Conversations with Rutuja Vakharia

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rutuja Vakharia.

Hi Rutuja, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Growing up in the vibrant city of Mumbai, where traditions and dreams waltz hand in hand, I’m Rutuja, a dreamer with a palette filled with colors and a heart brimming with creativity. From a young age, my eyes sparkled with dreams of living a life filled with colors and creativity, although uncertain about its form. As a youth, I dabbled in multiple fields to discover my true passions, always drawing inspiration from the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture—a kaleidoscope of colors and textures.

My journey commenced with humble stitches and experimenting with fabrics; fueled by relentless passion, I immersed myself in the world of fashion, learning the art of draping and tailoring from local artisans.

However, my dreams knew no boundaries. With a determination as fierce as the monsoons that graced Mumbai, I set my sights on the global stage, pursuing a double master’s in Fashion Design and Luxury Brand Management—a perfect fusion of creativity and business. A decisive turn came when I secured a scholarship for a double Master’s program at the Savannah School of Art and Design in Atlanta, GA, United States.

The prospect of studying amidst diverse communities fueled both my excitement and apprehension. The transition from the chaotic streets of Mumbai to the calming energy of Atlanta was exhilarating and challenging.

The journey was not without its hurdles; adapting to a new creative ecosystem demanded resilience. My school journey at SCAD wasn’t easy, requiring patience at every step. I remained determined every single minute to persevere, regardless of the difficulties. Being far from home is no small feat; the solitude is enjoyed one moment, and the next, you feel so alone. Yet, continuing to fight and reminding myself of the dream and life I envisioned provided me with courage and strength. With every stitch, I wove together my narrative in fabrics and designs, transforming challenges into threads of experience.

Today, standing at the pinnacle of my dreams, I am a testament to my resilience. Fueled by passion, I envisioned garments that tell stories, blending prints with contemporary flair, and completing an MA in Fashion Design. This experience made me have immense appreciation for my parents for believing in me when I couldn’t.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey had its good days and, at times, challenging ones with a mix of triumphs. Adapting to a new creative ecosystem during my studies demanded resilience, being part of a highly competitive school alongside the most extraordinarily talented students.

The academic journey at SCAD wasn’t easy; it required patience at every step. Being far away from home added some complexity. There were moments of solitude balanced by instances of feeling profoundly alone. Yet, through every difficulty, I remained determined to fight, holding onto the dream and life I envisioned for myself.

Cultural adjustments and the distance from family tested my emotional resilience. Navigating moments of loneliness and doubt took courage and strength. However, meeting some amazing friends, who I now consider family, supported me at every step.

In the world of fashion, where innovation and uniqueness thrive, overcoming hurdles is inherent. Adapting to the new environment, tackling academic challenges, and finding my voice in a global industry were all part of the intricate design of my journey. Ultimately, these struggles enriched my story, making the achievement of completing an MA in Fashion Design even more fulfilling and also helped me become stronger as a human.

Life has taught me some lessons the hard way. Everything we go through shapes us into who we are meant to be and is an essential part of our life path. Trusting the process is key.

I’d like to share a quote that encourages me every time I read it:

‘The determination to win is the better part of winning.’ – Daisaku Ikeda

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a fashion design student at SCAD, my work revolves around the fusion of cultural influences, storytelling through garments, and exploring the intersection of tradition and contemporary flair. My specialization is in creating designs that not only showcase aesthetic appeal but also convey narratives and emotions. Specifically, my expertise in printmaking and design printing serves as a tool for narrating stories as a designer, drawing inspiration from conflicting events to bring out the best in my prints and complete my design process.

I’m recognized for seamlessly blending prints with a contemporary edge, crafting unique pieces that resonate with diverse audiences. One of my proudest achievements involves navigating the challenges of studying in a highly competitive environment, securing a lengthy internship at the renowned fashion company DKNY, and making a move to the bustling city of New York last year.

What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to resilience and innovation. Adapting to new ideation, overcoming academic challenges, and maintaining a global perspective have been integral to my journey. I am truly hardworking and always persevere until I achieve my goals. My designs reflect this unique blend of experiences, distinguishing me in the dynamic world of fashion. I take pride in the stories woven into my creations and the diverse influences shaping my unique perspective as a fashion designer.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
As a designer, working collaboratively, learning from others, and growing together holds great importance to me. The acknowledgment of the enduring significance of connections and the positive influence we can have on each other’s lives is at the core of my values. These interactions contribute to lasting legacies and add depth to the human experience, creating a ripple effect of positivity.

My perspective on the pursuit of meaningful connections and the impact on others resonates deeply. The essence of building genuine relationships and making a positive difference in someone’s life aligns with the core values that contribute to a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Moreover, I approach every situation, whether as a professional, student, designer, friend, or daughter, with the commitment to give my 100%. It’s about embracing every opportunity and challenge wholeheartedly, contributing my best to every aspect of life.

I’d like to share a quote –
‘Every hardship will make our personal experience shine that much more brightly. Each challenge will enable us to accumulate more strength. Only by striving our hardest can we grow into true leaders.’ – Daisaku Ikeda

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.behance.net/rutujavakharia
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rutujav_/
• Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/rutuja-vakharia

Image Credits
Photographer – DeAngelo Williams