Behind the Label | Bungalow 8

Founded by Maithili Ahluwalia in 2003, Bungalow 8 has been regarded as a retail enigma. The brand, named for the address at which Maithili grew up, is suited for the individualist. The Bungalow 8 philosophy is to create products that combine opposites in an effortless harmony. From the global product selection to the lived-in atmosphere of their retail stores, there is no wonder why Bungalow 8 has been regarded so highly in India?s fashion world.

 

Founded by Maithili Ahluwalia in 2003, Bungalow 8 has been regarded as a retail enigma. The brand, named for the address at which Maithili grew up, is suited for the individualist. The Bungalow 8 philosophy is to create products that combine opposites in an effortless harmony. They have the confidence to do what is unexpected, mixing vintage with modern, traditional craft with post-modern design and Indian-ness with global-ness.

 

 

 

 

By ?Indian-ness,? they do not mean ?kitschy? and ?kurti.? In fact, they deliberately strive to make products that transcend that theme. Instead, the Bungalow 8 products are mature and developed expressions of Indian culture, offering a refined and renewed version of products people have come to perceive as traditionally Indian. They are unembellished yet detailed, couture yet craft, and reasonable yet quality conscious. From the global product selection to the lived-in atmosphere of their retail stores, there is no wonder why Bungalow 8 has been regarded so highly in India?s fashion world.

 

 

 

 

 

How would you describe the overall style of the collection?

Bungalow 8 has always been about blending an Indian and Global sensibility to create designs rooted in India but with an international appeal that make them stand out in Paris as much as they do in Mumbai.

 

 

 

 

 

 

What inspired you to start your own collection in addition to running and buying for your own store?

 

 

Bungalow 8 has always been about unique and unconventional finds that blend an Indian and Global sensibility - I didnt feel that this aesthetic was adequately represented in the fashion arena.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Where do you find inspiration for your collections? 

 

 

Everywhere - my eyes are always peeled.

 

 

 

What do you find the most inspiring destination in the world?

 

 

I would have to say India because it is an infinite journey of discovery if you are willing to be completely open. You need several life times to experience it all, that's why we believe in reincarnation.

 

 

 

 

 

How would you describe your own personal style and how is it reflected in your new collection? 

 

 

I always find these questions difficult to answer because I never think too much about style - but I hope it can be described as effortless, fearless and individualistic. I believe strongly in the imperfection of perfection.

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is one of the best shopping finds you?ve had in your travels?

 

 

My recent ikat kaftan from kazakhastan as I had a very prominent French lady follow me from the airport to the hotel to buy it off me.