With voluminous lehengas, dramatic florals and sensuous cholis, Mahima Mahajan has become one of India’s most favoured designers in the modern bridal wear market.
From brides to their bridesmaids, every new-age shopper’s dream destination lies in Delhi’s Chhatarpur neighbourhood, at Mahajan’s magnificent three-storey studio. However, the signature blooms we see today were not always her forte; the Delhi-based designer says, “The journey of designing has been a process of constant discovery – finding and creating something new each time. Over the years, this exploration has shaped florals into the label’s proud signature.”
However, her mantra goes beyond the prints and patterns; the magic in Mahima Mahajan’s creations lies in the tasteful, form-fitting silhouettes that strike the perfect chord between contemporary and traditional. From corsets to strappy blouses and charming necklines, her pieces are perfectly in tune with the times. But current trends do not define Mahajan’s design philosophy. On maintaining a timeless aesthetic, the couturier expresses, “I think that the one thing that remains constant, no matter the time or year, is the desire to look good. Every woman wants to wear something that flatters their body type. I personally love corsets because they beautifully contour the curves and give the wearer a distinct confidence.”
Needless to say, the chapter has closed on restrictive wedding wear, conservative necklines, and rigid colour palettes. “Women of today are very open to trying new styles. I don’t see any restriction in their choices; they are more open to bralettes and new types of blouses that keep giving me inspiration.” While the thrill of inventing new designs for modern buyers might be keeping other designers on their toes, not Mahima. She rather happily claims, “I love that, nowadays, when people come to us, they have a clear picture of what they want. Be it social groups or media influence, today’s consumers are very well aware of exactly how they want to look, so, for me, it is a plus point.”
However, when catering to such a vast market that is globally influenced, creative differences are inevitable. Although the designer acknowledges that, back in the day, clashes might have happened with a client’s preferences, today she embraces it all. “My clients come to me with a lot of inspiration, be it derived from Bollywood or social media influencers. But if they want something, I am here to give it to them. I love helping people create their personalised versions of trends they like, and bringing a brand-new look to life.”
Often, like many good things, Mahajan’s creations have been subject to plagiarism over the years. Versions of her signature designs can often be seen being sold under different names and price tags. The designer’s answer? “If I could, I would put a big ban on plagiarism.”
She further adds, “I have been affected by plagiarism to an extent where I realised that the copy market has a reach beyond our understanding. This practice has become so widespread and rampant that I feel it should stop now.”
Over the past decade, Mahima Mahajan has exemplified innovation in the modern Indian luxury fashion industry with designs that appeal to the new generation. Her creations are a true reflection of contemporary ethnic style that is global in nature yet rooted in tradition. A journey that began with only two tailors has now transformed into a revered label recognised by fashion patrons and renowned personalities alike. From whimsical prints to chic silhouettes, the couturier has created a niche that many might try to emulate, but never champion quite the same.
