Latest news with #Valaya
News18
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
JJ Valaya Set To Mark 33 Years With Closing Show At India Couture Week 2025
The India Couture Week 2025 will witness a closing showcase by JJ Valaya on July 30 in New Delhi. The much-anticipated India Couture Week is all set to take place in Delhi from July 23 to July 30. Hyundai India Couture Week 2025, in association with Reliance Brands and presented by the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), will conclude its landmark 18th edition with none other than JJ Valaya – a designer long celebrated for his majestic aesthetic and mastery of couture. Known for redefining luxury through a uniquely Indian lens, Valaya will return to the runway as the closing couturier, promising a spectacular finale that intertwines heritage, opulence, and storytelling with contemporary finesse. A stalwart of Indian fashion, JJ Valaya's signature style, rooted in royal grandeur and architectural precision, has made his shows much more than just fashion presentations; they are immersive experiences steeped in culture and craft. His highly anticipated collection will not only mark the culmination of the week but also underscore his enduring influence in the world of couture. As always, expectations are high for a show that promises theatrical scale, exquisite detailing, and a narrative that bridges the past with the present. Talking about this upcoming show, JJ Valaya said, 'As we celebrate 33 years of JJ VALAYA, we could think of no better way to mark this milestone than by presenting the closing show of the 2025 edition of Hyundai India Couture Week. We thank Hyundai and FDCI for this opportunity, which promises to be an unforgettable showcase of elegance and grandeur – brought to life through our signature language of creative expression." Mr. Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director & Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India Limited, said: 'We are proud to continue our partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) for the third consecutive year at India Couture Week 2025. This year, we will showcase the Hyundai CRETA Electric at the 18th HICW 2025, symbolizing our vision for a sustainable and stylish future. We are especially excited about the grand finale showcase by the legendary designer JJ Valaya, whose work beautifully bridges tradition and modernity. We look forward to continuing this meaningful partnership with FDCI, as we drive forward our shared vision of progress and creative excellence." Sunil Sethi, Chairman, FDCI, shared his thoughts on the announcement: 'JJ Valaya has been a visionary in the world of Indian couture, and we are honoured to have him close Hyundai India Couture Week 2025. His deep-rooted legacy, exquisite detailing, and timeless designs make him the perfect designer to conclude this landmark edition. His closing showcase will undoubtedly be a fitting crescendo to a week celebrating India's finest craftsmanship and creative brilliance." Now in its 18th year, Hyundai India Couture Week remains the country's definitive platform for celebrating the finest in couture. The much-anticipated closing showcase by JJ Valaya is set for July 30, 2025, in New Delhi. view comments First Published: July 15, 2025, 18:32 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Hans India
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Hans India
JJ Valaya to Close Hyundai India Couture Week 2025 with a Grand Finale in New Delhi
The 18th edition of Hyundai India Couture Week 2025, in association with Reliance Brands and presented by the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), is set to conclude on a spectacular note as legendary designer JJ Valaya will take center stage for the grand finale. Renowned for his regal aesthetic, impeccable craftsmanship, and storytelling through couture, JJ Valaya will present a collection that promises to be a fusion of heritage and modernity. Marking 33 years of his celebrated fashion journey, Valaya's showcase is expected to be one of the most anticipated moments of the week; an unforgettable celebration of elegance, grandeur, and timeless design. FDCI's Honour to a Couture Visionary Sunil Sethi, Chairman of FDCI, echoed the excitement, 'JJ Valaya has been a visionary in the world of Indian couture, and we are honoured to have him close Hyundai India Couture Week 2025. His deep-rooted legacy, exquisite detailing, and timeless designs make him the perfect designer to conclude this landmark edition. His closing showcase will undoubtedly be a fitting crescendo to a week celebrating India's finest craftsmanship and creative brilliance.' JJ Valaya's 33-Year Celebration Reflecting on this milestone moment, JJ Valaya shared,'As we celebrate 33 years of JJ VALAYA, we could think of no better way to mark this milestone than by presenting the closing show of the 2025 edition of Hyundai India Couture Week. We thank Hyundai and FDCI for this opportunity, which promises to be an unforgettable showcase of elegance and grandeur, brought to life through our signature language of creative expression.' Hyundai's Vision: Where Style Meets Sustainability Continuing its commitment to support India's creative and cultural legacy, Hyundai Motor India enters its third consecutive year as a key partner for India Couture Week. Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director & Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India Ltd., said, ' We are proud to continue our partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) for the third consecutive year at India Couture Week 2025. This partnership reflects our deep-rooted commitment to promote India's rich culture, heritage and the exceptional talent of our designers. Also, through this collaboration, we celebrate the brilliance of Indian design, the spirit of innovation and the global appeal of our homegrown talent.' Speaking on this year's couture week & JJ Valaya's showcase, Mr. Garg further added, 'This year, we will showcase the Hyundai CRETA Electric at the 18th HICW 2025, symbolizing our vision for a sustainable and stylish future. We are especially excited about the grand finale showcase by the legendary designer JJ Valaya, whose work beautifully bridges tradition and modernity. We look forward to continuing this meaningful partnership with FDCI, as we drive forward our shared vision of progress and creative excellence.' What to Expect Now in its 18th year, Hyundai India Couture Week remains the premier platform for the country's finest couturiers. This year also celebrates a decade of the Hyundai CRETA, with the upcoming CRETA EV featured alongside India's top design talent; highlighting the intersection of fashion, innovation, and luxury. The grand finale by JJ Valaya will take place on July 30, 2025, in New Delhi, bringing the curtain down on a week long extravaganza dedicated to couture, culture and creative brilliance. Stay tuned as fashion's most awaited event of the year prepares to close with a showcase that promises legacy, spectacle, and timeless elegance.
