Prabal Gurun
I first saw Prabal Gurung when I attended his interview with Karan Johar around the block. Little did I know that he was an innovator for fashion, sustainability and culture himself. Gurung’s work is thoughtful and you can tell. As his clients become more and more A-list, from award shows to the street, he understands that each woman isn’t a mannequin. The fitting and color of his styling is unique for each partner, yet showcases a glamorous vibrancy and freedom to each. I reflect on his understanding of how fabric and color root from his Nepalese mother’s boutique and his exploration of New Delhi vendors.
Andrew Kwon
Andrew Kwon is only 30 years old, yet he displays his designs with such mature craft. His choice to narrow his label to evening and bridal wear sets him apart because he made the decision to know who he is. Still, he lets go of bridal standards in the studio with a soft elegance to each piece. His gowns should be admired in a dark room. Kwon matches grandeur with a slick tail of poise in each couture. His love for length complements his dedication to historically-inspired busts. He’s not afraid to take up space.
Kwon won the Forbes’ inaugural 30 Under 30, Class of 2025 North America
Ru by Rupal
Rupal is dedicated to dressing brown women, even without her outright saying it. The LA designer incorporates streetwear into performance. At the red carpet or on a concert stage, her clothing has a need for speed. It’s not just “hip”. What makes Ru cool is that it honors the drapes and saris women in villages have worn. Her simplicity with pleats, folds, and baggy all combine to form the rustic modernity we see today.
Rupal was included on the 2024 Forbes 30 Under 30 List.
Gundi Studios
Natasha Sumant created Gundi Studios and it’s a mood. You’ll first notice that it seems like her clothing is hiding something. A hidden word in Hindi engraved on the back of a coat. Perhaps it’s the way her models distance themselves from the camera. A fear of vulnerability spikes out in textured sweaters over the silky, white unders she often pairs with it. The fit of each assembly screams “What are you looking at” from a girl lazing on her couch. Even so, Sumant’s clothing is meant to be photographed. Her bold colors highlight her mantra to see more South Asian women who say, do, and wear what they want. The female “thug” is her name. Now, we just need to take our focus away from the “female” part.
Gundi Studios was just featured by Vogue for the venture to upcycle in order to design sweaters.