Spotlight on the Genesis of “Soumeiran” and their latest jewelry collection “Shaarada”

"Soumeiran", the UK based jewelry brand, harmoniously blends that which is old and new. Taking traditions and heritage of ineffable India and translating that into the style needs of the woman of today is an effortless undertaking for the lady behind the brand, Suchitra Hattangudi Gulvady. Professionally trained in Applied Arts from Mumbai, Suchitra has the combined expertise of being a graphic designer with various e-learning companies and that of being an illustrator with apparel companies. Suchitra is a one woman team when it comes to Soumeiran. She handles all tasks associated with conceptualizing to sourcing, designing to making, photographing to editing, and  advertising and logistics!  

Her jewelry creations for Soumeiran are heavily influenced by her Indian ethnicity. Her deeply ingrained and insatiable love for India’s indigenous arts, crafts and textiles has just grown stronger having lived away from India for so long. Quoting Suchitra, “The renaissance and revival that these industries are going through, along with people becoming more aware and appreciative and endorsing these industries’ works, paired with the brilliance of everything accessible on the internet, makes me think it’s one of the best of times ever to belong here and work with.” Although India is her main pool for inspiration, her designs also exhibit a streak of her experiences living overseas and the exposure to global art, culture and history. 

TECD : Welcome to TECD Suchitra! Let’s start by asking you what does Soumeiran mean?

Suchitra: I would like to start with a warm and heartfelt thank you to Sruthi and TECD for sharing this amazing platform to showcase Soumeiran to its wonderful audience. It is a delight and an honor, to say the least. 

The name Soumeiran (soo – mee – run) is an excerpt from Sanskrit translating to mean prayer beads strung together. 

TECD: Tell us more about your creative journey into the field of jewelry designing?

Suchitra : Soumeiran, if I may say so, is serendipity personified. Having lived away from home for about eleven years now, brought with it starting life from scratch, finding my own feet in a foreign land, a great deal of independence but also responsibility, the biggest of all was of having my own family. As much as it is exhilarating and amazing to have all that, it was at times quite daunting! Being from a creative background I reached a point when I just HAD TO get back in touch with my creative side as routine was getting frustrating and I needed a getaway. Some kind of liberation. Something that I could call and tend to as only my own! I have always wanted to paint but having two very young children meant having very little time left for myself to pursue it. One day I breezed through Google looking for silver jewelry for myself. I have always loved silver jewelry and chanced upon some online stores based in the Far East. I happened to buy some for myself and was amazed at its quality and craftsmanship. I started researching more about various styles of jewelry and the process that went into making them. Obviously the first stop was of Indian genre. I then embarked on this search for material, and I got drawn into it quite quickly. So much so that I got hooked. Before I knew it, I had ordered my first small lot of silver, followed soon by gemstones. I taught myself how to make the pieces and I thoroughly enjoyed making them. It was meditative, to say the least. I have never looked back since. 

TECD: What would you say is the USP of Soumeiran? 

Suchitra: The ethos of Soumeiran is to represent exquisite, original and creative work through quality craftsmanship. We extensively work with silver and gemstones combined into one of a kind jewelry/wearable art. We primarily source on the lines of the temple jewelry genre, bringing forth highly exquisite craftsmanship and stunning design motifs that date way back into time, only to be rediscovered and given a contemporary twist. Right from the conception of Soumeiran, we have emphasized on amalgamating colors in the form of genuine gemstones with our silver. As much as silver is the heart and soul of Soumeiran, the use of genuine, quality gemstones from highly trusted sources is what brings in a totality. We can’t stress enough on the use of honest components, however little or big they are. Thus each piece is made to last a lifetime because of the same. 

TECD: Flamboyant statement pieces that lend an air of bold yet feminine flair to any outfit. Who according to you is the ideal Soumeiran woman?

Suchitra: The ideal Soumeiran woman is one who has a very keen eye for design and color; one who is a seeker for something new, unusual and different; one who has a deep connection with her roots and yet enjoys all that is modern and finally, the most important, being someone who wears her jewelry with pride.

TECD: What would you say has been your most memorable experience w.r.t. Soumeiran?

Suchitra: To be honest, it can’t be put down to one but many memorable experiences since Soumeiran came into existence. Without sounding patronizing, it would have to be every single person I have bonded with through Soumeiran. There are some amazing women here in the UK and across the globe, who I otherwise wouldn’t have had the pleasure of even knowing! As if we all are bound by the same invisible thread, we connect through our common love for design, arts and crafts. I will utterly cherish this all my life, and I am sure I have made these connections for ever. 

TECD: Suchitra, your latest collection Shaarada, is truly one of a kind! We’d like to know more about the Bor Maal’ beads that are extensively used in this collection? 

Suchitra: The collection – Soumeiran Shaarada, that I am so thrilled to be showcased on TECD revolves around this century old (so I have been told) technique of making silver bi-cone shaped beads that were used to make a traditional style of necklace in the Western parts of India, called the ‘Bor Maal’ (string of berries / berry shaped beads). This labor intensive technique has been painstakingly yet successfully carried out by skilled craftsmen to make these beads, which we were fortunate enough to source, after seeking them for a long time and almost giving up hope on them ever to be made, because of it being so laborious and almost unattainable. We have used some really select gemstones – Golden Obsidian, Larvikite, Chrome Diopside, Turquoise (not Howlite!) and Lapis Lazuli along with temple motif silver amulets and pendants to make one of a kind neck wear pieces. 

