Say hello to the latest mix of sultry, feminine, and modern, all landing in a delicate spot between practicality and whimsy, welcome to the world of Pallavi’s creations. A well known name among sophisticated individuals who know their mind and are bold enough to express it swear by Pallavi Jaikishan’s collection.
An heiress, wife of the late music director Jaikishan, a doing grand-mom, fashion designer Pallavi Jaikishan’s life has come a full circle. Pallavi Jaikishan rather prefers to keep a low profile, shying away from publicity and the glare of the flash lights so much a part of her husband’s profession.
She hails from the famous house of Mariwalas (owners of the FMCG brand Marico), who market brands like Saffola, Parachute Hair Oil, Sweekar Cooking Oil, and many more. Known as the toast of the high society, Pallavi had the world at her feet. But this doe-eyed Kutchi beauty decided to delve into the Indian fashion scene after completing arts from the Elphinstone College. Her charming styles with emphatically sensuous cuts makes any garment look its romantic best.
Pallavi’s foray into the fashion world was subtle and gradual. She recalls that she designed and embroidered her own saris for film premieres which were appreciated by friends. Soon she opened her own store, ‘Paraphernalia’ in an elite part of Mumbai in 1972. As the name suggests the shop had everything- clothes, household linen and designer items for the home. She also created complete bridal trousseaus for her exclusive clientele from her residence.
It was a visitor from USA, Sister Max, a disciple of the Dalai Lama, to her shop who gave Pallavi her big fashion break. Based in California with stores on fashionable Rodeo Drive, Sister Max was not a designer but definitely an excellent business woman who recognized the creative talents of Pallavi. Soon a thriving business was launched with fabulous beaded garments under the label, “Pallavi for Sister Max”. The partnership lasted for seven years following which Pallavi struck out on her own in the US and Europe by appointing agents and taking part in prestigious fairs like Igedo in West Germany. Pallavi’s ‘Paraphernalia’ is now replaced by ‘Repertoire’ at Interplaza in Mumbai and Delhi. Recently she has branched into ethnic men’s wear that once again bears her distinct stamp with subtle tonal embroidery.
Pallavi’s treatment of a fabric is always delicate and feminine. Her colours are vibrant yet pastel. Her fabric choice is full bodies yet soft and flowing. Even her basic salwar-kameez silhouette exudes fantasy and is loose, layered and sensuous. From pristine white to pearly ivories she turns to vibrant flame or ruby red. Her use of embroidery is her forte as is very frequently visible in her collections for it does tend to be opulent without being garish. Her design philosophy firmly believes on cuts that swirl and tease but always flatter the woman, because she believes nothing transforms a woman into ‘a celebrity in herself’ as grace can.
Her clientele includes the crème de la crème of the society and the jet setting crowd of the society. Her creations find favour with Prime Ministers and Presidents of various countries. One of the first Indian designers to experiment and promote khadi, she has designed the bridal trousseau for the likes of Sheetal Mafatlal and has also designed for veteran actress Mumtaz.
She currently retails from Ogaan, Amethyst,, Marichika, Kimaya, Repertoire and Mogra.
