Payal Khandwala envisions feminine and fierce women through timeless ensembles
Dressing the modern woman has taken over the collective imagination for many years, and yet sharp and brilliant women have always had to play by the rules, especially in their choices of fashion. Payal Khandwala, on the other hand, celebrates every non-conformist woman who refuses to give up her comfort, envisions her style through her personality without having to give up her femininity, and has a refined sense of luxury. Here, Western shapes embody the elegance of traditional aesthetics, and minimal and modern elements collaborate in a single outfit that allows moving from one occasion to the next, effortlessly.
Payal Khandwala launched her eponymous label in 2012 with a clear vision toward spirited women. They become canvases for Khandwala’s characteristic colors and textures—that when blended with layered separates create drama and are yet elegantly minimal. Having already carved a niche through their signature pleated outfits, that have dressed a spectrum of celebrities, Payal Khandwala’s collections shine through as relaxed and timeless styles. They fall easy on the body and do not limit themselves to a specific occasion. A wide range of tunics, sarees, tops, palazzos, and many more open windows to interpretation and remain elegant and refined ensembles even when paired with varying pieces.
Another defining aspect of Payal Khandwala’s collections is the sound interchange of aesthetics between two disparate cultures–where contemporary textures and designs find their way into traditional wear and a slew of rich brocades can be seen translated onto contemporary jackets and bottomwear. In their prêt line, understated prints and textures take over while the festive collection is all about spotlighting opulent textiles at the heart of Indian heritage–some even take subtle inspirations from menswear shapes. Their signature pleated outfits, such as ponchos, maxis, tops, jackets, and other separates, including sarees, hold a separate pedestal, and a dramatic flair follows. They make ubiquitous ensembles for posh cocktail and dinner parties, or an array of wedding events while also pairing well with everyday staples.
Payal Khandwala’s collections resonate with global tastes but come with an inherently Indian soul. They are fabricated in handwoven silks, linen, khadi, and cotton swaddled in rich colorscapes. In these outfits, women find different kinds of cuts, drapes, and even origami folds enabling democratic and fluid-fitting shapes. Each aspect in a Payal Khandwala ensemble is a gentle nudge to embrace one’s own identity and to dress however women aspire themselves to be.
