INTERVIEW: FIOLETOWY STUDIO

Samatha Chandrashekar emerges as a transformative force, harmonizing art with purpose through her innovative work at Fioletowy Studio. Co-founding the brand with a vision grounded in empowerment and creativity, Samatha has dedicated herself to crafting a dialogue that celebrates the multifaceted nature of womanhood. With a unique background steeped in Indian culture and global influences, her designs reflect a rich narrative that resonates deeply with women around the world.

Fioletowy’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection, titled “Lamp on a Stand” / “A Town Built on a Hill,” stands as a testament to Samatha’s artistic vision, drawing inspiration from the evocative words of Matthew 5:14. This collection unveils 15 exquisite outfits that marry the opulence of European aesthetics with the rich textures of Indian textiles like silk and velvet. Each piece showcases sculpted silhouettes and intricate details, celebrating the transformative power of light—illuminating hope, resilience, and individuality in each wearer. With a distinct ability to weave together European refinement, Japanese minimalism, and the art of Indian craftsmanship, Samatha’s designs do more than merely adorn; they tell stories. Featured in prestigious fashion platforms, including Bangalore Times Fashion Week, Fioletowy Studio has established itself as a beacon of diversity and creativity. Each garment becomes an expression of identity, celebrating both the timeless artistry of cultural traditions and the allure of modern elegance.

Samatha Chandrashekar’s inspiring narrative and the innovative ethos of Fioletowy becomes an empowering tool for self-expression, resilience, and the celebration of beauty in all its forms. In this vibrant world, every stitch conveys a message of hope and every design serves as a reminder of the transformative impact that thoughtfully crafted fashion can have on our lives.

Read below our exclusive interview with Samantha Samatha Chandrashekar for Trend Privé Magazine:

Your new collection, “Lamp on a Stand,” captures a sense of vibrancy and life. Can you share the creative journey you undertook to develop this collection, from initial conceptualization to the final showcase? What were some of the key influences that shaped its direction?

Our creative journey for the Lamp on a Stand collection, marking our first international debut, has been a celebration of both European grandeur and our rich Indian heritage. We set out to craft a distinctly European collection, drawing inspiration from timeless monuments and museums, the opulent gold accents of majestic churches, and refined colors and patterns that evoke royalty. We incorporated sumptuous velvets, intricate embroidery, sequins, and delicate lace to enhance every piece—ensuring that the designs exude regal elegance and pay homage to a storied royal heritage.What truly sets this collection apart is how we’ve seamlessly woven in the vibrant textile traditions of our homeland. Coming from Karnataka in South India—a region renowned for its exquisite silks, brocades, and unique weaving techniques—we believe that silk is the very heart of couture. By sourcing only the finest, high-quality fabrics from trusted suppliers, we infuse our designs with an authentic cultural richness that effortlessly complements European aesthetics. In every piece, the dual narrative of European sophistication and Indian cultural diversity shines through, creating a collection that is not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful.Our show in Milan was a testament to this vision. From the initial fitting day to the final presentation, everything fell perfectly into place. We are immensely grateful for the unwavering support from our producer and stylist, whose guidance and dedication helped bring our creative journey to life on the international stage. I am also very thankful for my husband, who was there every step of the way—guiding me and taking care of the little one—so that I could fully focus on making the show a success. Additionally, my younger sister is the one person whose perspective I consistently seek; her insights help me understand how this generation perceives our designs and guide me in deciding whether to move forward with new creative ideas.

The interplay between European grandeur and Indian textiles in your designs is fascinating. How do you select and source your materials? Can you discuss the significance of using textiles like silk and velvet in your creations and how they enhance the overall aesthetic and message of the collection?

We believe that India is a vibrant tapestry of cultural and textile diversity. Coming from South India, specifically Karnataka, I’ve witnessed firsthand the beauty of silk—its exquisite brocades and unique weaving traditions. To me, silk is the very heart of couture, and seamlessly blending its rich heritage with European influences comes naturally. We carefully source our fabrics from trusted, high-quality suppliers, and that marks the beginning of our entire design process.

Sculpted silhouettes are a distinctive feature of your work. What inspires your approach to silhouette design, and how do you believe these forms contribute to the identity of the wearer? Could you share any specific techniques you use in crafting these structures?

We are experimenting with sculpted silhouettes as a new design approach, as we believe they embody royalty and a dignified aesthetic. The body is naturally sculpted, and our designs simply enhance its form. We achieve this through techniques such as fabric manipulation, layering, and the use of unconventional shapes and forms. Ultimately, our goal is for the wearer to feel confident, as these techniques naturally exude confidence.

Intricate detailing seems to be a hallmark of your collection. Can you provide insight into the craftsmanship behind these details? What role do artisans play in bringing your vision to life, and how do you foster these creative partnerships?

Our artisans come from families who have been mastering their craft for generations, carrying forward a rich legacy. As a brand, we not only provide employment opportunities but also work in partnership with them to ensure their well-being. The intricate embroidery and detailing are executed with perfection, and we are committed to supporting these artisans to preserve this tradition—despite the rise of technology and machine work. There is something profoundly meaningful and beautiful about handmade designs, and we deeply appreciate the artistry that goes into each piece.

You highlight the transformative power of light in your collection. How does this theme manifest in the colors, fabrics, and overall design language of the pieces? What emotions or ideas do you hope to evoke in wearers and observers alike?

Designing is more than just creation—it’s a divine collaboration. You put in the effort, but when there is a true spiritual connection with God, the garments take on a life of their own. They radiate light effortlessly, carrying a presence that goes beyond human craftsmanship. That’s when you know it’s not just skill or technique at play, but something far greater that only God can.

With this collection being showcased at notable events like Milan Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week, how do you envision the intersection of high fashion and cultural storytelling being received by both local and international audiences? What impact do you hope to achieve through such platforms?

We are incredibly grateful for the opportunities to showcase our work at Milan Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week. These experiences allow us to continue learning about different cultural perspectives while sharing our own story through design. It’s deeply important to us that our audience feels something when they see our work, and we hope that, in some way, we are achieving that.

Are there particular pieces in the “Lamp on a Stand” collection that hold a personal significance for you, perhaps tied to a specific memory or inspiration? Could you share the making of one such piece and what it represents for you and the brand?

Every piece in our collection holds a special place in our hearts, but there’s one in particular with a story worth sharing. Early in our journey, we discovered a stunning fabric and created a European-inspired design that gained significant popularity. Five years later, we saw the exact same beautiful fabric and style featured on the Bridgerton TV show! It was a surprising moment, but it reaffirmed that we are often ahead of our time—something we’ve come to embrace with a bit of humor!

Apart from that, some of the standout pieces included our lace gown, the forest green overcoat with intricate embroidery, and the burgundy cape. These designs were among the highlights, each carrying its own unique story and craftsmanship.

Follow FIOLETOWY Studio HERE – https://fioletowystudio.com/