Meghana Limbadri - Redefining Indian Couture with a Contemporary Flair: An interview on the future of fashion in India

Meghana Limbadri, a visionary designer and the creative director of Meghana Limbadri label (MLL), is causing a stir in the fashion industry in the bustling city of Hyderabad, India. Renowned for her bold, contemporary interpretations of traditional Indian draping styles, MLL has firmly established itself as one of the most coveted couture houses in the city.

“As an emerging designer in India, do you believe that the country has the potential to one day become a major competitor in the global fashion game ?”

“I think India has always been in the game.The Sari, for instance, is a couture drape, but it isn’t as recognised as other forms of couture. Fashion isbecoming increasingly important in Indian society, with celebrities and influencers exposing the general public to fashion trends. India’s already large market keeps growing, giving it potential to grow into a prestigious fashion hub.”

“Definitely! Specially since the pandemic I have observed that people’s interest in fashion has increased, there has also been a rise in influencer culture, fashion apps and businesses coming up. Do you think the pandemic has influenced your brand?”

“We managed to grab the attention of our consumers when covid hit, we were quick to adapt to digital sales and we kept our target segment engaged, as fashion was their go-to for feeling good. Post lockdown our sales shot up as people increased socialising , travelling , partying and were willing to spend their money on luxury and customised goods . While many brands suffered losses due to having too much stock, some brands got more exposure during lockdown because of E-commerce, luckily we were one of them. It was really exciting to see the growth post-pandemic. Most of the crowd is also less conservative now, there are a lot of women breaking barriers and body positivity has become a big concept in India as well, people are appreciating their own skin now. My clients have been experimenting with new cutouts and silhouettes, so I am really enjoying the process of designing and creating more recently.”

“It’s great to see societal norms evolving and the industry progressing in the last few years. Customers being more body positive is so heartwarming, and as a designer, making a positive impact on your clients’ confidence is truly something to be proud of. Meghana Lambadri, creative director, designer, founder of your own label, you have quite a lot of things to be proud of. Other than these titles, what is one thing you would want the world to recognise about you?”

“I just want my unique proposition of fusionwear, where I combine traditional Indian wear with western styles to be recognised. I have a lot to offer and that there is a designer in India just waiting for an opportunity to showcase my work on a global platform. I don’t need people to have positive or negative opinions about me, i just want to be recognised as a designer at some point in my life. As MLL turns five and my business is doing exceedingly well, I wish that by our tenth birthday I have fully functioning retail stores across India and global recognition.”

“The fact that you started your label straight out of college and it is already doing exceptionally well, in ten years i’m sure i’ll be seeing MLL on billboards on my way to work!’

“Thank you, make sure to text me when you see it!”

“Definitely! thank you so much for speaking with us, it has been an absolute pleasure talking to you.”