Harker sophomore builds clothing designs in free time

Through growing up around family members in the fashion design industry, Rani Sheth (10) quickly found her passion for designing dresses and gowns. Now, she has crafted her unique style, incorporating materials like silk and tulle and following fashion icons such as Oscar de la Renta and Christian Siriano.

Rani looks through a book of designs for inspiration. She is well-known for her unique clothing designs.

Mahika Halepete

Rani looks through a book of designs for inspiration. She is well-known for her unique clothing designs.

by Mahika Halepete, Winged Post Asst. Features Editor

Mahika Halepete
Rani’s sketchbook is filled with her designs. The entire process, from sketching to completion, takes her between five and 15 hours to make each piece.
Mahika Halepete
Rani cites Oscar de la Renta and Christian Siriano as her style inspirations. “They have what I would say is a similar style to what my style is. They’re very classy and unique,” she says.
Mahika Halepete
Rani guides a piece of repurposed fabric through the sewing machine. “Some people, when I tell them I’m into fashion…they don’t get that designing takes a lot of work, a lot of craftsmanship and skill to do,” Rani says.
Mahika Halepete
A dress Rani designed and crafted, made of a embroidered sheer fabric, is hung up on a wall. “I like working with silk, I love tulle. Really whatever material I think suits my piece,” Rani says.
Mahika Halepete
A drawer in Rani’s room contains colorful fabrics. “When I was younger, the only thing I really had to work with was saris which my mom would give me,” Rani says. “A lot of my work is very colorful, and I like really bright colors.”
Mahika Halepete
Another drawer is filled with threads and clothing embellishments. Rani’s work often incorporates beads and embellished belts in addition to the colorful fabrics.
Mahika Halepete
Rani attaches a beaded belt onto one of her pieces. Her work often incorporates beads and embellished belts in addition to the colorful fabrics.
Mahika Halepete
Rani often repurposes materials; this skirt was crafted from pieces of repurposed denim.