New Delhi, Jan 14 (IANS) After almost two decades in the fashion business, he has earned an impressive clientele - from Hollywood’s Lady Gaga and Paris Hilton to Bollywood’s Bipasha Basu and Akshay Kumar. But guess what designer Rocky S is now excited about? The Indian kidswear market.

“Trends in the Indian market are fast changing and the kids’ apparel market is growing rapidly. One of the important changes is the increasing preference for branded apparel. Kids focus on dressing styles and are aware of what suits them most. Influenced by mass media and peer pressure, today’s kids are more informed and self-conscious,” Rocky told IANS.

He is all set for his debut in the kidswear segment at the forthcoming India Kids Fashion Week starting Jan 17 in Mumbai.

“The boom in this segment has opened a huge opportunity in the retail sector with new stores…the trend is indeed a boon for the growth of the business and economy of India,” he added.

At the fashion week, Indian and international designers will explore the untouched territory of the kids line by displaying apparel, toys, accessories and a lot more.

Some of the big names to participate in the three-day event are Narendra Kumar, Nishka Lulla and Malini Ramani. International brands like Barbie, Kidology, Little Kangaroos, Just for Kids, Mineral and Coochie Coo will also present their collection on the ramp.

Rocky feels the platform will help in exploring more business avenues.

“With the changing trends in fashion and style, why should kids stay aloof? A fashion week solely for them is a great idea to not only create a vast platform for them but also to encourage the market, business and brands for kids’ apparel and accessories,” he said.

The designer, known for his bold and sensuous women’s wear, will showcase classic and vintage kidswear collection in fabrics like silk, velvet and brocade.

“From perfectly tailed Tuxedos, modern fit suits with waistcoats, which are bound to make every little boy look handsome, to tantalising dresses for the girls that will bring out the princess in (them). The collection has it all,” said Rocky.

“The colour palette ranges from greys, ivories to pastels like old rose, pistachio and baby pinks,” the designer added.

He is still keeping himself away from Bollywood movies.

“There is no specific reason for not styling in Bollywood movies. I take the opportunity when it comes my way. And I have been extremely fortunate to work with a few of the best international personalities and, of course, B town beauties.”

Is he impressed with the way Indian fashion industry has grown?

“The Indian fashion industry and the luxury goods industry is booming. International brands coming in, huge demand for designer clothes and enormous investment in retail sections have definitely boosted our fashion industry.

“Fashion weeks have been a great platform for upcoming as well as established designers to showcase their creativity to a wider extent,” he said.

(Nivedita Sharma can be contacted at nivedita.s@ians.in)