Rajesh Pratap Singh, born in 1969, is a renowned fashion designer from India, based in New Delhi. His minimalist and understated design aesthetics, characterized by meticulous detailing and innovative fabric texturing, have earned him a prominent place in the fashion industry.
Early Life and Education
Originally from Rajasthan, Singh grew up in a family of doctors. His father, a cardiologist, expected him to pursue medicine. However, Singh was drawn to fashion, influenced by a cousin who worked as a costume assistant on a BBC production in India. He graduated from the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Delhi, in 1994, after training for a year with New Delhi-based designer David Abraham. Singh then gained experience working with the Italian menswear label Marzotto for two years before starting his own line of men’s and women’s clothing in 1997.
Design Philosophy
Singh’s work is known for its simplicity, clean cuts, and flawless details. His exploration of fabric textures, particularly his innovative use of pin tucks, has become synonymous with his label. He believes in letting his work speak for itself, often shying away from the media spotlight. His pret line, named RIP (Rest in Peace), reflects his belief in the power of silence.
Career Highlights
Singh’s career took off in 2006 when his spring-summer collection at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (WIFW) was widely appreciated. His collection featured fluorescent limes and yellows combined with rich reds, maintaining his signature style of pin tucks while introducing new elements like yokes, ribs, and sequins.
In 2007, Singh created a range of menswear and womenswear for the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week line, emphasizing his minimal styling. He continued to make waves internationally, showcasing his spring-summer 2009 collection at Paris Fashion Week. This collection focused on the play of fabrics such as cotton and organza, with a bright color palette including fuchsias and corals.
Singh’s 2010 autumn-winter collection, titled “Us and Them,” showcased at WIFW, highlighted the utilitarian significance of fashion. The collection featured reversible garments and the use of unwoven fabrics, with a color palette dominated by black, red, and blue.
In the same year, Singh collaborated with stylist Ambika Pillai to design the uniforms for Indigo Airlines’ cabin crew, incorporating a clean-cut tunic and a hat displaying the airline’s wings.
Innovations and Collaborations
Singh has been involved in various innovative projects, including a 2011 collaboration with TATA Motors to design the interiors of the TATA Manza. His collections have consistently explored new themes and techniques, such as his “Architectural Romance” collection at WIFW in 2011, which featured experimental silhouettes and fine textiles like Aluminium Ikkat.
Philanthropy and Craft Revival
Singh is committed to sustainable fashion and craft revival. In 2009, he showcased an ecologically responsible collection at the “Green Fashion Show” organized by National Geographic Channel. He works closely with cooperatives to improve Khadi and develop India’s finest Cashmere. Singh also promotes Orissa handlooms and textiles, aiming to create a market for these traditional crafts.
Awards and Recognition
Singh has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including:
- Designer of the Year at the GQ Men of the Year awards in 2009
- Designer of the Year by Elle in 2007
- Kingfisher Designer of the Year award in 2001 and 2005
- Best Menswear Designer honor at the Fashion Awards 1996
Personal Life
Singh’s personal interests include rock climbing and biking, which he finds exhilarating and inspiring. He believes that traveling enhances creativity. Singh, often described as a recluse, prefers that people associate with his work rather than his persona. His wife, Payal, works alongside him, contributing to his successful career.
Rajesh Pratap Singh continues to influence the fashion industry with his unique vision and dedication to craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovation.
