Gucci’s centennial is an iconic moment that brings together nostalgic appreciation for the rich heritage and the joy of a new beginning. It’s only fitting then that this celebratory moment be catalysed by the spirit of inspiration from a unique mix of women role models—all high achievers in their own right. They own their identity; fashion is purely a progression of that expression, which explains why Gucci is their go-to. Path breaking, passionate, bold—and that’s just where the overlap begins. Excerpts from Roohi ahead.
With one foot planted firmly in the corporate space and the other in art and fashion, Roohi Jaikishan has always enjoyed the best of both worlds. She approached the challenge of working from home, wrought by the pandemic, head on, managing to launch 15 new products and a whole new range of herbs and spices at her FMCG company RRO. The tastemaker reveals what keeps her going even through challenging times.
ELLE: What does fashion mean to you? How would you define your personal style?
Roohi Jaikishan (RJ): This difficult time has taught us to pursue things that empower us and make us happy. The simple act of dressing up, or just reading a book on your favourite armchair, or, perhaps, cooking a meal for your family, could all help you achieve that. My style is currently about ease, comfort and cerebral sexiness rather than figure-hugging clothes. It’s all very functional as well. If I’m baking, I throw on my polka dotted apron. I might wear a smart tracksuit if I am running an errand. For the few times I have stepped out, I have been excited and happy to dress up and wear heels. It is my way of saying to life, ‘Thank you, I am grateful to be here!’
ELLE: What, would you say, has been a career highlight for you?
RJ: Running and growing a business has been a constant challenge. Sometimes it feels like my mind is racing at the rate of 100 kilometres per hour. I try to reign in my ideas and thoughts and trust my instinct with all decisions. It is my passion that drives the CSR health initiatives undertaken by RRO as well as the various programs initiated by the company to promote health and nutrition for children.
ELLE: Gucci lies at the nexus of art and fashion, both of which you love. Tell us about your relationship with the brand.
RJ: My parents wore Gucci. I now have beautiful vintage handbags, luggage and clothing. Gucci looks to the past with a viewpoint that’s wondrously fashion forward with equal parts androgyny, romance, sci-fi and fantasy. I find their pieces playful yet clever and so wearable! It’s certainly the thinking woman’s fashion brand. With Alessandro Michele at the helm, Gucci has been taking art and sustainability to a whole other level within the sphere of fashion. A favourite from my own wardrobe is a delicate organza gown embroidered with lotus flowers and koi fish.
Styling: Zoha Castellino, Photograph: Sasha Jairam, Hair & Makeup: Nishi Singh, Assisted By: Siddhi Dolas and Deepakshi Singh (For Styling)
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