Getting Candid With Kalyani

Fashion is an indelible part of the world we live in. It takes many forms and knows many names, and one of those is undeniably Kalyani Chawla. An entrepreneur and fashion insider, she stands as a true expert in the industry, with an impressive resume built over just two decades

On a summer day in London, between her appearances for Wimbledon and dinner at Saatchi Yates Gallery, team MISHO had the pleasure of catching up with the fashion savant herself.

Who is your ultimate style inspiration?

Both my grandmothers. My Dadi took her middle name Rani very seriously. [She] had a permanent tailor at home who made the latest outfits from cut outs of pages from Vogue. [She] also bought me a string bikini from a "very cute Italian man" on her many travels and taught me to dress immaculately even if lounging at home!

And my Nani, the quintessential Bengali woman with her Marlene Dietrich hairstyle [and] a red sindoor in a neat line - inspired me with traditionalism and love of saris.

What are your favourite places in London?

East London, especially Shoreditch where my daughter Tahira lives, is definitely the coolest area. I feel like I am on a movie set everytime! I also love Islington and Nottinghill for [their] restaurants and pubs - the latter for its boutiques.

What is your go to jewellery look?

I love chunky statement pieces. I have been collecting costume jewellery for years. Accessories play a huge part in my personal style .

Favourite MISHO piece at the moment?

MISHO came out with the breastplate way before a lot of designers did. It's dramatic and definitely a statement [with] little else required! My absolute favourite.

What’s something your daughter loves to ‘borrow’ from your wardrobe?

Tahira's style is very different from mine and she loves vintage (which my collection is certainly for her!). She is eclectic and that's something we have in common. Dior jackets and Aliia dresses especially.

Where is your ultimate holiday destination?

I am a beach bum, so anywhere really. But, on holidays I like to go out at night all dressed up - so the south of France or the Amalfi Coast is also a lot of fun with the best food and coolest people around.

What is something you love about having a silverware brand?

I get to manufacture all the things I love! From a caviar bowl to the coolest bar set and a whole product line for a table setting, as I love entertaining. I pretty much have it all! It's completely handmade and crafted in my factory. It's always such a thrill to see the finished product from a flat sheet of metal!