SUMITA

3/27/2017

Hannah Rancourt Photographer - Taya Fagan

How long have you been designing?
I started designing early in my life. I did a degree in Fashion Design in 1994 and worked as a designer until 1997. I stopped designing when I moved to US. I opened my own clothing line KalaXpress in 2014 after doing fashion shows successfully.

What’s a typical day for you?
Checking and planning for the day. Social media updates. Planning for the future events. Follow up with my clients. Meeting with my suppliers and making sure shipments will be on time and with high quality. Working on new samples for the clients and fashion shows. Arranging my studio with new designs on mannequins.

How was home life for you growing up?
I grew up in Delhi/Gurgaon, North India. It is a very different environment from here in terms of schooling, human behavior, culture and society. I am fortunate to have lived in both Eastern and Western world and experience the culture.

Were you always supported in your endeavors?
Yes, always have had the support of my family, friends, models, business relations, that have been key to my success. I believe I am really fortunate on this one.

Model- Ariel Hines with my daughter - Mahima Bhojwani

What has been your favorite experience ?
My recent trip to Bahamas where I showcased my collection on a cruise ship.

What is the biggest challenge you faced in your Fashion career?
It is hard to name just one. I have definitely faced challenges in all stages of the process and am still facing some. To name a few - reliable material sourcing. Each challenge has taught me something new about the fashion industry and I am thankful for all the hardships I have faced. But with all the support from my family and friends, each challenge and hardship gets easier.

Hannah Rancourt

What has been your biggest achievement?
As of now I am happy people really like my designs and always look forward to my new collection.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
In Hollywood/ Bollywood movies as a costume Designer. Designs in Retail Boutiques, and I should be able to style celebrities. One goal/dream I have - is that my designs should reach the Oscars!

Model: Victoria J Yore MUA: Melinda Clark Henry Photographer: Dean Paul Location: Le Meridien Tampa

Do you have any shows or events coming up?
I am planning to attend Trendz Trade show and Barbados fashion week.

Anyone you want to collaborate with in the future?
Future goal is to collaborate with celebrity fashion stylists, Cruise ships, fashion bloggers, stylist to name a few.

What would you tell anyone doubting themselves?
Don’t sit around. Start moving! In the beginning you may not go in the direction you dream, but as long as you’re moving, you’re creating possibilities. I started redesigning after spending more than 10 years in IT. If you are passionate about doing something do it now..do not wait for tomorrow.
I love the quote from Richelle E. Goodrich .. ‘You may be the only person left who believes in you, but that’s enough. It takes the glimmer of just one star to pierce a universe of darkness’. Never give up on yourself. Encourage yourself, believe in yourself, and love yourself today. Never doubt who you are.

Who inspires you?
I am a Mom of three kids. They are my biggest inspiration in everyday life. We travel around the world. People around the world inspire me as well because they are who created the history, society, culture, art and without art, there wouldn’t be any visual representations of the past. I bring out the elements that fascinate me the most while traveling. I recently travelled Greece and I am working on my new collection that is dedicated to Greek culture.

If you could style your favorite celebrity who would it be and what would they wear?
Deepika Padukone - Bollywood / Emma Watson- Hollywood

What's your favorite design of yours?
I love all my designs as I put all my heart and soul in it while designing.

Any other additional hobbies?
Travel, gardening, following Ayurveda and fitness are some of my hobbies.

What's your favorite quote?
One should always dress to express - express yourself, your feelings or your mood for the day. - KalaXpress