TECD: The cult following that you have in such a short period of time is admirable to say the least. What has been your success mantra as a small business owner? 

Suchitra : I suppose, fulfillment thereby success lies in being true to yourself and your work, what you showcase. There’s a big audience out there who highly appreciates and really values genuine, honest work and one must always strive to work towards that, and only that will make you stand out, get noticed. It is also a much happier place to be in where a healthy, positive atmosphere is maintained between fellow artists and makers, and honest, good work is always mutually encouraged and appreciated. Lastly, success and humility have to go hand in hand! 

TECD: On a concluding note, tell us what’s next on the charts for Soumeiran? 

Suchitra: I hope the future holds great promise for Soumeiran – we will continue to showcase like we always have, some completely new designs straight from the source – be it ear wear, neck-piece range or maybe something else that has always been highly received by the audience. We hope to build some amazing connections with more connoisseurs of handmade jewelry and crafts, and that Soumeiran stays on a joyous ride like always!

A stunning collection won't you agree? Personally what I love about Soumeiran is that each piece is truly one-of-a-kind -individually crafted to mirror the personality of its wearer. Soumeiran ships worldwide. To get your piece of Soumeiran, please email Suchitra at soumeiran@gmail.com for your copy of the catalog/lookbook or connect with her via Soumeiran's Facebook page. 

Thank you Suchitra, it was a pleasure connecting with you! My TECD readers and I, wish you all the very best in your creative endeavor.....

(Image Credit/Courtesy: Soumeiran) 

Lai's Nilaj(a) collection is here!

I have featured LAI before and it’s a no brainer why time and again, creations from Lai get featured on TECD. Puja Bhargava Kamath (the lady behind the brand Lai) builds collections drawn from diverse cultures that are fresh yet timeless in appeal……chic yet talk to bohemian soul of the modern day woman. Lai’s newest collection, “Nilaj(a)“ (meaning 'produced in the blue mountains' in Sanskrit and 'one who comes with joy' in Yoruba) has a contemporary nomadic flair to it. Having drawn inspiration from the exotic land of Afghanistan, the ultramarine hue of the Lapis Lazuli used in the collection is the perfect contrast to the greyish tone of the silver taking any summer outfit to the next level. 

Sharing her thoughts on the Nilaj(a) collection she says, “Taking inspiration from various layers of Afghani aesthetics - from their Bactrian roots to the nomadic tribes - the designs in this collection are a contemporary rendition of an amalgamation of these multiple aesthetics. Pieces that are both visually intriguing and wonderfully crafted- jewelry that is as likely to be found in the trunks of an antique dealer in a bazaar in Afghanistan as they are in a chic Parisian boutique.”

Tempted to get more than one? I say give into the temptation. To see the entire lookbook click here and to order, mail Puja at shop@lai-designs.com.

Image credit/courtesy : LAI

Spotlight on Lai's latest collection - "Kinner Kailash"

Lai’s latest collection “ Kinner Kailash” draws inspiration from the the land of natural abundance “Himachal Pradesh”. Diving deep into this fascinating northern state in India, Puja Bhargava (owner/creative head - Lai) takes her cues from the unique arts, crafts and culture that are an intrinsic part of the Himachali life! References to exquisite artistry of the Chamba rumal embroidery, distinctive geometric patterned 'Kinnauri and Spiti shawls” and the Kangra Painting depicting poetic sentiments, are beautifully woven into the anatomy of every piece in this limited edition collection. This intricately crafted silver line, has a contemporary flair mixed in with the right amount of boho charm to appeal to the wild side of every sophisticated urban woman.

Puja’s association with Himachal Pradesh dates back to her student years at the prestigious NIFT institute. Revisiting the memorable time that she spent in Himachal Pradesh she shares,"Himachal is one of my most favorite states in India and I've not only visited it as tourist but I also spent a month there as a NIFT student for my Craft Documentation project. Years later I did a Kinnauri shawl revival project for the Textiles Ministry during which I made multiple trips to Kinnaur.....I'd like to think Himachal likes me keeps calling me back!" 

Puja's attention to detail and her ability to interpret cultural inspiration for the modern day woman is exemplary. Talking indepth about her inspiration for this collection she says,"This collection our rendition of tribal Himachali designs (with a bit of Multani influence thrown in- an indicative of their ancient Silk Route connect). It is intended to resemble something you might stumble upon in an antique shop in Chamba- just more fun! We've kept the look oxidized & injected eye-catching enamel colors- making these designs both a beautiful accessory and a covetable find.Conveying the topic of travel, urban nomadic lifestyle and one of a kind finds, Kinner Kailash offers a range of necklaces, earrings, rings & bangles. Something to suit every taste, we think!”

