Shivani Jai Interview
"Even with western outfits, I always add an Indian element because it feels personal to me."
Q. Before your current creative identity, what experiences shaped your confidence and personal voice?
Before my current creative identity, I was always drawn to creativity in every form — from choir and classical dance to academics, where I was definitely an overachiever.
A huge part of my confidence and personal style also comes from my South Indian roots; I’m half Tamil and half Malayali, and maximalism has always been deeply rooted in our culture. Even today, if I don’t incorporate a touch of Indian influence into what I wear or create, it doesn’t feel fully like me. Fashion became my strongest form of self-expression and confidence.
Q. What drew you to maximalist fashion, and how did you find the confidence to embrace it fully?
My love for maximalist fashion was heavily inspired by classical dance and South Indian culture — the jewellery, textures, and bold styling I grew up around. Being Tamil and Malayali naturally shaped the way I express myself through fashion. Even with western outfits, I always add an Indian element because it feels personal to me, not trend-driven. The confidence came from fully embracing what felt authentic to me.
Q. How did your experience with Vogue influence your journey and perspective as a creator?
Being featured by Vogue was a huge turning point for me. I never expected it, especially knowing how many creators they work with, so seeing my post featured felt surreal. It opened a lot of doors creatively and made me feel truly seen for my love of jewellery and maximalist fashion. It gave me even more confidence to lean fully into my creative identity.
Q. How do you balance bold visual storytelling with staying authentic to yourself?
I think balance is important because maximalism isn’t just about layering everything together — every piece should tell a story. Some things, like my custom Shivani chain, cuffs, waist chains, and gold jewellery, are a constant part of my styling.
Recently, I’ve also been obsessed with stacking chunky bangles with glass bangles to mix different textures and details. I love experimenting with silhouettes and layering while still keeping it authentic to my personal style.
Q. What helps you stay grounded and keep creating on days when motivation or confidence dips?
Creating has always been tied to my sense of identity, so inspiration usually comes naturally through the people and things around me. Even stepping out or shopping can spark ideas for me. I also surround myself with creative people who inspire me daily, and that keeps me motivated. At the same time, I’ve learned that taking breaks is equally important because creativity flows differently for everyone.
Bio
Shivani Jai -21-year-old full-time creative director and fashion content creator, also a B.Des UX/ Ul student based in Bengaluru. Rooted in her Tamil and Malayali heritage, her work is known for blending maximalist fashion, jewellery, and bold visual storytelling with a strong sense of individuality.
Through styling and content, she explores fashion as a form of identity and self-expression, often mixing traditional Indian elements with contemporary silhouettes in a way that feels personal, expressive, and visually distinct.
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Interviewed By Sabhyata
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