Couturier, costume stylist, entrepreneur, and revivalist, Oorvi Desai, specialises in regal yet modern partywear with a strong focus on bridal design. Her bespoke cosmopolitan South-Asian collections overflow from within her store: a bustling boutique, based in Eastcote of North West London. A well-travelled and diligent fashionista, Oorvi’s journey first began with her flagship store in Malabar Hill in South Mumbai; India’s major stylish hub. There, she has been prior awarded Best Textile Designer in Mumbai by Bombay Dyeing & Mfg Company Limited, later personally styling many indie celebrities.
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Today, in her shop, you can spy traditional silks, playful chiffon and nets, and sleek satin: through the versatility of a variety of quality materials Oorvi is able to uniquely “capture the personality of clients,” dazzlingly accentuating certain moods through the careful combination of popping colours too. Whether it is a Pastel-pink or Mint-green glittery Lehenga, a Bottle-green Anarkali or even a bright Banana-yellow jumpsuit, the rising designer infuses the dramatic dynamism of Hollywood into any big lifestyle event.
“I love working with brides in particular,” she told us: “as they unequivocally want what’s best. I am also naturally very attentive to detail”. Indeed, this seems the perfect setting to create mutually tactile magic! “Actually, I’m very familiar with the fundamental characteristics of fabrics,” she continued, “having grown up around a dad and grandad who were very much into textiles which influenced me to study the subject. I know exactly the right material to suit any environment e.g., the beach, countryside etc.” However, Oorvi made sure to comment: “Confidence is the best style: it helps individuals to vibrantly carry the outfit. If you can really feel yourself, this manifests the perfect ensemble,” and, no doubt, the fun when you are out ongoingly! “There’s no one way to be trendy: it’s about what speaks to you and who you truly are.”
In this sense, Oorvi enjoys the one-on-one consultations offered to really connect to respective customers and discover the apt empowering design. “I cater to different characters. You could be bubbly and bold, or more reserved and prefer what’s simple and chic. I myself prefer a minimalist black dress with chunky gold jewellery. This, for me, highlights the emotive impact of just sheer self-assurance.” Indeed, Gucci’s ‘little black dress’ is iconic for good reason! Victoria Beckham, who popularised the look, projects a similarly cool inner poise. Going beyond the attractive aesthetics, Oorvi ultimately celebrates the timeless beauty of feminine soul.
Tell us more about your luxury boutique?
In my boutique, I have bespoke designer wear for both men and women. I have co-ordinated wedding outfits for bride and groom and generally at big weddings. However, I have a range of unique outfits for occasion wear and wedding /party guests which are semi-formal and minimalist. I offer a collection of my own and also do customised pieces. Additionally, I sell accessories such as bags, shoes and jewellery that match.
What would you say is your signature as a reputable niche designer?
My eye for detail. This means I will always put together complete, well-balanced looks.
What garments are your bestsellers?
I do a lot of Indo-fusion wear, and definitely wedding lehengas and benarasi silk sarees which are rich and traditionally hand embroided.
Would you describe your style as modern traditional?
The wedding wear definitely. But broadly speaking, the partywear is glam and fusion e.g., some have one shoulder strap, halter-neck, handkerchief tops, etc. Whilst chalking down an appointment over a call, I will always prepare design inspirations or a mood board presentation for the client after getting to know their vision to be prepped and ready to kickstart the day of the actual consultation.
What are your hopes for the future?
I’m very happy with the current business but would love to introduce fabrics into the store so that customers can get hands-on in the whole designing process – would love to give them the option of exploring different fabrics themselves in the styling process. It would help me make the garments very specific to someone’s taste and expression of identity too.
What really draws you to the world of design?
Having been a really good artist who is drawn to hues and visual warmth! I’ve microscopically studied the make-up of different garments and appreciate their unique quality. That marriage of creativity and tactility is what defines the culture of design.
What is a personal favourite piece of yours currently in your showroom?
There’s a go-to floor-length Anarkali, or Indian wedding gown, and love my casual sarees with modern blouses.
Finally, what have been some highlight moments?
The launch of my boutique with B4U music channel. I was able to showcase the catwalk opening segments in the National Asian Wedding Show: a total of 16 outfits. Also, for Asiana 2020, I walked the catwalk with my models, receiving incredible exposure. It was wonderful to have a few fashion shows for my growing brand.
W: //www.oorvidesai.co.uk/collections/wedding-guest-collection
