In the heart of Noida, Delhi NCR, designer Kehkashan Khan has created a fashion brand that effortlessly blends Indian heritage with modern aesthetics . Her brand, Kehkashan Kaleidos , reflects the rich cultural tapestry of India, where tradition meets innovation to produce garments that are both timeless and contemporary. The name “Kehkashan Kaleidos,” meaning "Universe of Beautiful Forms," perfectly encapsulates the brand’s mission—to create a harmonious fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern design.
Each piece tells a story, celebrating the vibrant colours and intricate patterns that define India’s cultural landscape. In conversation with Kehkashan Khan Q: Hello, Kehkashan! Congratulations on launching Kehkashan Kaleidos. What inspired you to start this brand? Kehkashan (K): Thank you! The inspiration came from the kaleidoscope of colours, patterns, and traditions that are so integral to India.
I’ve always been fascinated by how these elements can tell a story, and I wanted to create a brand that celebrates our rich cultural heritage while adapting it to modern aesthetics. Fashion, for me, is more than just clothing—it’s a way to express identity and culture. Q: The name of your brand is quite unique.
What’s the story behind it? K: The name “Kehkashan Kaleidos” was chosen carefully to encapsulate the essence of what the brand stands for. “Kehkashan” means “universe” in Urdu, symbolising the vast and diverse inspirations that influence our designs. “Kaleidos” comes from the Greek word for “beautiful forms,” representing the intricate designs and patterns we use.
Together, the name signifies the brand’s mission to create beauty through the fusion of traditional and contemporary elements . Q: Your designs are known for their intricate details and vibrant colours. Can you describe your creative process? K: My creative process is deeply rooted in traditional Indian crafts like block printing, embroidery, and weaving.
I start with these traditional techniques and then reimagine them in a modern context. For instance, our bridal lehengas often feature intricate mirror work, while our ghararas and shararas are adorned with delicate zari and zardozi embroidery. We also use fine Resham and sequins to add a touch of modern flair to these classic pieces.
Each garment is designed to be a blend of old and new, honouring our heritage while making it relevant for today’s fashion-conscious clientele. Q: How do you select the materials and artisans you work with? K: Selecting the right materials and artisans is a crucial part of the process. I work closely with local weavers and craftsmen who have honed their skills over generations.
We use high-quality fabrics like vibrant silks, earthy linens, smooth silks, soft cottons, and shimmering organzas to create garments that not only look beautiful but also feel luxurious. I believe that the authenticity of our materials and the skill of our artisans are what make our designs truly special. Q: You mentioned that women empowerment is a key focus for you.
How does this influence your work? K: Empowering women is at the core of Kehkashan Kaleidos. I’m passionate about using fashion as a tool to uplift women, not just by making them feel confident in what they wear, but also by providing opportunities for them to learn and grow. I’m collaborating with a university to offer fashion design classes specifically for young women, focusing on the “Vocal for Local” initiative.
This program aims to develop local talent and contribute to the economic empowerment of women, helping them to build careers in fashion and contribute to India’s growth. Q: What role does sustainability play in your brand? K: Sustainability is very important to us. We believe in creating pieces that are not just beautiful but also ethical.
This means using eco-friendly materials, working with local artisans, and ensuring that our production processes have minimal environmental impact. We’re committed to promoting slow fashion, where each piece is made with care and meant to last for years. Q: What sets Kehkashan Kaleidos apart from other fashion brands? K: What really sets Kehkashan Kaleidos apart is our commitment to authenticity, elegance, and innovation.
We take pride in our use of high-quality fabrics like vibrant silks, earthy linens, soft cotton, and shimmering organzas. Each piece is crafted with a deep understanding of traditional techniques and a modern design sensibility. We don’t just follow trends; we create timeless pieces that tell a story.
Every ensemble is a celebration of life’s myriad shades, designed to be both beautiful and meaningful. https://www.instagram.
com/reel/C9h2mdDvtSg/?igsh=NTh3aGRidnA0MG44 Q: How do you see the role of fashion in today’s society? K: Fashion has a powerful role in society as a form of self-expression and cultural identity. It’s a way to communicate who we are and where we come from. In today’s world, where cultures are blending and evolving, fashion can be a bridge between the traditional and the modern.
It’s also a tool for empowerment, particularly for women, allowing them to express themselves confidently and authentically. Q: You’ve talked about taking your brand global. What is your vision for Kehkashan Kaleidos in the future? K: My vision for Kehkashan Kaleidos is to showcase Indian talent and craftsmanship on a global stage.
I believe that our heritage and modernity can blend beautifully, and I want to share that with the world. The brand’s tagline, “Crafting Dreams One Stitch at a Time,” reflects our dedication to creating pieces that are not just garments but works of art. Each creation is a dream realised, a piece of wearable art that embodies the essence of Indian culture.
I’m excited to see where this journey takes us as we continue to innovate and grow, bridging cultures and connecting people through fashion. Q: What’s next for Kehkashan Kaleidos? Any upcoming projects or collaborations? K: We have some exciting projects in the pipeline. We’re working on expanding our collection to include more diverse designs that cater to different cultures and regions.
We’re also looking at potential collaborations with international designers to bring a fresh perspective to our work. Kehkashan Kaleidos is more than just a fashion brand; it’s a platform that celebrates India’s rich cultural heritage and reimagines it for the modern world. Through her work, Kehkashan Khan is preserving traditional crafts while pushing the boundaries of contemporary design.
The brand’s focus on women empowerment, commitment to authenticity, and vision for global reach make it a unique and inspiring force in the fashion industry. As Kehkashan Kaleidos continues to grow, it remains a testament to the power of fashion to tell stories, empower individuals, and connect cultures. For more information, you can visit Kehkashan Kaleidos’s Instagram page .
Disclaimer - The above content is non-editorial, and TIL hereby disclaims any and all warranties, expressed or implied, relating to it and does not guarantee, vouch for or necessarily endorse any of the content..
