'Government must use designers to create cultural identity'

New Delhi -  The Indian fashion design fraternity needs "complete support" from the government so that they can help in creating more employment opportunities as well as in building a cultural identity for the nation, says capital-based designer Anupama Dayal.

“It's not been easy to get the complete support from government or from the Ministry (of Textiles),” Dayal told IANS on the sidelines of the opening of her first store here.

“I just want to request government that use us (designers)! We are the perfect bridge to move lot of idle labour in agriculture. We can also ensure not just improving economy and livelihood, but also a cultural identity, which we will even help in maintaining,” she added.

This year, the designer is celebrating a successful stay of eight years in the fashion industry. Her first store at Khan Market encapsulates her love for Indian textiles and craft.

The store, 100 sq. ft in area, displays a collection dominated by Boho designs. From dresses and gowns to skirts, there is everything for everyone in bright multicolours.

But what took her so long to open her first store?

“I don't know why I took so long. Maybe because we have been supplying throughout the world on a wholesale basis, and we thought opening a store could be bothersome. But now I think the experience (of having a store) is absolutely different. It's fun to get into store business and I am planning to open many more now,” she said.

The collection displayed at the store is priced between Rs.2,500 and Rs.12,000.