‘Every Girl Dreams Of Being A Sabyasachi Bride,’ Says Avanti Nagrath

The camera loves Avanti Nagrath, and it’s easy to see why. A blend scene at such a young age. “It feels incredibly surreal sometimes,” Avanti muses, her voice carrying a gentle warmth that offsets the fierce determination she exudes on the runway. The year 2022 marked a turning point in Avanti’s career, when she made history as the first Indian model to open a Versace show at Milan Fashion Week.

Since then, Avanti has become a sought-after face, gracing the runways of some of the most prestigious global designers and working alongside industry titans. “I’m grateful for every single opportunity. It’s been such a whirlwind, a constant learning curve.” For the uninitiated, Avanti’s impressive portfolio includes brands like Chanel, Dior, Hermès, Off-White, Ferragamo, Sabyasachi, Courreges, Roberto Cavalli, Manish Malhotra, and Boss, among many others. Within a short span of time, Avanti has solidified her status as not just one of the top models in the country, but also a name to reckon with globally.

When asked if there was a specific moment when she felt she had truly ‘made it’, she pauses. “You know, I don’t think that feeling has quite settled in yet. With every new project, there’s a fresh set of challenges and triumphs. I honestly believe that even years down the line, I’ll still feel like I’m growing, constantly evolving.”

The fashion industry, as anyone within its orbit knows, operates at a relentless pace. Fashion weeks blur into campaigns, and continents become mere stopovers. Navigating this high-octane world requires a unique kind of resilience. “Starting so young, I definitely felt overwhelmed initially,” Avanti admits. “But I’ve learned that establishing a strong personal routine is crucial. It’s my anchor amidst the chaos. Waking up and having that quiet hour to myself, practising yoga, taking care of my skin, and nourishing my body with healthy food… these are non-negotiables. They create a sense of stability that allows me to embrace the energy around me without feeling completely swept away.”

In a surprising revelation, she shares two unexpected facets of her personality. “People often perceive me as shy,” she confides with a laugh, “but once I feel comfortable, I can be quite talkative! Also, something many don’t know is that I played national-level basketball for Delhi.” And despite her seemingly fearless presence on towering runways, she admits to a rather common fear: heights.

As we chat more in between shots, we learn that behind the captivating gaze and confident stride lies a young woman brimming with curiosity. “The real Avanti,” she shares with a genuine smile, “is quite adventurous and sporty! I love the thrill of spontaneous plans and the joy of discovering new things. I think I’m just inherently curious about the world and how everything works. Right now, I’m drawn to photography and wish to learn more about coffee,” interests Avanti has developed during her travels. “Coffee plays such an important role in our lives… everyone’s always asking for it! And as I began experiencing different flavours of coffee while travelling, I became curious to learn more.”

This inquisitiveness extends beyond her professional realm, colouring her perspective on life itself. While she acknowledges moments of impulsiveness, she leans towards a more logical approach that likely contributes to her grounded nature. Avanti’s personal style reflects this thoughtful yet adaptable spirit. “I’d describe it as effortlessly chic,” she says. “I love the simplicity of basic colours, but I always try to elevate them with a striking accessory.

A statement handbag or a bold piece of jewellery. Then there are days when I feel like embracing vibrant hues and floral prints. It really depends on my mood! Comfort is key for my everyday looks… a cosy hoodie and jeans in winter, a breezy long dress in summer. And I have a real fondness for well-tailored blazers and suits.”

When the conversation shifts to designers she admires, her list is a blend of international powerhouses and cherished Indian couturiers. “Currently, I’m obsessed

with Miu Miu — the bold colours, chic, easy silhouettes… I love everything. Oh, and I also like Celine and Saint Laurent,” she reveals.

“And, of course, when it comes to Indian design, I have immense respect for Anita Dongre’s beautiful dresses, as well as the innovative vision of Anamika Khanna, and the iconic artistry of Sabyasachi. Their workmanship is excellent.” After a brief pause, Avanti adds, “As a model, wearing Indian designers and silhouettes makes me feel royal. You can’t really compare it to wearing the biggest names in global fashion; they’re totally different experiences. You embody different characters with different looks.”

As we delve deeper, the conversation steers towards love and relationships. For Avanti, love at this stage in her life is an emotion that radiates happiness, extending beyond romantic connections to encompass the bonds with family and friends. “It’s about genuine care, unwavering loyalty, and a mutual desire to see each other grow and thrive,” she reflects. “It’s not about possessiveness, but about supporting each other’s individual journeys.”

