Home JOURNAL Globetrotter | Deepa Gurnani

Globetrotter | Deepa Gurnani

New York-based husband-and-wife design stars Deepa Gurnani and Jay Lakhani are the hippie-chic creators of Deepa Gurnani. Best known for their bohemian headbands, jewelry, and caftans, this India-inspired line has been spotted on A-listers such as Mary-Kate Olsen, Nicole Richie, Katie Holmes, and Katherine Heigl. We spoke with the effortlessly boho duo about their lives in Mumbai and where they find their inspiration.

New York-based husband-and-wife design stars Deepa Gurnani and Jay Lakhani are the hippie-chic creators of Deepa Gurnani. Best known for their bohemian headbands, jewelry, and caftans, this India-inspired line has been spotted on A-listers such as Mary-Kate Olsen, Nicole Richie, Katie Holmes, and Katherine Heigl. We spoke with the effortlessly boho duo about their lives in Mumbai and where they find their inspiration.

Describe Deepa Gurnani. Who is the Deepa Gurnani girl?

The Deepa Gurnani girl is the modern working woman who easily transforms her look from day to night with a DG piece.

What is a typical day like when you're in Mumbai?

Our day begins with a brisk walk, meditation, and a healthy breakfast. We are totally engaged in work during the day, developing new ideas and ensuring good quality products. At night, we see friends.

What are some of your go-to places to visit in India and why?
We love Jaipur because it is the most inspiring city in India! For a sanity check, we go to our Guru's home in Anandashram, Kerala. For a total mind, body, and soul detox, we go to Titoo Uncle's farmhouse in Nandgaon.

What are your favorite Mumbai restaurants? Late night spots?

Our favorite Mumbai restaurants are Yauatcha, Golden Dragon, and Vista (for a casual evening). Aer Lounge is a great late night spot.

Yauatcha: Ground floor, Raheja Tower, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East Mumbai, MH 400051, India +91 22 2644 8888. Golden Dragon: The Taj Mahal Hotel Mahakavi Bhushan Rd, Apollo Bandar, Mumbai, MH 400001, India. +91 22 2202 3366. Vista: Band Stand Apartments Mumbai, MH 400050, India. +91 22 6668 1234. Aer Lounge: 34th Floor, Four Seasons Hotel,114, Dr E Moses Marg, Worli, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400018 India. +91 22 2481 8000.

When you visit India, what do you stock up on to bring back to NYC?

We stock up on Forest Essentials (luxurious ayurveda), and Fab India Organic Foods that are hard to acquire here.

Forest Essentials: Shop No. 11, Foreshore Apts, Nr. Sea Princess Hotel, Juhu Tara Rd, Juhu, Mumbai, MH 400049, India. +91 22 6522 4480.

Describe your wardrobe. What are some of your most treasured items? What are some of your must have Mumbai staples?

I love the 1920's flowy silhouettes -- I live in my AllSaints trousers and John Varvatos blazers and jackets. Also, my Raghavendra Rathore bandhgala vests are a must-have for me!

Describe Deepa Gurnani in 3 words.

Classic: Everlasting. Our pieces never go out of style and can add glamour to any outfit.

Bold: Adding a DG piece will definitely get you noticed!

Creative: There is so much to choose from each season.

What is your favorite item that you have ever been given or purchased while you were traveling?

Jay's Longchamp Boxford. He carries his life in it. He bought it in Paris.

What are the three things besides your passport you never leave home without?

Jay would never leave home without his Kiehl's Creative cream wax and sunglasses. I would never leave home without my wedding ring and a handbag!

What are your globetrotter tips for living like a "local" in Mumbai?

She'll need oversized clothing to beat the heat and cash to indulge in some local shopping at Colaba Market, Nariyal Pani (tender coconut water) and Bhutta (corn on the cob) at Worli Sea Face!