Tarun Tahiliani, Rahul Mishra, Gaurav Gupta, and other top couturiers describe who the ideal Bazaar woman is

She is bold. She is strong. She is fearless. She is the Bazaar woman. For Harper's Bazaar India's 15th anniversary, we picked the brains of India's revered fashion designers to know who the quintessential Bazaar woman is, according to them. From her characteristics and her style, to her influence on the contemporary fashion landscape. Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, Rahul Mishra, Gaurav Gupta, and other luminaries give us a peek into the modern-day Bazaar woman as they see it.

ABU JANI AND SANDEEP KHOSLA

“The ‘Bazaar woman’ is self-defined. She is her own creation. Born to live her own dream. A dream that brings purpose to her life, one that includes others in her embrace. For us, this kaftan is a quintessential ‘Bazaar woman’. It reflects nonchalance and an air of light living. Chic and decidedly easy, it can be dressed up for maximum glamour or dressed down to unleash casual bliss because the ‘Bazaar woman’ is always confident!” 

TARUN TAHILIANI

“She is unafraid to experiment and has the ability to have fun with her clothing. Whether it is the use of colour, interesting silhouettes, embroideries or simply the willingness to mix and match. Seen here is the ‘Bazaar woman’ in a colour block corset with an embroidered keyhole, and organza, ruffle-sleeved shirt which can be worn with shorts, long trousers, wide pants or in this case a long-pleated skirt. She’s having fun, being herself and authentically experiencing fashion.” 

RAHUL MISHRA

“The ‘Bazaar woman’ epitomises a contemporary woman who effortlessly blends global sophistication with her heritage. Unconcerned about perfectionism, she wears the spirit of entrepreneurship, favouring comfort and effortlessness. She is intellectual, confident and strongly individualistic. Her style is as eternal as it is dynamic. I think of her as an unafraid, unapologetic leader in all aspects of her life.”

ABRAHAM & THAKORE

“The ‘Bazaar woman’ balances intelligence with style, and elegance with discretion.”

GAURAV GUPTA

“The ‘Bazaar woman’ for me is bold, vibrant, and full of life, and this sculpted wave gown from our latest collection Aarohanam, perfectly captures that essence. With its vibrant hue and voluminous silhouette, it radiates confidence and sophistication, embodying the very spirit of the ‘Bazaar woman’.”

SHWETA KAPUR

The 431-88 ‘Bazaar woman’ is strong, resilient and powerful. Happy anniversary Bazaar! The future looks bright. Can’t wait to see what you do next

RIMZIM DADU

“The ‘Bazaar woman’, and the Rimzim Dadu muse is every modern woman who is looking to redefine traditions through her contemporary ideals and lens. A woman who is forging her own path while reflecting on her past and present to create her own narrative that allows her to embrace her own identity fearlessly.”

PAYAL SINGHAL

“To me, the ‘Bazaar woman’ is poised, sexy and fearless, and she knows it. She is understated and yet, makes a statement, her aesthetic is clean, detailed and classic. She’s timeless.” 

NEETA LULLA

“The ‘Bazaar woman’ embodies the essence of India with pride. At the heart of her wardrobe lies a commitment to sustainable and organic textiles, championing ethical fashion. She embraces the rich legacy of heritage weaves and crafts, reimagined in modern, luxurious, and comfortable styles. Her attire reflects a thoughtful blend of tradition and practicality, ensuring each piece is not only wearable but also exquisitely coordinated for contemporary elegance.”

TEAM PÉRO

“Happy 15th Bazaar India! Congratulations on a marvellous journey. A magazine made for the free-spirited that makes everyone around them seen and loved.”

JADE BY M&K

“The ‘Bazaar woman’ is someone who fits the description of a global citizen, simultaneously rooted in her Indian heritage, straddling both worlds with grace and ease! Instead of being trend driven, she is mindful and has extremely discerning taste and style. She has an authentic presence and is comfortable in her skin, choosing to celebrate herself every day.”

ARPITA MEHTA

“Congratulations on a fabulous 15! I remember my last shoot with Harper’s Bazaar for a beauty feature focusing on the rich diversity of Indian skin tones. It was pure joy to shoot it. 15 years of Harper’s Bazaar calls for a celebration and I am sending my best wishes to the entire team! Lots of love!”

SHANTNU & NIKHIL

“The ‘Bazaar woman’ seamlessly blends the essence of a globe-trotting, go-getter spirit—a woman much like the archetype of the S&N woman. Fierce and opinionated, yet deeply connected to Indian traditions and roots, she mirrors the ethos that we hold close to our hearts. This collaboration is a tribute to the dynamic, multifaceted women who effortlessly navigate the world while cherishing their heritage.”

This article was originally published in Harper's Bazaar India March 2024 print issue.

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