London has long been a hub for creatives, including fashion designers, and Indian designers have been among those drawn to the city’s vibrant fashion scene. We spoke to four successful Indian designers in London about what success means to them and the challenges they’ve faced in the competitive world of fashion.
Namita Khade, a young designer known for her innovative knitwear, highlights the importance of practicality and financial sustainability in the fashion industry. She believes that success is about staying afloat in the industry and adapting to its ever-changing demands.
Dhruv Bandil, a Central Saint Martins graduate from Madhya Pradesh, was the recipient of the 2023 L’Oréal Creative Award. Bandil, whose designs draw inspiration from his Indian heritage, sees success not as a fixed destination but as a continuous journey, with new challenges and opportunities constantly emerging.
Ashish Gupta, a veteran of the London fashion scene, has built a successful eponymous label known for its riotous and subversive designs. Gupta acknowledges the progress made in inclusivity in the fashion industry, particularly on the runway, but recognizes that there’s still room for improvement behind the scenes.
Harri KS, a recent graduate from the Royal College of Art, is known for his surreal and challenging designs. Despite his relative newness to the industry, Harri has gained recognition for his unique vision. For Harri, success lies in the joy of his creative practice, the support of his team, and the longevity and consistency of his work.
These four designers represent a diverse range of perspectives on success in the fashion industry, but they all share a common passion for their craft and a determination to make their mark on the world of fashion.
