You don’t need a runway to spot talent. And fashion weeks aren’t the only way to discover designers. Sometimes, they are right in your backyard, silently but steadily creating products that are both fresh and fun. Prakriti Osti is one
such designer.
Launched in 2021, Osti produces vegan bags and belts punctuated with brass elements. The brand has a wide range of styles- body belts, sling bags, laptop bags, wallets, and more. When it comes to the colour palette, it has plenty to offer: from blacks to tans and multiple shades of brown, maroon and beige.
It is rewarding to find young, driven, local designers who take on the establishment by drawing up unique designs that express the personalities of Millennials and Gen Z. Vegan bags and funky belts. That’s just the beginning.
Her label is the perfect mix of traditional craftsmanship and modern aesthetic, alongside her commitment to sustainability to source materials locally. In a conversation with WOW, Prakriti shares the joy of entrepreneurship, challenges of being a young designer and the new line of accessories she wants to add. Excerpts:
While pursuing fashion designing, what prompted you to set into the accessories business?
I pursued my fashion designing from IEC College. While studying, I used to design belts for myself. These were highly appreciated. That was when I thought of establishing a business.
Also, as I went deeper into this industry, a lot of options started opening up which I was unaware of other than just being a clothing designer. A war within me started as I wanted to do something different that hasn’t been done in the Nepali fashion industry before. This is where my boundaries started blurring out I found my voice, my identity that I wanted to present to the world. Hence, the journey began.
Why vegan leather? And what are the challenges?
It took me ages. I have literally been to material sourcing stores and spent many days there to find what people buy the most. I used to observe people make bulk purchases and I would ask them about their craftsmanship.
The search for a material that replaces leather while mimicking the touch, feel and age of leather without the cruelty, took a lot of time itself. Finally, I got in touch with the suppliers of highest quality of PU leather in Nepal and we got started. We have gone through various rounds of sampling to achieve these products. Infusing brass elements in the accessories was also a game changer.
As a creative person, while designing this line, there is so much we wanted to do but working with sustainable materials comes with its own constraints. Even today, we are in the midst of sampling various other materials and while it’s a tedious and slow process, we wouldn’t do it any other way.
What are the hallmark designs of Osti?
Osti brand has stood for elegance, timeless classics, and sustainability. We have always stood for handcrafted luxury while being mindful of the purpose it serves. While the shapes these bags take are fun, they are also functional, a design approach that extends across all Osti products. Our brand philosophies go into everything from product to packaging and beyond. Women today need to express their authentic selves and carrying a bag that reflects their core philosophies is important.
What makes Osti’s handcrafted bags different?
This reminds me of days when I learned how to make belts and bags through YouTube tutorials. When I started there were no other local brands designing body belts. Above all, my belt designs are customised according to the body type of the individual and are multi-functional. So far, I have sold more than a thousand belts. “Splendid Beauty” and “Simply Gorgeous Babe” are the best sellers.
The minimal, striking and versatile pieces are not only apt for your everyday look but can also be worn for different occasions.
How do you name the different designs you produce?
The design names are actually my first reaction towards the finished product.
What has your entrepreneurial journey been like?
Being a young entrepreneur is challenging. I wish I had interned in brands producing luxury bags. However, I learned my way through mistakes and failures. I still have the first bag I designed – “Ravishing Beauty”. Though it is flawed in many ways, it gave me the most happiness. Today when I look at it, my entire journey flashes through my mind and reminds me of the evolution that has happened with sheer dedication and passion.
What’s next?
It will be shoes which I am planning to launch next year.
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