Masoom Minawala on Fashion, Motherhood, and Finding Balance

She has come a long way in her entrepreneurial journey—from building fashion-led content to leading the narrative when it comes to rooting for Indian designers and their representation on the global stage. We caught up with Masoom Minawala to talk about her craft and career choices, embracing evolution while staying true to her identity, and what it takes to drown out the noise in a profession where one is under constant scrutiny and public vigilance.

Manifest: You’ve moved from being a lifestyle content creator to a global fashion authority. How has your relationship with fashion evolved along with your personal style?

Masoom Minawala: Fashion began as a form of self-expression for me—an experimental phase where I was discovering my voice. As my exposure grew, it evolved into a language through which I could represent where I come from and what I stand for. My personal style today is far more intentional. I gravitate towards pieces that reflect craftsmanship, meaning, and longevity. It’s less about following trends and more about expressing identity.

M: You’ve been a strong advocate for Indian designers and crafts on a global platform. Do you think they’re getting enough recognition?

MM: There has certainly been progress, with Indian designers appearing on global platforms more than ever. But there’s still a long way to go. True recognition isn’t just about visibility—it’s about consistent representation in the global fashion conversation. Indian craft deserves to be seen not as exotic or occasional, but as contemporary, relevant, and world-class.

There are so many homegrown labels doing incredible work today, both within India and internationally. Among younger designers, Reik Studio and Richa Khemka really stand out for me. That said, the list is endless. Indian fashion right now is rich with talent, depth, and exciting new voices— it’s inspiring to witness this moment. Very conscious. I understand the responsibility that comes with influence. Fashion and lifestyle content go beyond aesthetics—they shape aspiration and self-worth. I try to ensure that what I share feels honest, inclusive, and empowering, rather than intimidating or unrealistic.

M: You were one of the first Indian digital creators to live-stream your wedding. How did that shape the wedding landscape?

MM: At the time, it felt like a natural extension of my relationship with my audience. I had grown up with them online, so sharing that moment felt organic. The response was overwhelmingly warm. I think it helped shift the narrative around weddings—from perfection to connection, from spectacle to storytelling.

M: What is your idea of a perfect marriage?

MM: I don’t believe in a perfect marriage; I believe in a conscious one. Mutual respect, open communication, and growing together are essential. It’s about being on the same team, especially when life feels overwhelming.

M: How important is choosing the right partner for a woman building a global career?

MM: It’s incredibly important. The right partner doesn’t compete with your ambition—they support it. When a woman feels emotionally secure, she has the freedom to take risks, dream bigger, and fully show up in her career.

M: How has marriage shaped the woman and entrepreneur you are today?

MM: Marriage has given me perspective. It’s taught me patience, balance, and the true value of partnership. As an entrepreneur, having a strong personal foundation helps me make clearer, more grounded decisions.

M: How has motherhood changed you, and how do you balance work and life?

MM: Motherhood has made me deeply intentional with my time. My priorities are clearer, and I’m more present in every role I play. Balance isn’t about doing everything equally—it’s about focusing on what matters most in each phase, without guilt.

M: How do you maintain authenticity in an age of curated perfection on social media?

MM: By allowing myself to be human. I don’t believe in showing only highlights. Authenticity comes from sharing experiences honestly, without trying to fit into a mould. People connect more with truth than perfection.

M: You’ve worked with some of the world’s biggest luxury houses. How do you align these collaborations with your personal beliefs?

MM: I’m very selective about the brands I work with. Alignment in values, respect for culture, and long-term intent matter to me. A collaboration has to feel like a natural extension of my journey—not just a commercial transaction.

M: Has this changed your definition of success?

MM: Absolutely. Success today isn’t just about scale or visibility. It’s about impact, longevity, and building something meaningful without compromising who I am.

M: How do you stay grounded amid constant visibility and scrutiny?

MM: By staying connected to my real life—my family and inner circle. I constantly remind myself that social media is just one part of life, not the whole picture.

M: What have been the biggest challenges in building your brand?

MM: Breaking stereotypes and being taken seriously as a creator in a traditional industry was challenging. Building credibility took time, consistency, and resilience—but it made the journey far more rewarding.

M: What advice would you give to aspiring creators who want to work with global luxury labels?

MM: Focus on building your voice before chasing brands. Be consistent, professional, and patient. Global opportunities follow when your work reflects clarity, credibility, and a strong sense of self.

Photographs by Sushant Chhabria; Styling and Creative Direction by Ruhani Singh; Hair and Make-up: Eleni Chatzinikolidou of Anima Creatives; Bookings Editor and Production: Varun Shah; Art and Props: Risha Shetty; Production Assistant: Ishani Bhojwani