Manhattan's darling fashion designer Seema Anand

I incidentally met with Seema Anand, who is known in Manhattan, Newyork for her  fashion level Blue Plate. Seema is involved with so many faishon shows in NY as well as other fashion capitals.

A family- run business, Blue Plate stems from its 26- year old parent company, Simonia Fashions Inc. Launched in 1981, the wholesale clothing import business carrying “Missy fashions was singlehandedly founded by young entrepreneur Shashi Anand. Born and raised in Delhi, India, Shashi moved to the U.S in 1975 in search of opportunity and a better life. After landing a job making $75 a week an Indian-owned wholesale company, Shashi learned the garment business inside and out, enabling her to found Simonia Fashions Inc. six years later.

Following in the footsteps of her mother, Seema Anand was inspired to carry on her family’s name in fashion in both the business and creative sides. While studying marketing at Baruch, Seema worked hand in hand with the staff at Simonia Fashions, learning both the production and design ends of the business. Realizing she had a greater passion for design, Seema enrolled in Parson’s School of Design to receive further training.

In 1994, Seema officially joined Simonia Fashions as Vice President and Chief Designer. Realizing the market was changing and seeing a demand for teen and young women’s clothing; Seema launched Blue Plate, a contemporary sportswear label for young women looking for fashionable, affordable clothing. (The name Blue Plate stems from the budget-savvy phrase “Blue Plate Special”). Inaugurating 2011, Shveta Kumra, granddaughter of Ms. Shashi Anand, and niece of Seema, has joined. Three generations under one roof.

Enjoying great success over the years with the Blue Plate label and being recognized by top editors, stylists and buyers, Seema felt it was time to expand the brand and recently launched two new labels: her own signature , upmarket line Blue Plate by Seema and Blue Plate Accessories, focusing on jewelry.

As for what the future holds for Blue Plate, Seema has plans to be  apart of fashion scene in  India, as well as open Blue Plate stores.

She  also now decided  to give back by working with the Jaipur Foundation, a charity organization established by family members that provides shelter, general education, medical care and specific job training for homeless children in Jaipur, India. Aiming to give these children a creative outlet, Seema plans to launch a special, Blue Plate by Jaipur Foundation featuring children- designed clothing, jewelry and embroidered bags, of which a percentage of proceeds will be given back to help grow the organization.