The Tamesis
The Sachin & Babi summer collection was a family affair, based on beautiful, painterly poppy prints, and Sachin and Babi Ahluwalia owe part of the credit to their college-age daughter, Beau. “We put her to work and asked her to reinterpret and imagine watercolor flowers,” says Barbee. “We’re very proud of it.” Proudly, it’s evident in feather-light silk turtleneck tops, floor-sweeping skirts, strapless gowns and even the evergreen grosgrain dress silhouette that has long been named after Beau.
There are also “luxe linens” for those shopping for “instant gratification” during the warm weather, and silhouettes that are more playful and airy than the formal styles that spring and fall collections call for. “I love weaving dreams, but you need someone to live in them,” Barbee said. “We want it to be simple. We want it to be there, breathing, dancing, getting dirty. For people to actually enjoy it. It can’t be too precious.”
Meanwhile, the black tie gowns and dresses lining the studio walls act as Babi’s “data cabin” – they allow her to understand her clients’ needs in real time and react accordingly when designing her next collection. Another help is the free alterations and hand-made customization they offer, which adds to the high-quality service the couple prides themselves on. “When you ask the right questions, all the stress goes away,” Barbee points out. “We asked tailors the same questions they used to ask. That’s how fashion has always been—and it’s interesting that it’s back to that.” Especially in an era when trustworthy tailors are in increasing shortage. This turns their studio into a one-stop shop.
While the brand isn’t one to chase trends, they stumbled upon one: a delicate chiffon scarf with beaded trim that has become a popular accessory for its practicality (for those who want to cover their arms or shoulders) and will continue to do so, as elegant draped neck scarves are popular across all ages. “They’re so ‘popular’ now,” Dad laughed. … “But in Indian clothing, we always do.”
