JD Institute recently hosted a series of transformative events that set the stage for India’s Largest Student Design Festival, iFestival, scheduled for August 9th and 10th, 2024. Over two days, students engaged with industry leaders, participated in dynamic workshops, and showcased their innovative designs, offering a glimpse into the future of fashion and design. 

Day 1: Industry Insights and Inspirational Talks

The first day of the event was held at the Lokayata Art Gallery on July 15th, where students had the privilege of interacting with some of the most influential figures in the fashion and design world. The event featured notable speakers including Radhika Bhalla, Nitin Kartikeya, Ranjit Mukherjee, Rakhi Sharma, and Nidhi Sahu.

Radhika Bhalla, Content Director of The Word Magazine, inspired students with her insights on the future of fashion branding. She was particularly impressed by the prototypes created by the students, praising their creativity and vision. Her discussion provided valuable perspectives on evolving branding strategies, helping students understand how to navigate and innovate in the competitive fashion industry.

Nitin Kartikeya, Founder Director of Kartikeya India, shared his expertise on the intersection of fashion evolution and social media. His advice encouraged students to look beyond digital platforms and delve deeper into the essence of fashion. Kartikeya’s session was a catalyst for students to push their creative boundaries and explore new avenues in their design careers.

Ranjit Mukherjee, the Leader of The Vrindavan Project, provided insights into blending modern design techniques with traditional elements. His talk on futuristic design speculations and green building innovations left a lasting impression on the students, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices and innovative design solutions.

Ms. Rakhi Sharma and Ms. Nidhi Sahu, representatives from the Indian Federation of Green Energy, offered a crucial perspective on sustainability. Sharma’s discussion on green energy and renewable resources, coupled with Sahu’s insights into government measures for reducing carbon footprints, emphasised the growing importance of environmental considerations in design.

Day 2: Workshops for Creative Exploration

On July 16th, the event continued with two engaging workshops designed for students exploring career options in fashion and interior design. 

PVC Workshop: Participants in this workshop transformed ordinary PVC pipes into extraordinary art pieces, showcasing innovative uses of materials. The workshop emphasised the versatility of PVC as a material, showcasing its potential beyond traditional uses. Students experimented with different forms, structures, and finishes, allowing them to push the boundaries of conventional design. This hands-on experience encouraged students to think creatively and push the boundaries of traditional design techniques. 

Denim Deconstruction Workshop: In this workshop, students explored the art of denim deconstruction, experimenting with new techniques to create personalised and unique denim pieces. The workshop highlighted the importance of individuality and personalization in fashion design. Students were empowered to create unique denim pieces that reflected their personal style and creative vision. They learned how to break down and reconstruct denim garments, incorporating elements like texture, colour, and pattern in innovative ways. This session offered practical skills and creative freedom, allowing students to develop a distinctive approach to denim design. 

The success of these workshops was largely due to the insightful mentorship provided by JD Institute’s faculty. Their hands-on approach and expert guidance helped students gain clarity on their career paths and inspired them to explore new possibilities in fashion and interior design.