Kedhar Gawde (a.k.a. KD) lives and breathes fashion, and plays multiple roles in the fashion space – choreographer, consultant and teacher. His latest achievement — the first Indian Show Director to direct in New York Fashion Week 2013 for South African designer, David Tlale.

Kedhar Gawde
Kedhar Gawde

Yes! Am still on a fashion high! The experience was extremely enriching. It was thrilling to be a part of New York Fashion Week (NYFW) and see and understand their style of working first hand. Being the first Indian show director to do the show at NYFW is a feeling that can’t be entirely described in words, more so the feedback I got after show just sealed the deal.

New York Fashion Week
New York Fashion Week

NYFW is an institution of showcasing talent from around the world. New York is the melting pot of so many cultures. In NYFW one comes across designers of every sensibility. It is an unbiased platform regardless of ethnicity or background.

The NYFW has set very high standards of quality. Every person has a cut out role and works in sync with each other. It is a well-oiled machine that performs brilliantly. There is no scope for glitches. Other shows have a leeway of 15-20 minutes. There is no chaos or drama backstage. NYFW works on a very fixed schedule, right from rehearsals and fittings to the actual show. It is unlike anything I have done or been a part of in the past.

Kedhar with David
Kedhar with David

The Inspiration and the Muse:

I directed the show for South African designer, David Tlale. David’s show reflected the collaboration between two countries. India and South Africa have a huge cultural connect for years. David’s clothes too were equally inspiring. His clothes showcased South African designs through an Indian silhouette.

If it’s New York Fashion Week, do it differently!

I chose a presentation format instead of the usual runway showing. On a runway one only gets a glimpse of the garment on the model for a very limited time. In this show the models were stationary and guests move around the room to see the pieces. This way, they can take a closer look at the garment for as long as they wanted.

New York Fashion Week
New York Fashion Week

Go Desi!

This show too had my signature touch, which is incorporating an Indian element, even on an international platform. In this case, it was the music. The Indian perspective was showcased through the show’s music track. I used an Indian track and infused it with a predominant Western overlay.

You can follow Kedar on twitter at @Kedhar333