HELLO! India Exclusive: Roshni Shewakramani on jewels, jeans and all things luxury

This shoot is all about high fashion and opulence. So, what does luxury mean to you? I feel everyday luxury is truly luxe. High thread count sheets, the softest rugs, mood lighting to suit the occasion, all with a slim crystal wine glass. Touch and feel trumps the “look” of things. That’s true luxury.

HELLO! India: How would you describe your personal fashion philosophy? Is there one style detail — be it a silhouette, fabric, or accessory — that instantly uplifts your mood?

Roshni Shewakramani: You wear the clothes, they don’t wear you — that’s my first, and perhaps only, philosophy. I love to mix and match luxe labels with finds from my mother’s wardrobe (she has an amazing vintage collection of all things glam starting from the ’80s). Jewels, of course, uplift me, whether it’s fashion or fine jewellery. Also, jeans, jeans, and more jeans. I think better in denim, dressed up or dressed down. I travel with at least five pairs!

HELLO! India: Do you prefer classic, timeless pieces or experimental fashion?

More cocktail wear than any of these. I don’t think I’ve parted with much from my wardrobe. I like to hold on to pieces, as we all know what goes around comes around. Right now, I’m mixing my old Cavalli shirts with boyfriend jeans and polki chandbalis. I’m not much into avant garde, but I do enjoy mixing Wang and Balenciaga with ghara pants or linen sarongs.

HELLO! India: How important is styling in your daily life? Does your outfit of the day influence your energy?

RS: Like most women, I’m a moody dresser. Weather and what the day’s calendar holds for me play a big role in my daily look. Comfort doesn’t need to be grunge; it can be elegant and breezy, which is much needed with Dubai’s climate. My biggest, most influencing factor is that I’m an Indian. So, there’s always some desi presence on me. It can be a jamawar shawl from Alaïa, or a Tarun Tahilani potli bag paired with a vest and tracks from OVO, or any cool streetwear brand.

HELLO! India: Having grown up and worked in Dubai, how would you describe the fashion sensibility of the Middle East compared to India? Do you find yourself blending these two worlds of style in your own wardrobe?

RS: Modest dressing can be super attractive, too. I’ve learnt that growing up in Dubai. A gorgeous abaya accessorised with a jadau set is such a unique look to the region. The women in Dubai love Indian culture and all its aspects, and they aren’t afraid to blend both worlds. Indian textile is perfect for the silhouette of a jalabiya or kaftan, and an increasing number of Indian and international designers are making region-specific collections for the Gulf. Brands like AMPM have done such an excellent job. Their designs truly cover both cultures with perfection.

HELLO! India: You’ve had such a fascinating journey — from the Chalhoub Group to founding Smitten, and now The Goddess Project. How has your career evolved along the way?

RS: In my 20s, it was super fun to work with such a prestigious force like the Chalhoub Group. I learnt a lot, and enjoyed the energy of being in a high fashion corporation. When the babies came along, I enjoyed eight years of being in the maternity and children’s wear industry. I visited all the kids’ fairs. It was the cutest phase of my career. We hosted children’s fashion shows with ‘mommy and me’ looks, which were super successful. I was always hosting upcoming brands on a smaller platform. Right now, it’s simply thrilling. Tanya, my partner at The Goddess Project, and I enjoy creating these exciting curations with Southeast Asian brands, covering everything from fashion to wellness.

HELLO! India: Which luxury brands have been long-time personal favourites?

RS: YSL, Dolce&Gabbana, Celine are all favourites from the mainstream. I have a tendency to mix athleisure with high fashion. There’s a healthy dose of Adidas, Alo, Gymshark and Fear of God in my wardrobe. Other than these, Maison Margiela, Magda Butrym, Vetements and anything cool in the menswear section is right up my alley. I’m also obsessed with Anokhi and Nicobar. They’re both among my staples! On the high-street front, I love Oysho, Cos, and &Other Stories.

HELLO! India: Your most treasured luxury buy?

RS: My watches. Each timepiece was bought at a special occasion. It all started with my Chanel J12, which my parents gifted me after my high school graduation.

HELLO! India: If your life could be styled by any one luxury fashion house, which would it be, and why?

RS: I don’t think I can narrow it down to one. I’m too eccentric and individualistic to follow a single style statement. One day, I’m Goth in all-black leather, and the next, I’m in a cotton patiala suit, with jasmine in my hair. My mother, Pungu Awtani, is an established local designer, well loved for 30 years. I’d only put my entire faith in her! She strives for perfection and follows the highest standard in quality and finishing. She’s the only one who can fix, tweak and craft my crazy needs.

HELLO! India: Finally, the one style rule you live by?

RS: That there needs to be one — if not more — ‘Made in India’ key piece in my outfit. It could be a Chanel brooch on an Anamika Khanna blazer, or juttis worn with a pair of Alaïa jeans.

FASHIONABLY, YOURS

Minimalist or maximalist? “Max all the way!”

Flats, heels, or sneakers? “Kolhapuris — even before all the Prada-nes.”

Diamonds or emeralds? “Emeralds, baby!”

A fashion city that feels like home to you? “Milan. It’s super easy and unpretentious.”

One beauty product that’s always in your bag? “A bottle of Rose Oudgasm by Kayali. Scent is everything!“

A brand you’re currently obsessed with? “Golden Goose with a splash of Skims, and those yummy bags from Kwanpen!”

Your latest luxury splurge? “An Hermès Black Kelly Cut.”

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