There’s pastel pink, mint green, hints of teal and splashes of bright lemon yellow. No, we are not talking about cassata ice-cream, but Aisha Rao’s new line displayed at her first-ever store at Delhi’s DLF Emporio. It is cool, like the ice cream.
The Hyderbad-based designer has indeed named the prints after beloved rainbow dessert. “Like the different flavours of casatta, my designs too are a reflection of the harmonious blend of contrasting elements—embellishments, styles, colour,” says Rao.
The new store is hybrid, character-driven, and experimental; not very different from her own personality. It showcases signature pieces from her recent collections that have grabbed attention, both nationally and internationally.
An example is the Kinfolk line, which features the Nola-draped sari, the Solstice Jacquard dress, the Topkapi teal gharara, the Fleur kurta set, and the Yin Yang sharara.
“The designs form a cohesive narrative of my evolving vision. If there were ever a way to recognise an Aisha Rao creation without the label, these garments would be the perfect embodiment,” she says, pointing towards the recognisable melange of abstract prints on the garments.
It has been quite the joy ride since Rao launched her label in 2017, despite a few hiccups along the way. “There have been times when we were not given a show at a fashion week, or didn’t have a mass celebrity endorsement for the brand. Such things that can get unnerving, but I have learned to humbly accept my place in the larger scheme of things,” says Rao, who has Malaika Arora, Bhumi Pednekar, Sara Ali Khan and Tara Sutaria as her clotheshorses.
The designer has dreamed of opening a store for as long as she can remember. “For a fashion designer, having a physical space is not only a significant milestone; it’s a place where they can feel completely themselves.
It’s also an opportunity to build a personal connection between my craft and those who want to experience it,” she says, adding that she always knew Delhi would be the city she would build her ‘concrete’ presence in.
“Delhi thrives on showmanship, expressing itself through bold choices and vibrant energy, just like we do. Being here has helped us stand out in every way possible,” she adds. Availability” Aisharao.com; 322B, Second Floor, Dlf Emporio, Vasant Kunj, Delhi