Fashion’s It-girl Tania Shroff talks about female friendships and her hopes for the new year

One cannot prepare to interview Tania Shroff without scrolling through her Instagram account. No wonder she has over 410K followers—Shroff’s feed is indeed a visual treat, showcasing a mix of exotic destinations, runway-ready ensembles, and adventures with her globetrotting dog, Bane. More than just another influencer, Shroff has established herself as a Gen-Z style icon. Her audience is drawn to her distinctive sense of style and trendsetting looks, which consistently turn heads.

The Mumbai-based style icon and social media influencer is known for her versatility—be it couture gowns, luxury handbags or edgy streetwear. But if there is one thing that Shroff never shies away from, it is experimenting with trends but with her own twist to it. Shroff’s influence extends beyond her followers. She champions Indian luxury fashion, both on and off the runway, and is a muse for designers. Shroff represents a new generation of women who are bold, independent, and unafraid to express themselves. Her commitment to authenticity, combined with her deep understanding of fashion and design, makes her an icon for the modern Indian woman—one who embraces tradition but is unafraid to experiment.

Beyond her role as a fashion enthusiast, it’s evident that travel holds a special place in her life. Her Instagram bio links to her YouTube channel, where she has three videos—each capturing a piece of her travels to Dubai, Everest, and Barcelona. In an exclusive interview, Shroff talks to us about her life that goes beyond the headlines. Here’s more from our candid conversation.

 

Harper’s Bazaar: Let’s start from the beginning—how were you as a child? Were you more studious or sporty in school?

Tania Shroff: As a kid, I enjoyed going to school and loved my friends. I can’t really say I was the most studious or sporty, but I definitely leaned onto the artsy side, if anything! Any class that allowed me to be creative was the class for me.

HB: What did you study at university? Was fashion always something you wanted to pursue?

TS:  I studied public relations and creative direction at London College of Fashion. Growing up, I had phases of what I wanted to be. I started off wanting to be a police officer—the ones who ride horses. That quickly fizzled out and I thought I wanted to work/run a magazine. I got the opportunity to intern at a big publication and absolutely hated it. However, I loved the editorial and curation aspect of the magazine, which I started testing with my Instagram. That’s when I really realised that I do actually love playing around with fashion, but was unsure where I would fit in. Lucky for me, I had the opportunity to do a foundation course that really helped me narrow down and decide I’m not interested in being a designer or really into the business side of fashion but more into fashion media. 

HB: Can you share your first memory of dressing up and feeling fashionable? What was your style back then?

TS: I went to a school with no uniforms, which really allowed me to express myself through fashion. While we had a dress code, I would love the first week of school when I got to wear all the fun pieces I bought that summer and experiment with my looks.

HB: Who is your fashion icon, and who do you admire the most?

TS: I always say my fashion icon is Bianca Jagger. She’s super edgy, yet feminine. I wouldn’t be able to say who I admire the ‘most’, but I do look up to a lot of women for fashion inspiration.

HB: How important do you think female friendships are?

TS: Immensely important! Not only for emotional support but the experiences you share with each other. It’s a safe space; an understanding that doesn’t have to be explained and is effortlessly fun! Having a bond with a girlfriend is truly one of the best feelings. I just love being a girl! 

HB: I noticed you have some pictures with horses on Instagram. Do you love horse riding? How did you get into it?

TS: I was four when I got on a horse for the first time and have loved them ever since! I used to go to Mahalakshmi Race Course before and after school to ride; it was a true passion of mine. It’s become more of a hobby now, but it will always be something I care about. 

HB: This is your first cover shoot with Harper’s Bazaar India! How does it feel to be a cover girl? Were you excited? How was your shoot experience?

TS: I couldn’t sleep the night before the shoot—I was so excited. I haven’t seen the cover yet so it’s not fully hit me, but thrilled and proud to say the least! 

HB: When I looked you up online, there’s a lot about your dating life. How do you feel about that kind of attention, and how do you deal with negativity?

TS:  Everyone deals with negativity online, but I always tell myself that those accounts don’t know me. I feel like my Instagram and online presence is a version of me, but not all of me. It’s my brand rather than me! My YouTube is more of me, but again I enjoy vlogging experiences about my actual life. I don’t really pay much attention or waste time feeling bad because I don’t want to let people, who don’t know me, to get in my head.

HB: How does 2025 look for you? Is there anything exciting coming up? What's something you’re really proud of this year? 

TS: I am really proud of my Harper’s Bazaar cover!! I’m also very excited to travel—both personally and for work. The next year is going to be all about embracing change, accepting growth, and exploring new possibilities, both personally and professionally!

Editor: Rasna Bhasin (@rasnabhasin)
Digital Editor: Sonal Ved (@sonalved)
Photographer: Nishanth Radhakrishnan (@nishanth.radhakrishnan)
Creative Stylist: Gopalika Virmani (@gopalikavirmani)
Cover Design: Mandeep Khokhar (@mandy_khokhar19)
Editorial Coordinator: Shalini Kanojia (@shalinikanojia)
Hair Artist: Mitesh Rajani (@miteshrajani)
Make-up Artist: Riddhima Sharma (@makeupbyriddhima)
Hair Artist Assistant: Rishita Hindocha (@rishita.hindocha)
Styling Assistant: Riza Rizvi (@rizarizvi_official)
Location Courtesy: Akara Modern Art Gallery (@Akaraart)

Tania is wearing, Sam shirt and Pil skirt by URA (@wear.ura); Panthère de Cartier necklace, Clash De Cartier necklace and ring, watch and ring, all Cartier (@cartier)

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