Preeti Modi, Founder, Designer and Asish Modi (Director, Uttara Group of Industries), Founder of Kiara, opens up about their early life, the inspiration behind becoming fashion entrepreneurs and the future of the brand
WHAT DOES FASHION MEAN TO YOU?
WHAT DOES FASHION MEAN TO YOU?Fashion to me is a tool of showcasing who you are, what you are.It’s a representation of one’s self. When I wear something nice, unique, beautiful, that’s when I’m more confident, stronger and more alive. To me, it’s a form of expression without words. I dress as per my personality.
PLEASE SHARE SOME DETAILS ABOUT YOUR EARLY LIFE. WHAT INFLUENCED YOU TO BECOME A FASHION ENTREPRENEUR?
Preeti Modi
I was born and brought up in India, Bangalore. I’ve completed my graduation in Finance and have a diploma in fashion design. Born into a business family, I was very influenced by the same career. And fashion was a passion. So I just followed my heart with a collaboration of both fields.
Asish Modi
I was born in Bangladesh and have done schooling in both Bangladesh and India; I have completed graduation in Informatics from Indiana, USA. Apart from being the co-owner of KIARA, I’m also an industrialist. Since childhood, my main interest has been business. Born into a reputed business family of Dhaka, I always knew this was my field. I’ve always been more attracted to technological change and try my best to implement the best of tech improvement to all my business including the fashion sector.
WHAT IS THE TARGET MARKET FOR KIARA? WHAT SETS IT APART FROM OTHER HIGH-END FASHION BRANDS IN THE COUNTRY?
We are a female based designer house. Our main target customers are women. KIARA offers a variety of product categories for all age and income segments. Mulmul is an affordable line for all ages. KIARA also has bridal couture, sharara sets, and a line of sarees at a wide range of prices. Recently, we have diversified to katan silk sarees which has been very well received by the customers. Besides, our Nagra Brand “JUTTIWALA” has a very dedicated fan base.
HOW HAS THE EXPERIENCE OF WORKING IN THE INDUSTRY BEEN FOR YOU?
The journey has been amazing! I am overwhelmed by the love and support we have received. The enthusiasm for our brand has made us more ambitious. We will forever remain grateful to our loyal customers, team members and karigars for helping us to reach where we are today.
HOW DO YOU ENVISION KIARA A DECADE FROM NOW?
We are striving hard to go international and want to establish KIARA as one of the most recognisable brands in the world. Therefore, our long-term goals are aligned with that vision. The pandemic has facilitated mass digital adaptation among the masses across the world and we intend to utilise this opportunity to enhance our presence.