Today we’d like to introduce you to Ruchi Agrawal
Hi Ruchi, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey began in a small Indian town, where the vibrant culture and traditional textiles ignited my artistic passion. After pursuing design education and collaborating with esteemed designers, I worked on Fair-Trade projects, connecting grassroots Indian artisans with the global market. This experience not only enriched my creative journey but also offered profound insights into the lives, dreams, and challenges of marginalized communities and their changemakers.
Through my travels, I witnessed the sacrifices women often make to prioritize their families, yet I was equally inspired by resilient women who overcame immense obstacles to pursue their dreams. These stories of strength and perseverance led to the creation of Paisley Affair.
My vision is to craft a stunning collection using authentic, earth-rooted materials—celebrating women’s dreams, stories, and the beauty they bring to the world.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s been an interesting journey! The biggest challenge was capturing the essence of resilient women’s stories through the lens of Indian textiles. The apparel industry is often glamorized, focusing on luxury lifestyles and models. Using clothing as a medium to spotlight stories of hardship and resilience wasn’t a straightforward task, but it was a meaningful one.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Paisley Affair is a women-led clothing brand that celebrates the beauty of Indian heritage through soft, breathable cotton pajamas and robes featuring exquisite handmade prints. We specialize in blending traditional Indian craftsmanship with modern designs to create timeless, comfortable, and luxurious loungewear.
What sets us apart is our commitment to sustainability, small-batch production, and empowering artisans. Each piece is crafted with care, using eco-friendly materials and centuries-old Indian block-printing techniques, ensuring every item tells a unique story. Our brand isn’t just about clothing; it’s about honoring traditions, supporting artisan communities, and celebrating the resilience and dreams of women everywhere.
We are most proud of our mission to create a positive impact—bringing conscious fashion to life while amplifying the voices of resilient women. Paisley Affair is more than a brand; it’s a movement that encourages women to embrace their individuality, connect with meaningful stories, and indulge in the luxury of thoughtful design.
We want the readers to know that every Paisley Affair piece is designed with intention—to inspire comfort, confidence, and a connection to the rich tapestry of Indian culture. By choosing Paisley Affair, you’re not just buying loungewear; you’re supporting sustainability, artistry, and a brighter future for women and artisans alike.
How do you think about luck?
Luck has certainly played a role in my journey with Paisley Affair, both in life and business. On the positive side, I feel fortunate to have grown up surrounded by the vibrant textiles and rich traditions of India, which became the foundation of my artistic passion. My formal design education and the opportunities to collaborate with renowned designers were also moments of good fortune that helped shape my creative journey.
When it comes to Paisley Affair, I’ve been lucky to cross paths with incredible artisans whose dedication and talent bring our vision to life. Meeting resilient women who’ve inspired me with their stories of determination and courage has been another stroke of luck that fuels my drive to create a brand that celebrates empowerment.
That said, there have been challenges that felt like bad luck at the time—navigating the complexities of the apparel industry, building a sustainable business model, and carving a space for a brand that focuses on authenticity over glamour. But I’ve come to realize that even these hurdles were valuable lessons that shaped the brand and me as its founder.
Ultimately, I believe that while luck opens doors, it’s passion, hard work, and resilience that make the difference. I’m grateful for every twist and turn, as they’ve brought Paisley Affair to life and allowed me to stay true to my purpose of blending tradition with modernity while empowering women and artisans.
Pricing:
- Pj sets around $80
- Robes around $65
Contact Info:
- Website: https://paisleyaffair.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paisleyaffair/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558490793372
