Saloni Jain, a 19-year-old student at Inifd International Institute Of Fashion Design Himayatnagar, is making waves in the fashion world. The second-year student has been selected as one of the top 10 designers in India, and the only one from South India, to showcase her collection at the prestigious London Fashion Scout. Her collection, a vibrant blend of Mughal and Nizam era influences with a modern twist, earned her a spot on this international platform.
Saloni’s passion for design began with sketching and doodling, which eventually led her to fashion illustration and a burgeoning career in the industry. She describes herself as a self-taught designer, highlighting her natural talent and dedication to her craft. Her hard work and innovative designs caught the attention of the London Fashion Scout judges, securing her a place amongst the country’s top emerging talents.
The young designer’s collection, titled “SOZ,” meaning passion, draws inspiration from the rich history and architectural splendor of Hyderabad. Saloni’s designs incorporate elements from iconic landmarks such as the Falaknuma Palace and Chowmohalla Palace, translating their grandeur into contemporary garments. She uses a palette of beige, blush pink, and shades of grey on luxurious fabrics like tweed, taffeta silk, polyelastene, satin, crepe silk, tabby silk, and organza. To achieve the desired quality and variety, Saloni sourced fabrics from across India, demonstrating her commitment to bringing her vision to life.
The intricate zardozi embroidery and dome-shaped designs, interwoven with western silhouettes, showcase Saloni’s unique design aesthetic. Her collection represents a harmonious fusion of traditional Indian craftsmanship and modern fashion sensibilities. This innovative approach sets her apart and has garnered recognition on an international level.
Saloni’s journey has been fueled by her passion for design and the unwavering support of her parents. They have played a crucial role in overcoming financial challenges and encouraging her to pursue her dreams. Her upcoming debut at London Fashion Scout marks a significant milestone in her career, paving the way for her to establish her own brand and showcase Indian culture on the global stage. Saloni draws inspiration from renowned designers such as Tarun Tahiliani, Shantanu and Nikhil, Giorgio Armani, and Karl Lagerfeld, further fueling her ambition to leave a lasting impact on the fashion industry. She aims to create a brand that not only reflects her unique design philosophy but also celebrates the richness and diversity of Indian heritage.
