TheCconnects: Aarti, it’s a pleasure to sit down with you today. Your journey as the founder and creative force behind Aarti’s Design Studio is truly inspiring. Could you share a bit about how you went from a passionate college designer to owning a thriving boutique in the heart of Powai?
Aarti Arya: Thank you for having me! My journey feels like a dream I’m still living. I’ve always been drawn to design, ever since my college days when I’d sketch outfits during lectures instead of taking notes! After completing my diploma in fashion design, I took a bold step and held an exhibition showcasing 100 unique pieces I designed from scratch. To my surprise, 99 of them sold! That moment was a turning point, it gave me the confidence to believe in my craft and pursue it relentlessly.
I started small, working from home, freelancing, and organizing exhibitions. It wasn’t always easy balancing family life, my kids were young, and managing a household while chasing my passion was a juggle. But my family, especially my father, played a huge role in pushing me forward. He believed I could handle it all, and his encouragement gave me the courage to open Aarti’s Design Studio six years ago at Lake Primrose Mall in Powai. Opening during the uncertainty of early 2020 was tough, but we powered through, and here we are, stronger than ever.
TheCconnects: That’s incredible! It sounds like your family has been your rock. Who would you say has influenced you the most in your life, both personally and professionally?
Aarti Arya: Without a doubt, my father. He’s been my biggest cheerleader and a constant source of wisdom. Growing up, he taught me the value of hard work and resilience. He’d always say, “If you love what you do, it’s not work, it’s a gift.” That stuck with me. Professionally, I’ve also been inspired by designers like Sabyasachi Mukherjee, whose ability to blend tradition with modernity is pure magic. His work ethic and dedication to Indian craftsmanship have always motivated me to push the boundaries of my own designs.
TheCconnects: Speaking of pushing boundaries, every entrepreneur faces challenges along the way. What have been some of the biggest hurdles you’ve encountered, and how did you overcome them?
Aarti Arya: Oh, where do I start? The biggest challenge was launching the studio right before the pandemic hit in 2020. We’d just opened our doors in December 2019, and by February, the world turned upside down. We had to shut down for 20 days, but the rent, salaries, and other expenses didn’t stop. It was a nerve-wracking time, especially since we were a new business. But I decided to focus on what I could control. We used that time to connect with clients virtually, showcasing designs through social media and video calls. It wasn’t ideal, but it kept us afloat.
Another challenge was self-doubt in the early days. As a woman managing a family and a business, there were moments when I wondered if I could do it all. But I leaned on my support system, my husband and kids were my biggest cheerleaders, and reminded myself why I started. Passion and persistence got me through those tough times.
TheCconnects: That resilience is truly admirable. What key lessons have you learned from your career that you’d like to share with our readers?
Aarti Arya: One of the biggest lessons is to trust your vision. There will always be naysayers or moments of uncertainty, but if you believe in your craft, stay true to it. Another lesson is the importance of adaptability. The fashion industry moves fast, and trends change overnight. Being open to learning and evolving, whether it’s embracing sustainable fabrics or leveraging digital platforms, has been crucial. Finally, I’ve learned that relationships matter. Building trust with clients, vendors, and your team creates a foundation for long-term success.
TheCconnects: Let’s talk about the digital space. It’s transformed how businesses, especially in fashion, connect with customers. What do you see as the biggest challenge for brands in this space today?
Aarti Arya: The digital space is both a blessing and a challenge. The biggest hurdle for brands is standing out in a crowded market. With social media, everyone has a platform, which is great, but it also means you’re competing with thousands of voices. Customers are bombarded with options, so creating a distinct brand identity and building trust is critical. Another challenge is balancing authenticity with trends. It’s tempting to chase viral aesthetics, but I believe customers value originality and quality over fleeting fads. At Aarti’s Design Studio, we focus on telling our story, rooted in craftsmanship and personalization, to connect with clients on a deeper level.
TheCconnects: That’s a great point about authenticity. How does Aarti’s Design Studio address the pain points of your customers, especially when it comes to personalized fashion?
Aarti Arya: Our customers often come to us feeling overwhelmed by mass-produced clothing that doesn’t reflect their individuality. Whether it’s for a wedding, a festive occasion, or everyday wear, they want something unique that fits their personality and body perfectly. We address this by offering fully customized designs. From the initial consultation to the final fitting, we work closely with clients to understand their vision, preferences, and even their cultural roots. We also prioritize quality, using premium fabrics and intricate handwork, so they feel confident and special in our creations. Our bridal wear, for instance, is designed to make every bride feel like she’s stepping into her dream moment.
TheCconnects: That personal touch really sets you apart. Let’s shift gears a bit, what do you do to unwind or spend your free time when you’re not designing?
Aarti Arya: Honestly, designing is my happy place, so it’s hard to switch off! But when I do, I love spending time with my kids and husband, we’re big on movie nights and board games. I also enjoy walking , exercising, staying fit; there’s something calming about nurturing plants and watching them bloom. And, of course, I’m always sketching or browsing design inspirations, so my passion often sneaks into my downtime too!
TheCconnects: It sounds like creativity is woven into every part of your life. As someone who’s built a successful business from the ground up, what advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs in the fashion industry?
Aarti Arya: First, follow your passion, but back it with a plan. The fashion industry is glamorous, but it’s also demanding. Research your market, understand your audience, and be prepared for hard work. Second, don’t be afraid to start small. My first exhibition was in a tiny community hall, but it led to bigger opportunities. Third, invest in relationships, whether it’s with clients, artisans, or mentors. Finally, stay authentic. Your unique voice is what will make you stand out in a sea of sameness.
TheCconnects: That’s fantastic advice. Looking ahead, where do you see Aarti’s Design Studio in the next five years?
Aarti Arya: My vision is to take Aarti’s Design Studio to new heights. I dream of opening branches across India and even internationally, with a focus on exclusive bridal wear and high-end occasion wear. I also want to explore sustainable fashion more deeply, using eco-friendly materials and supporting local artisans. My goal is to create a brand that’s synonymous with craftsmanship, elegance, and individuality.
TheCconnects: That’s an exciting vision! One last question: If you could collaborate with any designer, living or historical, who would it be and why?
Aarti Arya: Oh, that’s a tough one! I’d love to collaborate with Coco Chanel. Her ability to redefine elegance with simplicity and boldness is timeless. I’d be fascinated to blend her minimalist approach with the vibrant, intricate elements of Indian design. It would be a fusion of cultures and eras, imagine the possibilities!
TheCconnects: That would be a collection to watch! Aarti, thank you so much for sharing your journey and insights with us. It’s clear that your passion and dedication are the heart of Aarti’s Design Studio. We can’t wait to see where you take it next!
Aarti Arya: Thank you for this opportunity! It’s been a joy to share my story, and I hope it inspires others to chase their dreams with courage and heart.