The splendor of the tarnished patina of Oxidized Silver is sagaciously balanced with the hand painted vibrant enamel detailing, making the Kinner Kailash collection a temptation to say the least. This is handcrafted in Jaipur by expert artisans using time honored techniques with centuries-old craftsmanship and quality. Indulge the woman in you and make sure you get yours today before this 'made upon order' collection is sold out! Lai ships worldwide from Delhi and California. To browse the entire collection, click here.

Image courtesy: Lai

Studio Silver Paisley and a Giveaway !!!

Introducing "Studio Silver Paisley" (SSP), an exquisite jewelry boutique that is based in New York. The label is the culmination of Seeta Koko’s creative curiosity and her determination to stay in touch with her artistic identity.  Born and raised in India and then shifting base to the US in her late teens, the exposure to global cultural influences and their indelible impact on Seeta's design philosophy can be seen in the stunning creations for SSP.  

Today's feature throws spotlight on SSP’s latest collection, “Narangi”. The pieces from this line, combine silver, iconic patterns from India (like the peacock and lotus to name a few)  and vibrantly hued semi-precious stones to create a limited edition collection that is both captivating and when paired with the simplest of outfits can make a dramatic statement. Narangi targets the urban sophisticate who not only enjoys a bit of glimmer but is also ready to soak up different cultures! To get to know more about the lovely lady and her brand, we decided to sit down with her and have a heart-to-heart conversation.

TECD : Welcome to TECD ! How and when did you conceive the idea of “Studio Silver Paisley” ?

Seeta: “Thank you Sruthi, I'm delighted to be featured here at TECD. Well, the story goes something like this….. About 5 years ago when life threw a major challenge at me, I took off from work, packed my bags and went to India on a whim. I needed a change of pace and place to get my life together, clear my head and have a perspective of what I wanted from life. On the very same trip, one of those aha moments in a quaint shop in Chennai, I saw a silver paisley necklace and decided instantly to make it a part of my collection. Little did I know back then that this moment would ignite the silver artist in me. Studio Silver Paisley was an unplanned adventure, an adventure which brought back happiness to my life and I wanted to celebrate that by naming it after the neck-piece that started it all.”

TECD: Tell us about the inspiration and the design process that goes into making each collections.

Seeta: “My roots being Indian, I tend to lean towards that side of my upbringing for a large part of my inspiration. I am still surrounded by those colors and scents. But having lived in the US for so long there is definitely a western influence as can be seen in my collection "Narangi". Each piece is an elegant harmony of the modern quotient with traditional style. 

I also draw inspiration from the simple pleasure that life has to offer like the paintings that my daughter draws, the food that I eat, the music that I enjoy or the sunset that I see. I think Rumi sums it up beautifully, “In your light I learn how to love. In your beauty, how to make poems. You dance inside my chest where no-one sees you, but sometimes I do, and that sight becomes this art.”

As for the design process – no pre-determined design plans for me. SSP being a solo endeavor with me in the creative lead, the design process is much like a wild horse. I let it take its course…. However, I source my silver primarily from India and some of it is from Mexico. My design inputs are communicated to the artisans and the process may be very tedious but the end result is so worth it. Like in the Narangi collection, the stones were handpicked, cut and treated in Mexico to my design aesthetic (size, shape etc.). All the creations at SSP are one-of-a-kind, limited edition pieces and that I think is the USP of this brand."

TECD: How would you describe the modern day ideal woman whom you design for?

Seeta: “The modern day ideal women that I envision wearing my designs is a one who has a pixie cut but can rock a traditional attire. A woman who laughs her heart out, who is comfortable in her own skin and is a free spirit.”

TECD : We love the colors and the mix of influences as seen in the Narangi collection.You have successfully introduced two collections in a span of two months. Are you currently working on a third collection ?

Seeta : “I’m always in the process of experimenting and creating, so it’s not a surprise that I have my third collection in the making…..here is a sneak peek for the TECD readers only ! “ 

TECD : What  has been the biggest challenge as a small business owner and what advice would you give to the folks out there who aspire to be small business owners ?

Seeta: “The biggest challenge is capital and I think it is true for every small business. Being a single mother of a 10 year old taught me that life is all about taking risks and enjoying that moment. No matter what the odds, if you follow your heart, you can’t go wrong.”

And now for the generous giveaway in collaboration with Studio Silver Paisley. One lucky TECD reader takes away this gorgeous pair of  handcrafted Silver, Blue Chalcedony earrings !!!

All you got to do is follow these simple steps to enter the GIVEAWAY : 

1.Browse the Album "Narangi" collection on Studio Silver Paisley Facebook page and tell us right here on The East Coast Desi's Facebook page about the products from their Narangi collections that tug on your heart strings. (Please make sure you are logged into facebook to do so.) AND

2.Like Studio Silver Paisley page on Facebook. AND

3.Like The East Coast Desi page on Facebook if you haven't done so already.

4. It's as simple as that :) The winner will be announced on February 15th 2015 (Saturday).

Thank you Studio Silver Paisley for the wonderful GIVEAWAY and good luck to my readers (P.S.Giveaway is open to ALL my readers worldwide) !!!

Images Credit/Copyright: Studio Silver Paisley. Product Styling and Photography : Sruthi Singh