HELLO! India Exclusive: Jaya Raheja's life in style

Interior design may be her profession, but Jaya Raheja is driven by her passion for fashion. With a penchant for dramatic, avant-garde looks, she’s a prominent figure in Indian couture circles and at international fashion weeks. “My outfits can’t be conventional and must always have an element of drama. If they don’t, I create some myself, either with accessories or changing the way I wear it,” Jaya shares.

“I once turned a classic sequinned skirt into a strapless dress with a bodysuit inside. I find these creative fashion moments most exciting!” From the family that runs K Raheja Corp, one of India’s premier real estate conglomerates, Jaya has made an indubitable mark in global fashion. She shares her favourites, dos and don’ts, and a lot more on her sartorial choices.

HELLO! India: Your Instagram handle says “immortal in couture.” Could you elaborate on this?

Jaya Raheja: It refers to forever being in couture, which, to me, means being bespoke, sophisticated, and timeless not only in fashion but also in my lifestyle. That translates to always staying true to myself. It’s only then can we remain timeless.

HELLO! India: Your style is experimental yet classic on occasion, ultra bold on others. Describe your sense of style.

Jaya Raheja: If I had to describe it in one word, I’d say limitless. I don’t believe fashion needs to be limited to one kind of style. Mine goes across the board because I’m experimental and creative. I try everything from classic looks to ultra-high fashion. But most importantly, I must be able to carry off anything I put on and make it my own.

HELLO! India: What’s one change you’ve brought about that’s improved your lifestyle?

I’ve started craving for zero social obligations and time at home to myself. We live in a society on social steroids all year round, and it’s only getting busier. I love living a balanced life and have started making a conscious choice to stay home when I need it and just do nothing. I stick to one weekly social lunch, and my new love for mahjong a couple of times a week.

HELLO! India: Among all your interior design projects, which do you think stands out the most? And what are your thoughts on the global move to minimalism in interior design from a maximal aesthetic?

Jaya Raheja: The interiors project I love most is ARTESIA by Martin Kemp. It was my very first project, in which I was involved from the ground level right up to the show flat. Also, since Martin is English, I picked up how meticulous they are in their approach — a trait I carried forward to other projects. I’ve neither ever been a fan of heavy traditional interiors, nor do I love modern minimalism. I’ve always preferred a contemporary look — neither too heavy, nor too light — as I think it lends the right amount of warmth to a space.

HELLO! India: Can you think back to the time when you began to be noticed for your style? Which defining moment put you on the fashion map?

Jaya Raheja: I’ve loved fashion since childhood. It grew all the more intense in college as everyone in London was so well dressed and fashion forward. It was probably back then that I was first noticed for my style. This interest gradually grew, and with time, I became more confident and bolder in my choices. I began to invest in luxury designer apparel when I turned 35. Five years later, I was invited to my first fashion show by Gucci in Milan as a gift from them. Since then, I haven’t missed a single fashion week.

HELLO! India: What excites you most about attending fashion weeks in Paris, Milan, and London?

Jaya Raheja: The most exciting aspect of fashion weeks is probably the high-paced energy, the creativity, and the “who knows what’s going to happen” vibe! Paris is by far my favourite. I could just do nothing but sip coffee and people-watch from the courtyards of Parisian hotels. It’s the one week I have to myself, doing what I absolutely love. Also, the hustle and bustle of running from one show to another — often having to get changed in the car — gets my adrenaline pumping. You’re also surrounded by people who are passionate about fashion. It’s all infectious! The other highlights include getting to witness the collections that will set the tone for the next year in fashion, and also being around the best-dressed people from around the world, fostering connections.

HELLO! India: You’ve worn creations by a plethora of brands and designers. Which designer, Indian or international, do you admire for their work?

Jaya Raheja: Internationally, Schiaparelli is on top of my list, followed by Alaïa and Loewe. You just can’t go wrong with their pieces — sophisticated and elegant, bold and chic. I’m also watching out for Phoebe Philo and Pierre Cardin. As for Indian designers, I love Abu Sandeep for their exaggerated pieces, Manish Malhotra for his versatility, Gaurav Gupta for his sculptured silhouettes, and Amit Aggarwal for his futuristic glamour. Among the new ones, I’ve been following the work of Srushti Patil and Itrh.

HELLO! India: Do you believe in investing in timeless fashion pieces, or do you enjoy experimenting with trend driven looks more?

Jaya Raheja: I definitely veer more towards timeless pieces, even though I try out everything, trend-driven or not. While I often pick up trendy pieces, classic designs are easier to repeat. It’s also worth mixing the two. For example, I’ve paired a classic leopard print bodysuit from YSL with an on-trend skirt with an exaggerated hip from Phoebe Philo.

HELLO! India: How does your approach to dressing change between a fashion show, a social event, and everyday life?

Jaya Raheja: Dressing appropriately for an occasion is critical in my world. For a party or any other social gathering, I usually ask about the number of people attending not because I’m nosy; it just helps me decide what to wear. When I travel for shows, I write down every detail of every look so I pack on point. My outfits are certainly more OTT and edgy for fashion-related events. At home, I need to be at my most comfortable. So I live in my co-ord tracks and am also happy to step out in them for a coffee. I keep it smart and simple at work, often throwing on a jacket over my tracks, as I need to be comfortably dressed in my field. However, whether it’s OTT or simple, keeping it chic is the key. Remember, it’s always better to dress up than to dress down!

HELLO! India: What role do accessories — bags, shoes, jewellery — play in completing your outfits?

Jaya Raheja: Accessories are crucial to a look. My most favourite accessory is a jacket, especially when I’m pairing it with something sleeveless. It elevates any attire, makes you look smart, and never fails to impress! Bags, shoes, and jewellery are also essential, but it’s imperative to have the right balance.

HELLO! India: Finally, tell us the fashion rules you hold absolutely sacred.

Jaya Raheja: Fit is everything. And nothing can be worse than copying someone else’s style. Own your style. Get help from a stylist if you’re unsure, but stick to being you! Next, don’t be a slave to trends. Mix and match high-street with designer wear to create an incredible balance. Lastly, confidence is my most important accessory. Own what you wear, don’t let it own you — this works like magic, and you can rest assured that you’ll look amazing in just about anything.

FASHIONABLY, YOURS

The hero piece in your closet: Jackets, jackets and jackets!

The best compliment you’ve ever received: Someone once told me they wait for me to arrive at a party to see what I’m wearing!

Your go-to e-com website for a pick-me-up: Net-a-porter, as duties are prepaid, and they come right to your doorstep in two days.

The most sentimental heirloom in your possession: My grandmother’s solitaire pendant. It was gifted to me at my wedding.

The items on your wishlist: Gold Cartier ear cuffs, Schiaparelli’s paintbrush suit from their SS ’26 collection, and the Argent Mini Kelly from Hermès.

A fictional character whose wardrobe you’d like to steal: Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker) from Sex and the City. I can see myself in her choices.

A luxury brand that has never failed you: Alaïa.

If not couture, you prefer…: Good-quality prêt or ready-to wear that will last a long time. It’s the sustainable way to go.

This story was featured in the Vol 1. Issue 6 of HELLO! India. For more exclusive stories, subscribe to the magazine here.