Impossibly arresting. Those are the first words that come to mind when you see Nikhil Thampi’s NAIA. Styled maximally with elements of intrigue, boldness and a certain calm yet raw charm, this one is power-packed and a fitting celebration of the brand’s 15-year journey. Nikhil took us through the inspirations for the collection and what this means to him.
Completely bowled over! Congratulations on a stunning collection! This the best collection of your career, would you agree?
Honestly, NAIA is a true reflection of my evolution as a designer. After 15 years in this industry, it feels like a rebirth — a bold new chapter where we’re fusing tradition and modernity, creating a powerful ode to resilience and elegance. This is more than a collection; it’s an emotional journey and one of the most significant milestones in my career.
What was the starting point for NAIA?
NAIA was born from a deeply personal space. The idea took inspiration from a couple of weddings we did last season, where the brides wanted to wear lighter, more fluid outfits, so that’s how we came up with jewellery-integrated outfits, like kundan haathpool, gloved sleeve details, adaptable straps doubling as jewellery, where the drama isn’t eliminated, it’s rather elevated. I wanted to design couture that doesn’t scream but whispers luxury — pieces that are adaptable, modern, yet rooted in tradition.
How many hours did each piece take?
The ideation and creation process for NAIA was intense. Each piece went through countless hours of conceptualisation, pattern-making, and meticulous handwork. From the architectural silhouettes to the kundan-inspired beadwork, every detail was laboured over with love and intent. I would say each ensemble easily took over 50-100 hours, combining craftsmanship and emotional storytelling.
Can you tell us about the choice of palette?
The colour palette was conceived as a narrative arc, telling a story of transformation — of rising from purity to depth, from innocence to strength.
Ivory (Lune) represents new beginnings and purity, like dawn’s first light. Blush pink (Dawn) is a tender hue symbolising hope and renewal, soft like morning rays. Rusty red (Ember) is the fiery sun at its zenith, embodying passion and vitality. Deep cocoa (Terra) is an earthy, grounding shade representing resilience and nurturing strength, and Bold black is the colour of power, mystery, and inner strength, echoing the quiet confidence of twilight.
These colours, woven into six distinctive pieces each, create a rich tapestry of evolution, transitioning seamlessly from day to night and making each ensemble a chapter in the larger story.
Our favourite is the whites. Absolutely stunning! Do you have a favourite?
It’s hard to choose, but I do have a soft spot for the kundan bead blouse — it’s our hero piece. It feels almost like modern armour, delicate yet powerful. It encapsulates everything NAIA stands for — strength, grace, and a touch of dramatic elegance.
How have you styled the collection?
NAIA is styled with an emphasis on versatility. We designed multifunctional, head-to-toe outfits that eliminate the need for excessive accessories. You’ll see clever multi-way necklines, sculptural silhouettes with voluminous skirts, beaded pallus, gloved sleeves, and even a signature ear cuff that doubles as a strap. The idea was to create complete looks that are dramatic yet wearable, perfect for weddings or celebrations, and easy to travel with.
Love how you have woven in the edgy, cool, dramatic and bold, all at the same time. What is it that you wanted to say with NAIA?
With NAIA, I wanted to say that strength and softness can coexist. This collection is about rising, reimagining, and reclaiming one’s identity. It’s for every woman who believes in her power to evolve. Through architecture-inspired drapes and unexpected construction, I wanted to celebrate resilience, fluidity, and unapologetic individuality.
What have the last 15 years been like?
It’s been a rollercoaster — full of challenges, triumphs, and constant reinvention. From my first show at Lakmé Fashion Week to building a distinct brand language, every step has shaped me. This journey has taught me to embrace change and to trust my instincts, no matter how audacious the vision. NAIA is a culmination of everything I’ve learned so far, and a promise of what’s yet to come.
Would you call NAIA a comeback or a reset?
It’s a conscious renewal of my design philosophy and brand ethos. NAIA isn’t just a return; it’s a declaration of evolution. It’s about pushing boundaries, creating pieces that transcend time, and crafting couture that resonates with today’s bold, confident women.
What are your dreams for the label?
NAIA is just the beginning of a new chapter. I see the label expanding its global presence, collaborating with artisans and creators from around the world, and blending traditional techniques with modern design sensibilities. We’re also looking at expanding into different product categories eventually.
I want to continue telling stories of resilience and grace, whether it’s through couture that’s heirloom-worthy or through capsule collections that surprise and delight. NAIA isn’t the finale — it’s the prologue to an even more exciting journey, one that I hope will resonate not just in India, but on the global stage.