no small feat for a young country like India. Clothing has always played a big role in Indian tradition. Gifting and receiving clothes are an integral part of any festival or wedding.
Indian women are not afraid of change. More women are working outside their homes, and their taste in fashion has evolved drastically. India's middle and elite class are well travelled and in sync with global fashion and trends. This fashion consciousness is usually combined with a traditional Indian touch. It is what makes them unique. Indian fashion is also greatly influenced by fashion showcased in the Hindi film industry, which is in a fabulous space right now.
How has your experience been with NRIs in Australia? Are foreigners interested in your brand?
We do not limit our brands to NRIs alone. Our main client geographies include Australia, the United Kingdom and Singapore and countries like South Africa and Dubai. We are now planning to launch in India, and this is an exciting time for our brand.
What do NRIs prefer in Australia?
NRIs in Australia dress like any other Australian. They wear local trends. They also love a lot of ethnicwear in western cuts for traditional occasions.
Do you take inspiration from Indian designers?
We are always inspired by each other. Designers like Rohit Bal, Masaba Gupta and Manish Arora are a great source of inspiration.
How do you foresee your business growing? What are your plans for expansion?
We have received immense confidence from India. We are in the process of discussions for tie-ups with exclusive multidesigner stores and online portals to make our range easily available in India.
What is your forecast for other designers who also cater to customers globally?
We will see a lot of white and jewel-toned swimwear and peekaboo throws. Dresses with off-shoulder, frilly sleeves accompanied by a halter neck strap, knife pleats and metallic fabrics in oranges and reds will top the charts.
We will be seeing a lot of quirky and wicked accessories this season. A big one will be the shoulder-grazing earrings. Buy two different pairs and wear one each for a dramatic look. Or pick old favourites from your existing jewellery box.
Metallic Grecian necklaces, headbands and cuffs will be seen all over. Fine body jewellery with an X shape reaching the waist or hips will be the most attention-grabbing piece you will wear this summer.
Published on: 06/05/2016
DISCLAIMER: All views and opinions expressed in this column are solely of the interviewee, and they do not reflect in any way the opinion of Fibre2Fashion.com.
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