Work It, girl

Some of the most iconic brands in fashion have been run by women. In this feature, five women who have each made their business a household-name phenomenon share their entrepreneurial experiences with Ashwini Arun Kumar. Because running a successful fashion business is inspiring but certainly not easy

- Ashwini Arun Kumar

FALGUNI PEACOCK

The creative director and one half of Falguni Shane Peacock is all about always dreaming big, balancing business with creativity, and encouraging women to take risks

"If I had to summarise 20 years into one big takeaway, it would be that - no matter the stage in your life - you have to dream big, set the biggest goal for yourself, and work hard and smart to achieve it. We often feel vulnerable and cannot bring ourselves to make the big, bold moves, but that's when you should put up a strong front and dream of a bigger and better picture for yourself and your brand. We've come so far in our 20-year journey only because of setting goals that, when we look back, seemed crazy and impossible to achieve. But here we are!

"In fashion or life in general, it's all about balance. It has to have elements of commerce and creativity in equal measure. When we started, everything we made showcased our creativity and our love for fashion. But, over the years, we've learnt that balance is the key to ensuring steady growth and success in the long run.

"As women, we often tend to underplay and underestimate ourselves. But that's all in our heads. We can do anything if we believe in our potential and talent. Trust your gut instincts and plunge into whatever you've set your heart and mind on. Take that risk!"

NITYA ARORA

The founder and designer of jewellery label Valliyan tells us about surviving in fashion, learning to balance creativity and commerce, and saying 'no'

"The fashion industry is hard and unforgiving. If you can survive here, you'll survive anywhere. It's gritty, it's competitive, and it keeps you on your toes. But it also makes you feel alive, and you're always surrounded by beauty, so that makes it worth it all.