In Conversation With The Renowned Celebrity Indian Designer, Dolly J

Renowned Celebrity Indian Designer

Delhi-based designer, Dolly Jhunjhunwala’s label Dolly J is an Indian Luxury Fashion Brand defined by Its distinctive craftsmanship, structured silhouettes, minimalist and androgynous ensembles.

Her products are engineered with old age techniques of embroidery & hand-woven textiles such as Banarasi Silk & Lucknowi Chikankari. Their product design process is rooted in traditional dyeing & weaving techniques.

Dolly J uses the textile & techniques of the craft in a very contemporary and modern manner by blending it with western silhouettes. It’s juxtaposing the beauty of the craft and the possibility of a fresh approach.
Dolly J as she narrates her story through her own words and talks to us about her journey as an Indian designer in the fashion industry.

How you got inclined towards fashion?

My mother was a self-taught fashion designer and had a keen eye and passion for fashionable clothing. I started learning at a very young age in her fashion studio.

Have you always wanted to experiment with fashion?

Yes, always. I am always fascinated by Fashion.

What’s your take on technology merging with fashion in India?

Technology has a very important role to play now. The modern software allows you to virtually create what is there on the drawing board.

What inspired you to start your own label?

I always wanted to incept a label that would be synonymous with the best couture ensembles made in our country.

Where all have you showcased, nationally and internationally?

I’ve showcased in India, Paris, UK, USA, and UAE.
Is there a particular collection which is very close to your heart? Tell us why.
Yes. The collection made for my very first ramp show with FDCI will always be close to my heart.

What is the most memorable moment in your fashion journey?

I remember when I got a call from Sonam Kapoor’s stylist, even while the show was being live-streamed, they booked 3 ensembles for her to wear! That was my proudest moment.
Which are the milestones you would like to share with us about?
The biggest milestone for me would be the opening of my own flagship stores in Delhi and Mumbai.

Any specific designer or its work you idolize?

I’d say its Alexander McQueen.

What do you think is the difference between Indian and international fashion?

The world has become a very small place. The internet has made it possible for people to be aware of global trends. A multi-national brand like ZARA will launch its new collection in all its stores across the world. I believe, fashion trends everywhere.

Being an idol for many, if there is anything that you would want to change in the fashion industry, what would it be?

I would, in fact, love to see more sustainable clothing, accessories, and packaging being promoted so as to leave a minimum carbon footprint in the environment and ultimately the world.

Is there an artist you relate to the most whose ideology can be a part of your collection?

Yes! ANATSUI – An African artist who used scrap tin covers and make great art out of them. I love their work.

How do you perceive the future of Indian fashion in the Global Fashion Industry?

Indian-ness is ubiquitous- be it architecture, tradition, culture or art. The fashion industry is no exception. We have been unique and have been inspiring the world by setting trends all across. Indian fashion industry definitely will have a big role to play in the Global Fashion Industry.

What should be changed in fashion education in India?

I believe the fashion education really lacks the technical construction of a garment.

What is your signature element in every garment of yours?

I love to fuse the western silhouettes with traditional Indian embroideries and that is a very prominent feature when you buy a “Dolly J” gown!

Is there any message or tip that you would like to give to the fashion enthusiasts and the new generation in the fashion industry?

I’d say live the full life of the mind, exhilarated by the new ideas, intoxicated by the romance of the unusual, which is rightly said by Ernest Hemingway.

I think the above very beautifully put what life should be about! And I absolutely live by the motto.
Dolly J has become a Global luxury Fashion Brand by catering through its own flagship stores both in New Delhi & Mumbai and also branching out in the Middle East, Europe & America. The label is present at India’s Premium Fashion stores like Aza (Delhi & Mumbai), Ogaan (Delhi), Ensemble (Delhi & Mumbai), Monsoon (Ahmedabad), Elahe (Hyderabad), Evoluzione (Chennai) & Carma (Delhi).

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