Pooja Baheti - Success In Itself Is An Ever Evolving Term For Me (Founder Of Poppi From India)

With a desire to bridge the parallel universe of a homegrown western wear and the needs of modern Indian women, Pooja Baheti founded Poppi. Poppi is a celebration of a woman’s heritage while giving it a twist of flirty, chic, and feminine semblance. The brand’s purpose is wear-ability, comfort, and design aesthetics. It's a conscious effort to curate each collection, in which everyone feels confident in each design, and it fits like a second skin.

 

1. Tell us about your background and journey?

 

I had been contemplating the idea of launching Poppi for more than a year before we actually launched, but something or the other always took precedence. During my discussions with my family and friends, I used to always tell them about how, while there isn't a lack of clothing brands for women, when it comes to purchasing from a super stylish western wear brand, it was always limited to some international brand. It was evident – there is a gap in this industry. 

From focusing on creating fair working conditions for our labour to committing to a complete green business model eventually, to favouring eco-friendly packaging, Poppi as a business model is about sustainability & the celebration of slow fashion. Please find more detail in the founder profile. 

2. What led you to start your page on Instagram?

 

Instagram is the place to be, for any old or new/upcoming business. It was a no-brainier for us to start an Instagram page for our clothing line. Today, that’s the number 1 way for us to create campaigns, get sales, new customers & honest feedback for our products.

3. Do you think that there will be a new style statement or fashion obsession with the new normal? If so, what would be your choice and why?

 

With the new normal, everyone leaned towards comfortable clothing like lounge wear & athleisure wear. They wanted comfortable pieces that looked good. With that we saw some great spins on knitwear as well - like stylish but comfy sweatshirts or joggers. So I would say Knitwear is getting bigger than ever and it’s here to stay.

4. What is your idea of success or your mantra in life?

 

Success in itself is an ever evolving term for me. At first, I considered it a success to launch my business, now success would mean taking it to the next level and growing my business.

 

Over all, the idea of success is not giving up and doing whatever it takes to reach my goals.

 

Persistence, determination and hard work paves the way for me but I think there can never be a set mantra for success.

Failure is the biggest teacher for me. It also makes success much sweeter.

5. Who is your favourite fashion blogger and why?

 

I love Leonie Hanne & Irina. Their aesthetics are always on point and their reels are super fun to watch!

6. Do you have any tips for people who want to join this field?

 

Rejections and failures are not final or fatal. Persistence and some patience will definitely help you carve your niche in this industry.

7. Which is your favourite book and why?

 

 Definitely cannot choose one. I have too many favourites. Recently I read the book IT by Jamie Kern Lima and I absolutely loved it. Her personal journey and first hand account of establishing a beauty empire was super inspiring.

 

Interviewed by - Abilasha Raikar