NOVICA Artisan Neha Sharma
Neha Sharma
I was born and brought up in Delhi. Ever since I was a child, I've had a very friendly nature and I used to make lots of friends. Maybe people wanted to be friends with me because I had a good sense of humor and I'd make them laugh all the time. I feel laughter is the best medicine — one should always be happy and take each day as it comes. And that's exactly what I do.
I've been designing for few years now and I find my biggest inspiration in my parents. I learned the art of designing from them — they export clothing and I used to work with them. Most of the time, apparel is based on the buyer's demand and choice. However, the creative aspect is what attracts me. Every time I see a new collection, ideas to create something different run quickly through my head. I'd get so excited! Sometimes I even get a design or two stitched by the tailor. I always wanted to put my hand into designing.
"One day, I designed a few garments and showed them to my parents. They loved them! This is how my journey into the designing world started.
"I get a lot of inspiration from travel — the different cultures and tradition, and the people I meet. While I design the styles, my parents' production team creates them. My mother and father support me a great deal and I am so thankful to them.
"My designs cater to all age groups. There is something for everyone and this is what I love about my designs. In one collection, I might have a young flirty dress and also have a very sober blouse for a married woman. I love to mix fabrics, colors and trims. I also do a lot of embroidery work in different colors that add to the beauty of the collection.
"I work mostly with good quality cotton, polyester and viscose sourced from all over India. None of the fabric materials are recycled. I use azo-free dyes. "Apart from designing, I love dancing. In fact, I went to New York for a year to train in dancing, and my love for dance will continue as long as I live. When I'm not working, I dance. It's a great stress buster. It brings peace and calmness to my inner being. I also love theater and have high hopes for making it big in that field as well.
"One day, I dream of having a small boutique to feature my own garments. In addition, I would love to design shoes one day — I love shoes with a passion!
"Life is not a bed of roses. We all have difficult moments that pull us down at times, but I'm not one to let anything keep me down for long. I have always fought back and emerged as a winner. I feel life is too short and we should enjoy every moment."