Khushi Shah: Weaving Heritage and Modernity into Luxury Fashion
A Journey Through Heritage and Craftsmanship
For Khushi Shah, the creative force behind Shanti, design transcends mere aesthetics; it serves as a vibrant repository of memories, cultural heritage, and the exquisite artistry of Banarasi textiles. Her foray into the realm of handloom began long before she officially took on her current role, rooted in the serene corners of her family's textile shop, the grace of her grandmother's sarees, and the rich legacy that shaped her upbringing.
Legacy and Innovation Combined
Khushi's educational and career journey led her to the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York, where she gained insights from global perspectives and collaborated with prestigious design houses. Despite the allure of high-fashion innovation, she felt a strong connection to her heritage. Upon returning to India, she set out to create a modern luxury brand that respects traditional craftsmanship while appealing to a contemporary global audience. At Shanti, she is dedicated to reviving authentic zari, promoting ethical artisan practices, and celebrating the understated luxury of handcrafted textiles. With a focus on digital engagement and a community that transcends borders, Khushi has established Shanti as a brand synonymous with timelessness and integrity. Now, alongside her brother Amrit, she continues the family legacy, reaffirming the beauty of handloom and sustainable luxury.
Architectural Inspirations in Design
Architecture has significantly influenced Khushi's design ethos. Her creative journey was sparked by the stunning Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, whose intricate façade—featuring jharokhas, lattices, and geometric patterns—served as the inspiration for one of Shanti's standout designs. Translating such architectural intricacies into textile form required innovative thinking. Every detail, from the graceful curves to the elaborate latticework, was meticulously reimagined, challenging Khushi and her team to push the boundaries of the loom while maintaining elegance.
A Successful Design Evolution
The outcome exceeded expectations, with the Hawa Mahal design quickly becoming a bestseller in various colors and styles. Motivated by this success, Khushi delved deeper into architectural heritage, leading to the creation of Shanti's renowned Panorama Collection. This collection features iconic structures like the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, intricately woven into lehengas and sarees, showcasing both subtlety and grandeur.
Where Heritage Meets Contemporary Style
Through her innovative vision, Khushi has positioned Shanti at the crossroads of tradition and modernity—a realm where age-old craftsmanship meets contemporary insights, where architecture transforms into wearable art, and where luxury is defined by authenticity rather than excess. Her work exemplifies the belief that tradition should not be confined to preservation but should be reimagined and carried forward. In every weave, motif, and silhouette, Khushi honors her heritage while paving the way for a future of conscious, handcrafted Indian luxury.