August 2008
Having spent a lot of time out in India, I became increasingly inspired by the fabrics, particularly bandhani which has now formed the base to Sundar's range – it is an old hand knotting technique using a tie and dye method originating from Rajasthan and Gujurat. Designing and producing special feminine pieces, with a fusion twist that you could dress up or down is what I set my mind on doing, pieces that would be made from high quality silks in small quanitities. I knew it was going to be a challenge, quality control is a big problem in India and producing large quantities in terms of manufacturing is generally the name of the game and that was not what I was interested in!  I took some time out in southern India, a peaceful place I love, it was here after a lot of hard work and many crazy stories, that the stitching and sequin work began and Sundar was started. Fair Trade is practiced throughout our manufacturing processes, I work closely with everyone involved, good relationships and good working conditions are key, its a major issue for Sundar and personally for me.
To add to the Sundar collection of clothes, I started making accessories - pretty silk shawls and hand made jewellery made from semi-precious stones. I work with only the best quality hand cut stones and design the bracelets, earrings and necklaces in the north of India. The Sundar jewellery collection has become very popular with my customers and is something I really love to do. 
After a very difficult year personally, I closed my Portobello shop in the June 2008 returning to India to work on a new collection to be launched in 2009. The range will be sold online for the first time, additionally I will be offering an "appointment only" service from my studio in West London. Sundar will also be available from the beautiful 'Baby Ceylon" shop in Crouch End. Their Portobello shop will also carry the Sundar collection, but in a more limited range. In honour of my beautiful Mummy's memory, who sadly died in May after a long battle with Pancreatic cancer, I hope that 2009 will be a new and positive chapter for Sundar. My Mum was my biggest support and fan, without her pushing me- Sundar would never have been launched. She is with me in everything I do and right now, she is telling me to get on with the job at hand - which is designing and creating beautiful pieces that women feel special in and love to wear! 
Thank youto all of my very lovely customers for all your continued support, which has really helped me continue,I hope 2009 will be a new and positive start for Sundar!
Big love
Jules - x Please Email me at any time - I will add you to my news letter list and keep you up to date on the New Sundar Collections |
