India’s Antar-Agni, Bodice win regionals, to now compete at Woolmark global finals

By

Maverick Martins

Published
Jul 25, 2017

The Woolmark Prize International finals will have some Indian representation as designer duos Antar-Agni and Bodice have won the 2017/18 International Woolmark Prize Indian Subcontinent and the Middle East regional final in the menswear and womenswear category, respectively.
 

The winners gain a financial contribution of AU$70,000, plus the opportunity to compete in the prestigious international final. Antar-Agni & Bodice will have to develop a capsule collection in Merino wool, to be showcased at the finals that will highlight the six menswear finalists and six womenswear finalists selected from across the globe.
 
"We wanted to play with the idea of creating comfort clothing for the new-age man who juggles several roles. Think banker-by-day, traveller-by-the-weekend,” explained Uijawal Dubey of Antar-Agni of his collection.

 “I am truly honored to win this award because it gives Bodice the opportunity for real global expansion and provides the funding to allow me to create an incredible collection,” explained Bodice’s Ruchika Sachdeva.
 
Antar-Agni took inspiration from nomadic tribesmen from across India to create their winning look using multiple layers of woven twill, selected for its superior drape and comfort while Bodice’s winning look took inspiration from the 18th Century costumes of Indian Nautch girls, contrasted by modern menswear tailoring.
 
 “Young designers are now expressing themselves through their work. While womenswear winner Bodice scored high on adaptability, commercial viability and creativity of the look, menswear winner Antar-Agni created something true to his belief. We are keen to see how these designs will be received in the global market,” International Woolmark Prize judge Manish Malhotra said in a statement.
 
The winners of the menswear and womenswear global finals will receive a further AU$200,000 to assist with fabric sourcing and marketing of their collection. A third winner will also be selected at the global final as part of the newly introduced Innovation Award.
 
Bodice brand was founded by Ruchika Sachdeva in 2011 and has a flagship store in Delhi. The brand is also available in more than 20 stores across India.
 
Antar Agni label was founded by Kolkata born designer Ujjawal Dubey who launched it at the 2014 edition of the Lakme Fashion Week. The label is available in all leading fashion outlets in India.