DRIPPING IN FINESSE

Meet the new age designer Abhishek Paatni, who is on a mission to present athleisure in the whole new light of luxury and couture.

- SHIVPRIYA BAJPAI

If we have to go by a fashion glossary, the term “streetwear” often refers to casual wear. A major hit amongst the millennials, the rise of the trend is attributed to 90s’ hip hop fashion. With the passage of time, it got infused with varied global influences; from California’s surf skate culture, to punk rock fashion, elements of sportswear, going all the way to Japan’s street fashion, every country has its own version of the trend. It rides high on comfort and utility factors, which often restricts us from thinking of it beyond fast fashion. Now, with luxury brands all over the world reinventing the scope of streetwear, it’s high time we broaden our horizons as well; and designer Abhishek Paatni is helping us to do exactly that. Along with a vision to extend the concept of couture within athleisure, his brand Nought One showcases the perfect blend of utility and luxury. In an exclusive interview, Abhishek talks about his inspiration, ethical fashion, and more. Edited excerpts...

From engineering to fashion, how did you shift gears to design? How has the journey been so far?