8 International Designers Who Are Inspired By India

Text by Sadaf Shaikh

They talk about Indian textiles, creative opportunities, and love for this dynamic country

4. MIA ANDERSON
Founder of kidswear label Me in Bangalore

Anderson grew up in Borås which is essentially the textile mecca of Sweden. Her family has been dabbling with textiles for generations. This allowed her to create a kidswear label that is an amalgamation of minimalist design and unique Indian fabrics. Each product is made using organic materials, without the use of harmful chemical processes and dyes.

1. On Indian elements that entice her “The thing with this country is that the longer I stay here, the more it grows on me. I love the vibrant colours, the warm people and the indigenous crafts. I also enjoy the tropical climate, as my hometown in Sweden is dark and cold almost all year around.”

2. On choosing India of all places “It was quite serendipitous since my husband got a job here and I decided to move with him.”

3. On her clientele “I’ve come to find that well-travelled Indian parents truly appreciate my products. I definitely have a wider client base than I’d ever expected – the Japanese, French, Germans and Americans flock to us for organic and non-toxic products.”

4. On challenges “Our think tank sometimes bubbles with more ideas than time allows us, but we aren’t complaining. We are working at marketing ourselves better so that more people have a chance to enjoy our products.”

5. 3 adjectives that describe her brand “Stylish, premium and organic.”

6. On her inspiration “My Swedish roots have contributed largely to the clean finish and functionality of my products. And of course, my daughters’ playfulness is reflected in my designs.”

7. On future plans “We are planning to launch our online store in 2017. My long-term vision is to be an inspirational part of the lives, hopes and joys of today’s parents and kids.”

8. On her favourite moment in India “There’s no way I can pick one since I enjoy my work and social life so much! Each day is an adventure for me and I’m hoping my favourite moment hasn’t passed me by. That way, I’ll always be living each day as it comes.”