HELLO! India Exclusive: All things fashion with the 'fabulous' Shalini Passi

HELLO! India: Whatever be the occasion — a red carpet appearance, an award show, or a private party — how do you plan your ensemble for the night?

Shalini Passi: The occasion itself sets the mood for me, and the dress code naturally guides my choice. Comfort is equally important. I believe an ensemble must be well-fitted, flattering, and appropriate for the moment. Beyond that, I tend to be quite instinctive. At times, a particular colour, silhouette, or detail captures my attention, and I build my entire look around it. I also go through phases where I become drawn to specific styles — it might be the cut of a blouse, a fishtail gown, or even a hairstyle. For example, over the past year and a half, I’ve found myself gravitating towards fishtail gowns. 

When something works, I enjoy exploring it through variations — the same cut expressed in different textures, embroideries, or colours. It’s a rhythm of comfort and creativity; I embrace a style until I feel it has run its course, and then I naturally move on to the next chapter of my fashion journey.

Over the years, who or what has influenced your fashion sensibility the most? And do you find yourself more inspired by global fashion icons or Indian tastemakers?

Shalini Passi: My earliest influences were very close to home — my grandmother, and my mother, who carried herself with such elegance in her sarees, as well as in tailored pants and jackets. Their sense of style left a lasting impression on me. I’ve also always admired the timeless glamour of Hollywood actresses from the 1950s and ’60s. There’s something about the way they dressed back then that continues to inspire me. 

When it comes to Indian tastemakers, I deeply appreciate women who celebrate our heritage by wearing exquisite handloom sarees. While I don’t wear handloom as often as I’d like, I have immense admiration for those who champion India’s beautiful textiles and keep that legacy alive.

HELLO! India: As an art collector and patron, how does your love for art spill into your wardrobe choices? Also, tell us about the most favourite art-inspired couture pieces you’ve worn till date.

Shalini Passi: Art has always been central to my life, so it naturally seeps into my fashion choices. I’m drawn to pieces that carry depth, narrative, and craftsmanship — much like art. One of my most cherished art-inspired ensembles was the couture piece Manish Malhotra created for me in collaboration with artist Paresh Maity for Cannes 2025. The design was truly special — it translated a painting onto couture, depicting India’s heritage in all its diversity, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. The piece resonated with so many people, and I was deeply moved by the way it was received globally.

HELLO! India: What’s your go-to brand, when you want an outfit or accessory that can never go wrong? Any emerging designers currently on your radar?

Shalini Passi: Valentino and Dolce & Gabbana are my go-to brands when I want something timeless yet striking. In India, I deeply admire Manish Malhotra and Rohit Gandhi + Rahul Khanna for the way they merge heritage with contemporary style. I also love exploring emerging designers whose innovative vision and craftsmanship bring a refreshing edge to fashion — it’s always inspiring to see how new voices are shaping the future of design.

HELLO! India: Tell us the one fashion rule you have always sworn by, and one that you love to break the most.

Shalini Passi: I swear by sarees. You can never go wrong with one. It’s timeless, elegant, feminine, and powerful, all at once. Whether you’re unsure of what to wear or are moving between occasions, a saree always works. Convention is the rule I love to break. In 2018 and 2019, I shaved my head and often wore sleek black-and-white jumpsuits with minimal accessories. What many saw as unconventional became one of my most celebrated looks. For me, it was a reminder that true style lies in individuality and confidence, not in following the rulebook.

HELLO! India: How would you describe your personal style in just three words? And if you had to describe the Shalini Passi signature element, what would that be?

Shalini Passi: I’d describe my style as eclectic, eccentric, and maximalist. My signature element would be my love for mixing things up — especially with accessories and prints. For me, prints are like paintings. Years ago, I came across the idea that prints aren’t “classy,” but I’ve always felt the opposite. Prints evoke entire worlds — a Dolce & Gabbana print instantly transports you to Portofino, while Indian prints carry the richness of our own heritage. As an artist, I see prints as storytelling, and I love wearing them in ways that feel bold, expressive, and beautiful.

HELLO! India: What excites you most about the future of fashion and style in India?

Shalini Passi: India has so much to offer the world of fashion — not just in terms of catering to the West, but for ourselves, as well. Our fashion vocabulary is incredibly rich, with its colours, textures, embroideries, and crafts. What excites me most is the possibility of pushing this heritage further through more creativity and innovation in design. I’d love to see Indian fashion embracing bold new silhouettes and ideas while continuing to celebrate our artistry and craftsmanship. That combination, I believe, is where the true future of Indian style lies. 

PHOTOS: RYAN MARTIS

STYLING: NUPUR MEHTA; MAKEUP: SHOBHITA KHURANA; HAIR: JB DUBUY;
ASSISTANT STYLIST: SANSKRITI SHARMA; FASHION ASSISTANT: RIYA SHARMA

This story was featured in the September '25 issue of HELLO! India. For more exclusive stories, subscribe to the magazine here.