Indian designer Payal Singhal has built a label that seamlessly bridges traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary, global sensibility. Known for reimagining classic Indian silhouettes through vibrant prints, versatile separates and effortless bridalwear, she has helped redefine occasion dressing for a new generation of women. One of the first Indian designers to establish a retail presence in New York’s Gramercy Park in 2006, Singhal has shared a longstanding relationship with the city for over two decades.
“New York has always been a city that inspires me. It played an important role in shaping my early understanding of fashion and has remained a meaningful market for the brand over the years”, said the designer.
Adding to the milestone roster, Singhal unveiled her latest collection, Shahnameh, at the grand opening of Pernia’s Pop-Up Studio’s first-ever store on Madison Avenue on June 11. Presented in partnership with The Culture Tree and South Asian Fashion Week (SAFW), the evening brought together influential voices from fashion, culture, technology and entrepreneurship to celebrate the growing global impact of South Asian creativity and design.
The presentation of Shahnameh underscored both Singhal’s enduring connection with New York and her ongoing exploration of heritage through design. ”The collection draws inspiration from centuries of history and mythology, reinterpreted through a contemporary lens for the modern woman, and I’m excited to share that narrative with a global audience in a city that has been such an important part of my journey” reflected the designer.
Drawing from the Persian epic The Book of Kings, the Spring/Summer 2026 collection explores the interplay between tradition and modernity. Rich silks, opulent brocades and intricate embroideries evoke the artistry of illuminated manuscripts, while a palette that shifts from deep jewel tones to brighter, vibrant hues speaks to themes of renewal, reinvention and continuity.
A key highlight of the evening was a panel discussion curated and hosted by The Culture Tree, which examined the globalisation of South Asian culture, fashion and identity, as well as the increasing influence of media and digital platforms in shaping contemporary cultural narratives and consumer behaviour. Moderated by Anu Sehgal, Founder and CEO of The Culture Tree, the conversation featured Payal Singhal, Rema Vasan, former Head of North America at TikTok, and Anish Melwani, former Chairman and CEO of LVMH. The event also included a keynote address by Shipra Sharma, Founder and CEO of South Asian Fashion Week, bringing together leaders from fashion, beauty, media and culture for an engaging exchange of ideas on the future of South Asian creativity on the global stage.
With Shahnameh, Payal Singhal effortlessly bridged the past and the future, drawing from centuries-old narratives while imagining new possibilities for contemporary Indian fashion.