IN CONVERSATION WITH NIKITA KARIZMA
interview by JANA LETONJA
British-Indian designer and creative director Nikita Karizma is breaking barriers in luxury fashion design across the globe. A household name amongst A-listers from Hollywood to Bollywood, Nikita proudly represents her South-Asian roots through the design and brand positioning of her eponymous label. Inspired by the glamour of Bollywood, the rebellious undercurrent of London, and the political movements that decentralised euro-centric fashion ideals and merged high-fashion with street-style, Nikita has reinvented the concept of a global design house.
Nikita, you come from a three-generation family in the Indian saree retail business. How did growing up in that environment shape your understanding of fashion?
Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the Indian saree business in London’s South Asian community gave me an authentic perspective on fashion and its role in culture. Storytelling was woven into every garment, and generations of style were passed down through traditional Indian craftsmanship. Some of my fondest memories are of dressing up my Barbie dolls with scraps of Eastern fabrics and jewelry remnants I’d find in our store. Those moments fueled my creativity and inspired me to explore my identity through design.
The saree is such a powerful symbol of heritage and identity in Indian culture. How has this influenced your designs and your approach to creating pieces that transcend age and body type?
The saree is a simple yet profound 5-6 yards of fabric that is made to fit everyone. It allows you to define your beauty and style, making it timeless and versatile. With over 30 ways to drape it, the saree communicates individuality and evolves with you. This versatility inspires my approach to design. I strive to create pieces that celebrate self-expression and beauty at every stage of life. Fashion is so powerful to communicate identity and empower individuality.
What inspired you to start your own label, and how did you go from a £2,000 custom order for Little Mix, to launching an internationally recognized brand?
After graduating from the London College of Fashion, my designs caught the attention of industry insiders and were commissioned by musicians. The £2,000 order for Little Mix helped me fund the start of my label, which grew organically through custom projects and eventually evolved into a ready-to-wear label. I’ve always admired how celebrities influence youth culture, and contributing to their positive impact through fashion has been incredibly fulfilling.
Your work reflects a blend of Bollywood glamour and London’s rebellious fashion spirit. How do you balance these two influences in your designs?
As a British-Indian daughter of immigrant parents, I embody both cultures, and my designs reflect that duality. I love the opulence of Bollywood and the edgy, rebellious nature of London fashion. My work combines embellished metallic finishes, experimental fabrics, and flattering silhouettes that cater to the modern, global muse.
In what ways does your work push boundaries in today’s fashion landscape?
I design for a global muse, blending cultures seamlessly. Seeing a pair of jeans designed in London, manufactured in India, and worn by Hollywood and Bollywood icons, and even someone on the streets of London or LA, encapsulates my vision. My work aims to break cultural barriers, proving that creativity transcends borders.
Indo-Western culture, earthy palettes, and figure-hugging silhouettes are prominent in your recent designs. Can you share more about how you select these elements to tell a story through each piece?
For my Spring-Summer 2025 collection, I drew inspiration from the past while envisioning a global future. Draped pleats and flowing front panels echo the organic drape of the saree, while corset shapes add a contemporary edge. I also incorporated henna-inspired prints, paying homage to my childhood memories of Bollywood movies and henna art. Through these elements, I aim to tell stories that resonate universally.
As a British-Indian designer, you’ve managed to bridge East and West in your work. How do you see your brand contributing to greater diversity and inclusion in the global fashion industry?
Representation matters, and my brand is a celebration of diversity. My studio reflects this ethos, welcoming people from all walks of life. Fashion is for everyone, and I believe it can be a unifying force, bridging gaps and fostering inclusivity across cultures.
How do you stay true to your cultural roots and identity while constantly evolving to meet the demands of a competitive, fast-paced industry?
My cultural roots are my foundation, they inspire creativity and authenticity. At the same time, I embrace innovation, incorporating sustainable fabrics and 3D embellishments into my designs. By blending traditional techniques with modern technology, I honor the past while creating for the future.
What is your long-term vision for the Nikita Karizma label, and how do you hope it will impact the global fashion industry in the future?
I dream of building a fashion house for the modern global muse, expanding into lifestyle products alongside fashion. Through social media, I want to share the journey of running a fashion business, inspiring and empowering the next generation. My goal is to make fashion an inclusive and uplifting experience.
Looking forward, what can you share with us about your upcoming projects and collaborations?
We’re building a new studio headquarters, opening in London in 2025, designed to merge creativity and lifestyle. It will house a clothing atelier, showroom, photo studio, and office space, all designed with a lifestyle aesthetic that is reflective of myself and the brand. We’ll also use it to create authentic social media content, inviting our audience into the heart of our creative process. You’ll have to follow along to see the completed studio and upcoming collections.
