Suneet Varma On Blending Indian Craftsmanship With Contemporary Fashion

Suneet Varma is known to create magic with his attention to detail and combining Indian craftsmanship, decorative arts and an analytical approach to fabrics, textures and colours, the couturier’s work speaks volumes. The designer has a way of enhancing and encouraging the essence of femininity with his romantic and sophisticated silhouettes. Over the years, he has continued to uphold and surpass the standards he has set in this arena. Take, for instance, his latest collections ‘Nazm’ and ‘Quetzalli’, which the designer showcased at the Fashion Connect Season 20’s Grand Finale earlier this month.

While 'Nazm' celebrates the subtle side of femininity, 'Quetzalli' is an ode to the expressive side of femininity and is inspired by vibrant Mexican culture.

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In a conversation with Manifest, the couturier shares with us the beauty of both his collections, what makes them the ideal choice for wedding season, essentials every bridal trousseau must include, and his upcoming store launch.

In Conversation With Suneet Varma

Manifest: Tell us about your collections 'Nazm' and 'Quetzalli' and how they are similar yet different?

Suneet Varma: ‘Nazm’ is an ode to elegance—refined, sophisticated, and timeless, with an emphasis on fluid silhouettes and delicate embellishments. It speaks to those who appreciate understated luxury and poetic grace. ‘Quetzalli’, inspired by Mexico, is bold and vibrant, celebrating rich textures, intricate embroidery, and the exuberance of culture. While both collections honor femininity, ‘Nazm’' is subtle and ethereal, whereas ‘Quetzalli’ is expressive and full of life.

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M: What was your inspiration behind 'Nazm’s' cool-toned palette? Anytime the collection name comes, please put in single quotes

SV: 'Nazm’s' hues are inspired by the quiet sophistication of poetry—soft greys, icy blues, muted mauves, and deep charcoals evoke a sense of romance and nostalgia. I wanted to capture the essence of moonlit nights and vintage calligraphy, where every shade tells a story. The palette enhances the delicate embroidery and allows the wearer’s personality to shine through effortlessly.

M: How would you describe Mexican fashion in a sentence?

SV: Mexican fashion is a vibrant interplay of history and contemporary aesthetics—rich in color, intricate craftsmanship, and deeply rooted in cultural pride.

M: What was it like showcasing 'Nazm' and 'Quetzalli' at Fashion Connect Season 20?

SV: Showcasing both collections at Fashion Connect Season 20 was exhilarating. Seeing the contrast between 'Nazm’s' understated elegance and 'Quetzalli’s' exuberant vibrancy on the same runway was truly special. The audience’s response was incredible, and the grand finale setting made it even more memorable.

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M: Do you have a muse in mind when creating your collections?

SV: My muse is the contemporary woman—someone who is confident, embraces tradition yet redefines it in her own way. My designs aim to empower her, allowing her to express herself effortlessly through luxurious fabrics, intricate craftsmanship, and timeless silhouettes.

M: Any standout pieces from 'Nazm' and 'Quetzalli' for weddings or cocktails?

SV: From 'Nazm,' the intricately embroidered lehengas and fluid draped gowns are perfect for elegant wedding celebrations. For 'Quetzalli,' the statement jackets, embroidered capes, and structured sarees are bold choices for cocktail nights or wedding receptions. Each piece is designed to make the wearer feel graceful yet powerful.

M: Style advice for wedding guests, bridesmaids, or best men?

SV: Wedding guests should focus on timeless pieces with a modern touch. Bridesmaids can opt for draped saris, pastel-hued lehengas, or structured gowns with intricate detailing. A best man should experiment with textured bandhgalas, classic tuxedos, or embroidered Nehru jackets to elevate their look. The key is to balance sophistication with personality.

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M: Any underrated wedding-wear trends to watch out for?

SV: Monochrome looks, sheer layering, and metallic accents are trends to watch. Vintage revival—where heirloom embroidery and old-world silhouettes meet contemporary cuts—is also gaining momentum. The idea is to mix nostalgia with modern elegance for a unique, personalised style.

M: Bridal trousseau must-haves?

SV: A versatile silk sari, an elaborately embroidered jacket, a statement lehenga, chic cocktail gowns, and heritage jewelry like polki earrings or an intricately crafted maang tikka. These essentials offer a blend of tradition and versatility, ensuring the bride is prepared for every occasion post-wedding.

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M: Advice for brides incorporating heirloom pieces?

SV: Heirloom pieces add depth and emotion to a bridal look. A vintage sari can be reimagined as a lehenga, an ancestral dupatta can be paired with a contemporary ensemble, or an heirloom blouse can be styled with modern silhouettes. The magic lies in blending tradition with a fresh perspective.

M: How do you feel about your new store launch?

SV: The new store is an exciting chapter for us. It represents growth and the opportunity to bring our designs closer to more people. Every store is a reflection of the brand’s journey, a space where clients can immerse themselves in our world of couture, craftsmanship, and creativity. I look forward to welcoming everyone to this new destination of luxury and artistry.