Rooted in mythology, sculpture, and the human form, Saim announced its arrival with a striking debut at GenNext, Lakmē Fashion Week 2026. Drawing from early explorations of temple sculptures to the quiet nuances of everyday dressing, the collection unfolded as an intimate study of form, movement, and memory. Sheer fabrics, intricate patchwork, and fluid silhouettes came together in a language that felt contemporary yet deeply anchored in tradition.
More than just a debut, the showcase marked a defining moment for the label, offering a sharper glimpse into the ideas shaping its evolving identity. We caught up with the designer to delve deeper into the inspirations, processes, and perspectives behind the collection.
FL: This collection draws from mythology, temple sculptures, and the human form. How did you translate these references into a contemporary design language?
Saim: India, for me, has always been synonymous with these three elements. As a creative person, I draw inspiration from my surroundings and experiences. Our rich history offers a visual language where we blend imagination and reality. Over the years, these references have evolved into something functional and relevant for today. They become a mood board of sorts, helping me interpret these elements from a contemporary lens.
Image Courtesy: Saim
Image Courtesy: Saim
FL: This collection is rooted deeply in personal childhood memories. How did these early experiences shape your design perspective today?
Saim: As a child, you tend to magnify the visuals around you. One of my earliest memories is of Goddess Durga, whose gaze and form left a deep impression on me. It stayed with me and helped shape my imagination.
I was also observing how people adapted everyday dressing for functionality. Small cues – like adjusting a dupatta or tying a saree differently – fascinated me. That is where my understanding of style began. It wasn’t about the style itself, but how we interpreted it. Through Saim, I’m able to revisit those memories and realise that the new has always existed – we just never stopped to notice it.
Image Courtesy: Saim
Image Courtesy: Lakmē Fashion Week/ Instagram
FL: The idea of shaped patchwork over sheer fabrics feels central. What drew you to this technique as a means of expression?
Saim: This technique reflects both the world we live in and a sense of fiction, where the patchwork highlights and celebrates the fabric, while sheer fabrics like Chanderi retain a sense of softness. It became a way to explore the coexistence of tradition, sensuality, structure, and fluidity. The idea was to show how fashion has always adapted and evolved with function, further shaping how we dress today.
Image Courtesy: Lakmē Fashion Week/ Instagram
Image Courtesy: Lakmē Fashion Week/ Instagram
FL: Looking back at the process, what stayed with you the most while creating this collection?
Saim: Culture stayed with me. The deeper I researched, the more I connected with the aspects of India that are often misunderstood. It made me appreciate the confidence and boldness with which our ancestors embraced their expression and identity. That is what helps me approach fashion today
Image Courtesy: Saim
Image Courtesy: Lakmē Fashion Week/ Instagram
FL: With this collection raising the bar, what’s next for the label?
Saim: The next step is to make the label more accessible across different cities and expand our offline presence so people can truly experience it. At the same time, we’re also looking to grow beyond fashion and delve into art and performance. When you wear our label, we want you to feel something deeper, something beyond just the garments.