A Journey of Fashion Excellence

Archana Kochhar recently celebrated a significant achievement by styling over a hundred contestants for the renowned Miss World event held in May. This milestone marks the pinnacle of her nearly three-decade-long journey in the fashion industry.

Her story began in her teenage years when she organized her first trunk show, driven by a dream to create stunning lehenga cholis. Today, that dream has transformed into a legacy characterized by craftsmanship, empowerment, and international acclaim. As young women from across the globe donned her creations while vying for the Miss World crown, Kochhar's aspirations came full circle, evolving from a budding designer in Mumbai to a formidable force in global fashion. Here’s an exclusive conversation with Archana about her fashion journey...

Creating Magic on the World Stage

Participating in Miss World 2025 in Telangana was both exhilarating and humbling for Kochhar. Collaborating with local master weavers, she sourced traditional silk and pearls, crafting designs that embodied ethnic charm while ensuring comfort. Many contestants wore sarees or lehengas for the first time, so it was crucial to create pieces that were easy to wear. The result was a stunning fusion that resonated well with the participants.

Collaborating with Celebrities

Understanding a celebrity's unique style and merging it with her design vision is always thrilling for Kochhar. The collaborative nature of this process enhances its beauty, as each celebrity brings their own flair. She expressed her joy in working with stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Malaika Arora.

Summer Fashion Tips

For the summer season, Kochhar suggests opting for breathable materials such as mulmul, cotton-silk blends, and linen. Flowy silhouettes and stitched saris offer both comfort and style. This season's color palette features fresh pastels alongside vibrant hues, and she encourages adding bold accessories for a striking look.

Embracing All Sizes

The fashion industry has often celebrated a narrow definition of beauty, but Kochhar believes that fashion should empower everyone. She emphasizes that real women come in diverse shapes and sizes, and her designs reflect this inclusivity. Being part of the body positivity movement has been a rewarding experience for her, as she aims to break stereotypes and promote individuality.

A Passion for Indian Textiles

Kochhar has a profound appreciation for Indian textiles and traditional handlooms, particularly rich silk fabrics. Her favorite colors include ivory and gold, which she considers timeless and regal. She enjoys experimenting with drapes and structured silhouettes that harmoniously blend traditional and contemporary styles.

Inspired by Culture and Travel

Travel and cultural exploration significantly influence Kochhar's design philosophy. She finds joy in discovering various regions of India and beyond. Additionally, she cherishes moments spent with family, reading, and supporting initiatives that empower women and artisans in rural areas.

Fashion Aspirations for Chandigarh

Kochhar views Chandigarh as a beautiful fusion of culture, modernity, and sophistication. The women in this city possess a unique style that is both graceful and adventurous. She expresses a desire to showcase more of her collections in Chandigarh and collaborate with its vibrant fashion community.