Masumi Mewawalla
Hello, I am Masumi Mewawalla, Founder, CEO, and Creative Head of Pink Peacock Couture, Emblaze, and MasuRaj Garments.
I started my career as a TV actress, a dancer, and a caterer and I am now a full-time Fashion entrepreneur with a Master’s in Management degree.
Growing up from being a child actress, I thought acting would be my mainstream career but eventually, I stepped into dancing as a choreographer, after which I started my catering company. These were my passions and my skills but I could not visualize them being my career or I being able to make it big there. Hence, after I decided to try to make a saree on my parents’ anniversary; and getting confidence in the process - and also seeing my love for fashion, I decided to pursue it as my career. Today, when I am mentoring at Fashion colleges, the students make me realize that it was the right decision, and I can inspire more and more enthusiasts.
Companies: Pink Peacock Couture, Emblaze, MasuRaj Garments
Location: Mumbai, India
Operating since: 2014, 2016, and 2017 respectively
Websites: pinkpeacockcouture.com, emblaze.in, masurajgarments.com
Instagram: @pinkpeacocokcouture, @emblaze_mb
Tell us all about your companies. What services and product(s) do you offer?
Pink Peacock Couture - Pink Peacock Couture is one of India’s premier bridal couture and luxury prêt line for men and women. Founded in 2014, the label has made its mark on Indian and international runways alike. Known for its ingenious blend of traditional embroidery with contemporary silhouettes, Pink Peacock Couture has distinguished itself as one of the most coveted designer labels for the Indian crème de la crème.
The label employs the most skilled karigars at our in-house production unit, specializing in the most exquisite embroidery techniques from different parts of India; From opulent silks to delicate ruffled nets, rich fabrics are handpicked and brought to life with the most intricate handwork. While the women’s collections are crafted to bring out a fairytale-like quality, the men’s range of festive wear is royal and awe-inspiring. The signature use of rose gold is a distinguishing asset for the label, and I am one of the first Indian designers to introduce this hue on the bridal runway. Featuring an array of Indian and Western cuts, the label spells out refined luxury with some of the most sought-after couture and prêt designs for the modern bride and groom.
Emblaze Clothing Pvt Ltd. - Emblaze is an urban prêt clothing line for men and women that blends modern quirk with luxe elegance. Founded in 2016, the brand is synonymous with minimalistic bravado. With an inventive range of casual, semi-formal, and formal wear for men and women, we believe in the strength of simplicity to make a powerful statement. Emulating our brand philosophy of minimalism and staying grounded, the designs feature monotone palettes, sharp silhouettes and intelligent colour blocking techniques. From classy to disruptive, subtle to brazen, uber-cool to sizzling hot - our eclectic collections are designed to cater to an array of age groups, attitudes and style sensibilities.
Keeping in mind the urban lifestyle, versatility is at the very core of our designs, with apparel that can be worn from the AM to PM. While exploring the newest trends in the fashion industry, we focus on wearability and practicality. The result is an authentic, easy-to-wear and effortlessly chic outfit. Every outfit reflects our signature design language, giving it a characteristic ‘Emblaze’ touch.
Masuraj Garments Pvt Ltd - Masuraj Garments Private Limited, kicked off in the year 2017 and has been growing ever since then as a manufacturer of ladies’ housekeeping uniforms, women’s skirts, and men’s waistcoats. Our products come with an extended life along with an unmatched quality that distinguishes us from our competitors in the market. Our never-ending commitment towards a qualitative approach has earned us a rich client base in the testimony of our market standing.
Would you say your personal & professional experiences have helped you to run your companies?
I think not having a background and formal education in fashion was a challenge for me and it was a difficult journey. Starting from acting and ending up in fashion wasn't an easy choice, but living the day as it comes and learning life experiences every day (and practically) helped me the most.
What is the biggest personal / professional obstacle you've had to overcome?
Professionally, my facility had a burn down after three years of it being in functionality and I had to restart.
Personally, I battled depression and anxiety issues over a period of time.
What's your definition of success? Do you consider yourself a success? If not, when will you?
Success is subjective. I would say success is attained at every step we take as we grow from our previous moment. Growing from the As, I always say it’s okay to pause never to stop. [Being able to] reboot and refresh itself is success.
Have the women around you helped you to rise? How?
Absolutely. Not just my mother, but every woman in my life - from my team, teachers, grandparents, friends, and everyone I have met my way throughout, they have always been living in empowering each other.
What are some of your future plans? Are you working on anything else right now?
Yes, I do have three new ventures in the pipeline - in cosmetics, in lingerie, and in handloom sarees.
What advice would you give to a woman starting out in the fashion industry or starting her own company/organization?
Fashion isn't just a skill, and it can be made into a full-fledged career! Being a designer cannot be considered as "drawing" but also making ensembles and being able to sell them under your label.
Describe yourself in ONE word. Survivor
Complete this sentence: "To be a girl or woman today is..." a blessing, should be given equal importance, and be treated with highest respect! Work-life balance (i.e. work with personal life) can be done by every woman - all that is needed is the right push and support from loved ones and society!
If you enjoyed reading about Masumi Mewawalla, you can follow her on LinkedIn, Instagram, and also through her website.