Work, sleep, swim, play—we have clothes for all of it, but how many of our pieces tell a story? Garments designed with intention and artistry are more than just something we wear; they’re reflections of their makers, and of the people and places who inspired them. They add a depth to our wardrobes that we’ll never be able to find in a piece of fast fashion. And when we choose a piece that speaks to us, we, in turn, get to share a bit of our personalities with the world. So if, like me, you want to add a little life into your closet, look no further than Maison Qala.
Founded in 2023, Maison Qala is the brainchild of Aakriti and Mehek, a pair of friends who met while in high school and quickly became inseparable. After learning to work as a team at university and spending three years at GAP and M&S, Aakriti moved to France to pursue an MBA in luxury brand management, while Mehek stayed in Delhi and worked to gain industry experience.
Several more changes in career and location followed, including a move to the U.S. and a position at Bloomingdale’s for Aakriti, and a move to New Zealand and a position at H&M AUNZ for Mehek. The two remained fast friends through each shift, sharing every aspect of their lives with each other, no matter how far apart they were.
Then, 20 years after they first met, the pair decided to make yet another change, one based on Aakriti’s vision of a brand of their own. And so, Maison Qala was born.
It’s a company that has stuck true to its purpose since its inception: to revive and reimagine heritage craftsmanship through contemporary, elegant pieces. Every item they produce starts with artisan-made watercolor paintings and sketches, which are then refined into their final form through digital edits and touch-ups. The resulting prints, each inspired by South Asian patterns and techniques, are turned into eye-catching collections perfect for enhancing their wearers’ unique styles.
With most of their pieces arranged into sets that can be purchased together or separately, finding—or building—the right outfit(s) has never been easier. My personal favorite piece? The skirt from the company’s The Pleated Verse set. Crafted from an olive-backed version of their Anasi print, it’s a colorful, festive piece that pairs just as well with a tank top as it does a nice blouse. Best of all, the Habutai silk outer layer and cotton mul lining are machine washable, making it easy to clean (and to wear without stress).
Other prints include everything from bird, fruit and dragonfly motifs to Katha-inspired florals and geometrics. Each is washed in different shades depending on the seasonal collection, and sewn into garments including skirts, pants, dresses, blouses, jackets and jumpsuits. No matter which you choose, every piece is a riot of color and personality just waiting to brighten up your everyday.
Through timeless, traditional craftsmanship; contemporary cuts; and sustainable innovation, Aakriti and Mehek have brought past and present to bear in a brand that’s as authentic as it is elevated. Each piece is a versatile work of art, ready to be worn for a day out with friends, a night on the town, or even just a dressed-up trip to the grocery store. Sound like you? Head on over to Maison Qala’s website HERE, and immerse yourself in styles that won’t let you look away.
