“Traceability, cultural identity, spirituality, and sustainability form the essence of my work,” reads a quote from renowned fashion designer Tarun Tahiliani on his website. His inspiration, he told us, comes from “India’s rich culture, with its art, architecture, and textiles.”Despite being an integral part of the Indian fashion industry for over 35 years and becoming the first Indian designer to showcase at Milan Fashion Week in 2003, Tahiliani still feels a “constant drive to innovate and adapt.”Talking about his “ongoing journey,” his design aesthetics, and new projects, the ace designer, in an interview with indianexpress.com, also opened up about how he navigated the ever-evolving world of fashion, which he admits can be challenging for a designer. Read the edited excerpts below:Q. You have been an intrinsic part of the Indian fashion industry for almost four decades. How would you describe your journey?Tarun Tahiliani: My journey has been an exhilarating mix of challenges and triumphs. From establishing India’s first multi-designer boutique to launching OTT Tarun Tahiliani, I’ve witnessed and contributed to the dynamic evolution of Indian fashion. My journey has been about honouring heritage while seamlessly integrating contemporary design elements.Q. When you look back, do you feel content or are you still striving to achieve something?Tarun Tahiliani: While I take pride in the milestones achieved, the world of fashion is ever-evolving. There’s a constant drive to innovate and adapt. The launch of OTT Tarun Tahiliani marks a new chapter, aiming to make luxury prêt accessible to a broader audience. The journey is ongoing, with each day presenting fresh opportunities to redefine style and elegance. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tarun Tahiliani (@taruntahiliani)Q. Through your journey, how much have you evolved–personally and professionally?Tarun Tahiliani: Evolution has defined my journey. It deepened my appreciation for tradition, adaptability, and the artisans who bring our craft to life. The name on the door may be mine but the journey to success belongs to all of us at TT.Q. Tell us about your luxurious leather bag collection on Myntra Luxe.Tarun Tahiliani: Our leather bag collection on Myntra Luxe embodies the brand’s India modern philosophy, blending heritage with contemporary elegance to make luxury an everyday experience. The collection debuts with six versatile styles designed to complement different women and their lifestyles—a playful vanity bag, an all-encompassing tote, a statement trapeze, a chic sling, a functional shoulder bag, and the signature bangle potli. Whether for everyday elegance or a standout occasion, there’s a piece to suit every need and mood. The House will also introduce limited-edition bags that align with its design ethos, bringing a sense of artistry and playfulness to the collection.Q. What wins in the debate between comfort and appearance? How do you translate this into your designs?Tarun Tahiliani: Comfort and appearance are not mutually exclusive—they complement each other. True luxury lies in designs that offer aesthetic appeal without compromising on comfort. We prioritise ergonomic fits and breathable fabrics, ensuring the wearer feels as good as they look. This philosophy is evident in the fluidity and ease of our garments.Story continues below this ad Evolution has defined my journey, says Tarun Tahiliani. (Express archive)Q. Celebrity showstoppers or models—which do you prefer, and why?Tarun Tahiliani: Both bring unique energy to the runway. Celebrities offer a broader reach and connect with diverse audiences, while professional models bring discipline and focus to a presentation. The choice depends on the story we aim to tell with each collection.Q. The world of fashion is ever-evolving. How challenging is it to keep up while maintaining a signature style?Tarun Tahiliani: Balancing innovation with a signature style is a nuanced challenge. Staying attuned to global trends and technological advancements while remaining true to our core identity is key. For us, this means exploring new design horizons without losing sight of the “India Modern” aesthetic that defines our work.Q. Your creations made a mark on OTT platforms. Can digital be called the “new catwalk” for both established and emerging artists?Tarun Tahiliani: Digital platforms have revolutionised fashion, offering designers unprecedented reach. OTT platforms, in particular, have become virtual runways, enabling creative storytelling and reaching a global audience. This shift democratises fashion, providing a stage for both established and emerging designers to present their work beyond traditional confines. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tarun Tahiliani (@taruntahiliani)Q. After so many years in the industry, where do you continue to find inspiration?Tarun Tahiliani: Inspiration is omnipresent. India’s art, architecture, and textiles remain profound sources. The evolving lifestyles and aspirations of modern Indian women inspire me to create designs that resonate with tradition and contemporary sensibilities.Q. Your take on sustainability? How do you embrace it personally and professionally?Tarun Tahiliani: Sustainability is integral to responsible design. Personally, it translates to mindful consumption and valuing quality over quantity. Professionally, we emphasise supporting artisanal crafts, and creating timeless pieces that transcend seasonal trends, encouraging longevity in wardrobes.Story continues below this adQ. What made you foray into bags after so many years?Tarun Tahiliani: The decision to venture into designing bags stemmed from a desire to offer a holistic fashion experience. Accessories, especially bags, are pivotal in completing a look. Recognising a gap in the market for high-quality, aesthetically pleasing bags that align with our brand’s ethos, we introduced our bags.ALSO READ | Ritu Beri on staying relevant: ‘I don’t just follow trends, I create them’Q. What is the inspiration behind launching this line of bags?Tarun Tahiliani: The inspiration behind our bag collection is multifaceted. We drew from India’s rich artisanal heritage, incorporating traditional craftsmanship techniques with contemporary designs. The aim was to create pieces that are not only functional but also narrate a story of cultural fusion, resonating with the modern consumer’s appreciation for heritage and style.