Hello! Magazine India – Glamour Issue
Namrata Karad is the Co-Founder of Ahikoza (two Sanskrit words combined together that mean ‘the casr of snakeskin’) an exotic skins luxury brand that specialies in women’s handbags. Being an aficionado of exotic skins and handbags, Ahikoza provided the perfect opportunity to merge her two loves. Namrata elucidates, “With the launch of the label, we offer a select collection of unique handbag designs in beautiful, bold colours of exotic skins. Made by 21st century women, for the 21st century woman.”
The vision…Â “As a designer I think it’s your responsibility to always push boundaries and continue growing. Each Ahikoza handbag has a story behind it. My vision for Ahikoza is to continually elevate this by working with different treatments, jewels and skins. Offering my clientele value addition handbags that are cutting edge, yet timeless to their collection.”
Your signature aesthetic…Â “With so many designers respectfully focusing on exotic skins, I wanted to differentiate Ahikoza with a bang! Our aesthetic is exotics merger with geometrics. Our pieces are influenced by architectural installations, all intricately handmade to the millimeter. As far as my personal style aesthetic is more concerned – you can never go wrong with black.”
Top style must-dos…Â “Less is more. Staple pieces such as ripped jeans, and a classic white tee never fail. It’s the woman who carries any outfit – and it’s all about how she makes it her own.”
The design tools you can’t live without…Â “My diary, sketch board and camera.”
A piece from your collection that is the perfect reflection of your signature aesthetic? “The Madison minaudiere is the perfect reflection of the label’s signature aesthetic. Understated luxury, that’s unique due to its signature geometrical elements.”
What have been the greatest rewards from realising you design dreams? “Customisations are one of my favourite aspects of the business. My designs are an extension of my art and being able to share that is one of the greatest rewards.”
Which designer’s ethos speaks to you? “I have a love and appreciation for many designers. To name a few icons – Stella McCartney, Giambattista Valli, Tom Ford and Anamika Khanna. Their aesthetics are so true to their labels and you can find a piece of the brands spirit in each piece.”
Style muse…Â “Hard to pick one! My top three would be Kate Moss, Sienna Miller and Sonam Kapoor. They’re effortless and also experiment with different styles so very well.”
Tell us about some of the celebrities who’ve worn your label…Â “Having celebrities support Ahikoza has been so rewarding and flattering as a designer. We’ve had Sonam Kapoor and Bhumi Pednekar; to name a few, wear the label and have also furnished the personal wardrobes of many names internationally.”
What’s next? “I have my second label Leather United (bespoke travel essentials) launching at the end of the year. The aesthetic is completely different to Ahikoza, which is very exciting as a designer and I can’t wait to share it. Personally – I’m a moonchild. To live with abandon… live, love, and laugh!”
