Women of the 21st Century: Fashion designer Ritu Beri is an encouragement for hundreds of women

‘I’m no longer running on a work treadmill’

NIMISHA TIWARI Times News Network

Ritu Beri, that charming designer, has never restricted herself to just the world of fashion alone. On a restless pace, she has channelised her creativity towards distinguished initiatives worldwide that have brought her laurels. But just a few months ago, this striking beauty decided to take it easy and slow down. “Motherhood has changed the way I
perceive the world. Working furiously towards creating eclectic designs and making it to various fashion week deadlines, signing on several new projects and running superfast on the work treadmill no longer interests me. I want to do things which matter to me, which bring deep satisfaction and peace within,” declares Ritu emphatically.
    But 15 days after the birth of daughter Gia, Ritu’s attempt to rest and take it easy went for a toss. “I was involved in so many assignments that I couldn’t keep myself away from them.” Up and about, Gia now moves along with Ritu. She admits with a laugh, “Gia is a travel-savvy baby. But she keeps me grounded. In fact, even this picture (inset) has been shot in her nursery. So, we work closely, you know.”
    Hands-on at creating the fabric designs for an art installation by young American artists in Los Angeles which will be unveiled soon, Ritu is indefatigable. And often people she works with compliment her glowing and exuberant skin. The secret of that, Ritu admits, is Olay Total Effects Challenge which helps in fighting the seven signs of ageing.
“This seems to be a multi-benefit product and an easy way to take care of my skin,” says the designer. Interestingly, Olay has just thrown open the Olay TE challenge where consumers can come and exchange their existing creams with Olay for free in selects malls. Hundreds of women have already done so, Ritu being one of them.
    Ritu has grave issues to address as well. “We need to do our bit to reduce the effects of global warming. And if we don’t start now, all that we do for our skin to keep it beautiful woudn’t really help,” she says. “I am planning a big move to create awareness on this front soon.”
    nimisha.tiwari @timesgroup .com