Adjust to environment and stay most relevant to customers: Pankaj Rastogi

Chandigarh: Dr. Prabhdip Brar, Chairperson, University Institute of Fashion Technology & Vocational Development (UIFT&VD), Panjab University, Chandigarh, organised a Webinar titled -From Designing for Export, to Designing for Bran, today.

Dr. Brar gave an introductory note, welcoming the speaker, Mr. Pankaj Rastogi, Global Head Creative, Orientique Australia. The speaker started his design journey as a design student in 1996 where he picked up his design sense with an inclination towards western wear. Mr. Rastogi worked for an Export house for more than 19 years. 

The speaker stated that one should know the vision and strength of the company. Also, offering something new by knowing your customers well and adapting to new technology can help export companies to survive. The speaker has been working with Orientique, an Australian apparel brand for more than 6 years. Speaker also stated that COVID has had its impact on the Fashion industry worldwide as Fashion is a commodity that is not essential. The Ripple Effect will continue till the middle of next year that is 2021. Virtual trade shows are not as successful a platform to showcase the designs as the garments can not be touched and there is no human interaction. Also, brands are turning towards natural and organic raw materials than semi-synthetic counterparts with only a 20 percent rise in prices. It is the need of the hour to adjust to the environment and stay most relevant to the customers.

Faculty members, research scholars and students of Fashion and Lifestyle Technology attended the webinar.