Navigating love in a career where constant travel is the norm presents its own set of challenges, but Avanti feels that “love is an emotion that stays with you no matter the distance”. “It’s about the bond you share with your partner or significant other. Little gestures and solid communication makes it easy to navigate tough situations. And I believe if you make the effort, you won’t fail,” she asserts.

When we ask about the cornerstones of a strong and happy marriage, Avanti’s response is thoughtful and mature. “Loyalty is paramount, as is open and honest communication. And I truly believe in allowing each other the space to be independent, to pursue their own passions and celebrate their successes. Loving every facet of a person is what builds a lasting connection.”

She emphasises the importance of shared values while also recognising the enriching dynamic that different perspectives can bring to a partnership. Her parents’ marriage stands out as a guiding example — their enduring companionship, supporting one another through thick and thin, is something she hopes to emulate in her relationship someday. 

The topic of weddings brings a soft smile to her face. “You know, it’s funny, sitting here now is probably the first time I’m truly thinking about my own wedding,” she confesses.

“It’s not something I actively think about, I’m only 23!” While she hasn’t envisioned a detailed picture of her big day, she holds a refreshing perspective. “I believe that when the time is right, everything will naturally fall into place. Overthinking it now might create expectations that don’t align with reality. I’d rather let it unfold organically, a beautiful surprise.”

However, given her intimate understanding of the fashion world, the hypothetical question of her dream wedding trousseau sparks a playful intrigue. “Ah, that’s a secret for now!” she teases. “It’ll be a surprise for everyone when the time comes.” Yet, when prompted about a celebrity wedding aesthetic she admires, a certain iconic Indian designer comes to mind. “I think every girl dreams of being a Sabyasachi bride,” she admits.

Her own experience walking the designer’s 25th-anniversary show, draped in a stunning black sari, clearly left a lasting impression. “It felt magical. The sari itself felt so intrinsically Indian, yet so timelessly elegant.”

Her appreciation for saris extends beyond that show. “Wearing a sari makes me feel incredibly close to home. It’s a sense of connection to my roots that a beautifully tailored YSL suit, which makes me feel like a boss woman ready to conquer the world, simply cannot evoke. Both are powerful, but in distinctly unique ways,” she tells us. And Avanti’s favours the chiffon saris. “A beautiful red chiffon sari will always remain a favourite. In fact, if I had to choose between a lehenga and a sari, I’d always pick a sari.”

Her love for jewellery is equally apparent. In between shots, we catch Avanti admiring the beautiful, intricate jewels laid out for the cover shoot. Personally, Avanti favours delicate pieces. “I do love jewellery. And I love coloured gemstones… rubies, emeralds, diamonds, you name it. But I don’t like to wear too many things altogether, I’d probably go for a nice pair of earrings or rings,” she shares.

A family heirloom Avanti has her eyes on is a pair of ruby earrings her mother owns. “Anything that’s owned by my mother is special to me,” Avanti explains with affection, “after all, she is a special lady! Her precious ruby earrings are stunning, and she lets me wear them once in a while for work events or other special occasions,” she tells us. 

As our conversation draws to a close, we turn to Avanti’s aspirations for the future. While she keeps the specifics close to her heart, her ambition is palpable. “I have clear goals in mind, but I prefer to let my actions speak louder. I want everyone to witness my journey as it unfolds.”

Her platform, now global, is something she intends to use with intention, particularly to uplift aspiring models from India. “I want to encourage more representation and empower everyone to use their voice. My message to young people, especially girls, is to fearlessly pursue their passions. Hard work and perseverance truly yield results, so never give up on your dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem.”

As this global muse continues to write her own captivating story, Avanti leaves us with a parting thought. “This one thing on my wishlist, or rather the one thing I’m manifesting currently, is to walk as a Chanel bride this year.” 

Cover image credits: Brocade jacket and trousers by Rajesh Pratap Singh; Uncut diamond earrings by The Gem Palace

Photographs by Avani Rai; Fashion; Creative direction: Gautam Kalra; Location courtesy: The Leela Palace Hotel, Jaipur; Hair and makeup: Kiran Denzongpa at Feat Artists; Hair and makeup assistant: Karchung Gurung; Styling team: Kaveri Sharma and Damini Sharma; Photography assistant Daksh Chindalia; Model: Avanti Nagrath at Inega; Bookings editor: Varun Shah; Production: Sanju Bhola Sharma at The Glaze Production & Studio..