Pallavi Jaikishan

Indian fashion designer Pallavi Jaikishan launched her eponymous luxury label in 1972 and since then retails the most intricately handcrafted haute couture, bridal couture, luxury pret and a home line. She is currently working on her autobiography. 

Indian fashion designer Pallavi Jaikishan’s career spans several decades. Few know that she started out in 1972 with two seamstresses after her husband, musician Jaikishan of the Shankar-Jaikishan duo, passed away. Since, she has worked hard to build a formidable fashion empire with her handcrafted couture collections retailed exclusively at her own lifestyle store- Paraphernalia. This, without any formal training in fashion design.

"Mine has been a most wonderful journey and I have enjoyed every moment of it" Pallavi Jaikishan tells The Hindu. "When I opened my store in 1972 there was excitement galore. Back then, there were hardly any boutiques around so it was a completely new experience for people… There have been so many fascinating as well as key moments in my journey that would probably fill an entire book."

Pallavi moved on to export exquisite beaded garments to renowned fashion and lifestyle stores across USA like Saks 5th Avenue, Lord and Taylor and Bergdorf Goodman. Admirably, she is one of the first few designers in India who realised the need for a prêt line in addition to the made-to-order couture line. She has always worked with pure fabrics that breathe and that can be comfortably worn in the Indian climate including pure silks, chiffons, georgettes and khadi.

Her timeless couture collections comprising intricately hand worked, hand crafted sarees, lehengas and opulent kurtas are heirloom masterpieces passed down from one generation to the next. Yet, each piece is contemporary and versatile while retaining its richness of hand embroidery, detailing and texture. Pallavi's work is a testimony of the fact that each garment is designed and handcrafted exclusively by her. Her signature style remains, to date - subtle, elegant and sophisticated.

Recently the couturier diversified into a home line with Pallavi Jaikishan Home Line. Per Elle: 'The designer’s home line has pieces created by her and décor items that are curated from around the globe including antique-y frames and quirky pillows with images of puppies. "It’s always been my cherished dream to present a collection of beautiful things for homes. Being an avid collector of old and antique pieces myself, this new label is purely an extension of my personality. Anything old, antique and beautiful is inspiring to me" says the designer.'

Indian couturier Pallavi Jaikishan's extensive body of work are reflections of her brand mission that each garment will be designed and hand crafted by her. Her signature style remains, to date, subtle, elegant and standout.

Iconic Indian fashion designer Pallavi Jaikishan envisions continuing to merge young modern silhouettes with classic textile crafts, so that more young women can wear her designs. She also hopes to work on her book on fashion.

Indian luxury label Pallavi Jaikishan retails haute couture, bridal couture and ready to wear. In addition to a home collection titled Pallavi Jaikishan Home Line. The home line has pieces created by her in addition to décor items that are curated from around the world, including antique-inspired frames and quirky pillows.