Fashion Graphics at Shalini James Mantra
October 5, 2021 - December 31, 2022• Designed and developed the AW22/23 “Finding Walden” collection, alongside the SS23 “Mission Malabar” Kerala Handloom collection and the contemporary “Coromandel” Kalamkari collection.
• “Finding Walden” collection was featured in the April 2023 edition of Indulge magazine by The New Indian Express.
• Conducted extensive research on Indian textiles, crafts, and surface techniques including Ajrakh, Kalamkari, Bandhani, Jamdani, Dabu, Bhujodi, Sanganeri, Bagh, Mangalagiri, Kerala Handloom, and South Cotton.
• Explored seasonal trend forecasts, consumer insights, market research, and colour directions to develop trend-led collections aligned with brand aesthetics and market relevance.
• Developed textile concepts, print stories, colour palettes, fabric explorations, and collection moodboards based on design briefs.
• Collaborated closely with artisans, weavers, block printers, clusters, and manufacturers to develop contemporary interpretations of traditional crafts while supporting craft revival initiatives.
• Curated colour swatches through sample dyeing, fabric development, and surface experimentation for collection execution.
• Prepared CADs, technical specification sheets, production order sheets, and design presentations for internal teams and production partners.
• Coordinated with clusters, vendors, and dealers for sampling, production follow-ups, and order execution.
• Managed textile sampling, quality checks, and pre-production approvals to ensure design and material consistency.
• Designed trims, branded accessories, labels, and supporting visual elements for collections.
• Contributed to visual merchandising, campaign coordination, collection shoots, website graphics, social media creatives, and the Mantra rebranding initiative.