SHIFTING PARADIGMS

Nikita Mhaisalkar has uplifted the fashion quotient in the Indian market. With her bohemian non-conformist creations and signature prints, she feels her designs celebrate the power of a woman in all her glory.

- CHITMAN KANWAR AHUJA

Hailing from Ahmedabad, it was Nikita’s dream to bring the rich heritage of fabric and traditional Indian attire, to the city of Nagpur. Without any formal training in design, and with a degree in entrepreneurship management, Nikita always knew she was born to play with creativity. Fortunately, through her hard work and perseverance, her eponymous label today has a strong commercial perspective and presence. Edited excerpts.

Creating Luxe Prêt pieces that remain an owner’s pride forever—is the definition of your brand. What would you say is your forte?

The Nikita Mhaisalkar label has three divisions: an Indian line, an occasion wear section, and a luxury prêt segment. Our strengths are tailoring and surface texturing, as our embroideries are high-impact but light in weight.

Your free spirit is reflected in your work too, and your label gives an edgy international feel to the designs without missing the Indian spirit. What are your goals for your brand? How do you see yourself progressing?

The aesthetic is modern, with a focus on practicality and movement, even for our most elaborate outfits.

Your creations are synonymous with the bohemian touch in fashion designing. Take us through the inspiration board that helps you create such regal finesse.

Handmade at every stage, with each garment standing out uniquely, owing to the fact that the kaarigars handcraft each piece.

Where in your life journey did you pick up this bohemian, easy-breezy aspect to your personality, and your designs?