THE MOTHER AS MUSE

Inspiration has no solid starting point, but, very often, for many in the fashion industry, the creative jumping-off point has been their mother. Their mother's style or items from their closets have defined these creatives' design journeys and influenced several collections. In this feature, Ashwini Arun Kumar gets eight accomplished individuals to share the early memories of their mothers that continue to inspire them

- Ashwini Arun Kumar

Monica Shah is a designer and one-half of label JADE by Monica & Karishma, which she runs with her sister-in-law Karishma Swali. After staying focussed on the Mumbai market for much of the label's life, JADE's presence has now expanded to other cities in India where fashion enthusiasts can experience its modern and minimal aesthetic. As part of the family that runs Chanakya Atelier, a 30-year-old embroidery house known for its work with several international fashion brands such as Dior and Gucci, there's no limit to Monica's knowledge about India's heritage craft techniques. However, she now looks at them from a revivalist and preservationist point of view, often working with grassroots artisans to modernise the craft in order to help its makers thrive in the new landscape.

"My mom's heirloom pieces fuelled my passion for gold jewellery and shaped how I approach design - with a deep respect for tradition, detail, and timeless beauty" - MONICA SHAH

"Growing up, I was always fascinated by my mother’s temple jewellery and her beautiful Kanjivaram saris. There was something so powerful and graceful about them. Watching her get ready made me fall in love with the richness of gold, the intricate craftsmanship, and the idea that what you wear can carry so much meaning. Her heirloom pieces fuelled my passion for gold jewellery and shaped how I approach design — with a deep respect for tradition, detail, and timeless beauty.