RETURN TO ROOTS

In an ode to authenticity and self-love, 10 creatives from the diaspora community share the evolution of their personal style through a special photo series, exclusively for Bazaar.

- Radhika Bhalla

MADAME GANDHI

ARTIST & ACTIVIST, TOPANGA

“I feel like a global child, but my fashion consistently pays homage to my Indian heritage. For instance, wearing a bindi with a simple, cotton outfit from James Perse is a seamless integration for me. I have grown up with organic cotton fabrics, bright colors, and hemp clothing, and I have noticed an increasing interest in Indian fabrics and styles here in Topanga, where I have been living for the past year during the pandemic.

I usually wear small, gold, hoop earrings with my daily wear; they serve as a reminder of my childhood in Mumbai in the late ’90s. I also wear a gold necklace that says “Own Your Voice” that was created for me by Bhindi Jewelers in Artesia, which is essentially the Little India of Los Angeles. And I always accessorize with several gold bands on my fingers, as they keep me connected to my grandparents, who are of Indian origin.

I take after my mother and grandmother in my love for merging the different aspects of my culture. My family has always, actively-encouraged fashion and self-expression, and I consider that truly special.”

ZAIN SHAH MODEL, LONDON

“I have an obsession with traditional jewellery from South Asia. Some of the pieces in my collection have been handed down to me by my family. This particular bronze choker and earring set is from Bangladesh and was gifted to me by a friend. Whether it is a bindi or a traditional garment, I always like to add something to my attire so it feels authentic ‘me’.