Imphal: Wearing beautiful clothes has always been a prerogative for both men and women in Manipur. In fact ancient records tell of not only queens spending hours to bedazzle the gathering, but also of kings who would be decked up in dazzling rich folds of specially embroidered clothes. These upcoming fashion designers, many of them formally trained or possessing a degree of sorts, have been trying to make their mark in the world of clothes here, as exemplified by the many fashion shows that have been staged in the last few years. Perhaps it would not be wrong to say that the boost in fashion designing came with the spurt of beauty pageants in the state. From Miss Manipur to Miss Freshers in a college, beauty pageants have almost become a mandatory part of life in the state, with almost every ethnic community, every locality and every institution hosting a beauty pageant for one cause or the other. Recently a multi-level marketing institution, famous throughout India, and an international religious institution joined the ranks and organised a fashion show in the state. Not to speak about the status of Manipuri models ,hard core fashion lovers in Manipur tried their best in producing their own creations in every front.

     "Fabrics of Manipur couldn't reach other parts of the country as it is confined to the region only, so my motive is to export the indigenous Manipuri fabrics with my designs to the outside world so that our way of dresses could be used in their way of day-to- day life," revealed Neetu Akoijam, a fashion designer. She added, "I know at the initial stage my dream couldn't be fruitful but I believe fabrics of Manipur will definitely go beyond imagination with a regional touch, after mixing it up it with other suitable fabrics of the other parts so that it could suit their way of life". Also, a number of fashion and modeling institutions have come up in Imphal. "Prospects of Modelling as a career in Manipur are there though it is just the begining here.However in view of the coming up of more designers and sponsors,we the models have an opportunity to take part in their shows twice a month," said Premee, a model. But the fashion fever here is yet to gain a proper direction or a market. Most of the fashion designers here tap into the already existing traditional clothing designs and make a few innovations. But in time, fashion and models from Manipur are sure to go places.
-June 24, 2004

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