Hindustan Times
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
The regal tale of fashion designer JJ Valaya
JJ Valaya wears many crowns — from pioneering India's fashion scene to capturing timeless moments through his lens, he is truly the czar of Indian couture and luxury. While his commanding presence might seem intimidating at first, those who know him well quickly discover his sharp wit and delightful sense of humour. For our exclusive shout, we convinced the couturier to embrace his signature regal style and pose adorned in jewels — a first for the designer — inviting us into the exquisite World of Valaya, where heritage and haute couture merge effortlessly. In an exclusive shoot with HT City Showstoppers, JJ Valaya, also known as the Czar of Indian Couture, channels his inner Maharaja while posing for us, adorned with jewels by Tribe Amrapali. Reflecting on his journey, Valaya calls his shift from chartered accountancy to fashion design 'a divine intervention'. "I had a profound realisation while doing CA — I didn't know what I wanted to do, but I was very clear on what I didn't want to do," he laughs, "I remember selling all my accounting books to the kabaadiwala for about 240-250 Rs, then giving the money to my mum. Needless to say, she was furious! Fashion wasn't an obvious option back then. But an uncle told me about a design course at Hotel Samrat, Delhi. The moment I stepped in, I knew I belonged there." Mentored by Rohit Khosla After graduating from NIFT, Valaya interned with the legendary Rohit Khosla, whom he calls "the father of modern Indian fashion". "He was the original fashion icon in India - the one who discovered Rohit Bal in a nightclub. What I admired most was his effortless style and fearless experimentation. His 1989 collection, made entirely with sutri (a jute robe), wooden beads, and shells, still feels relevant today." A lost royal Born in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, Valaya's affinity for royalty runs deep. "I think I'm a lost royal, a maharaja reborn. Jodhpur's regal spirit shaped me. Royalty defines my ethos. I strive to rediscover, reinvent and represent a lost grandeur. The art-deco era fascinates me; you'll see that influence all around my store. Everything I create is personal - I'll keep going till I can. Ultimately, the brand must outlive me, and that is its true purpose." The photographer's eye Valaya's artistry has never been confined to couture alone. A gifted photographer, he began exploring the lens during his student days at NIFT, eventually holding his first art show in 2011. "Photography is my release,"he shares, "I shoot most of my campaigns. I'm not into commercial photography - Henri Cartier-Bresson, the father of candid photography, is my absolute God. I've managed to capture moments I hope will be treasured forever. "The depth of his work hasn't gone unnoticed. Acclaimed photographer Tarun Khiwal - known for his masterful use of light and one of India's most celebrated fashion photographers — once attended Valaya's book launch and was so struck by his photographs that he remarked he'd need to "unlearn everything" to be able to shoot images like those. A compliment like that, coming from a legend, says it all. Master of his own fate At one point, disillusioned with Indian fashion's direction, Valaya closed his stores and took a sabbatical. "I was bored with the scene — nobody was embracing true luxury. I feared I was losing my way. During that break, I met two amazing people who have become lifelong partners. I bounced back, and by the end of this year, we'll have seven to eight stores across India. Words of wisdom and family pride Those who know Valaya beyond the ateliers and camera lenses would tell you that his creative wellspring is as much spiritual as it is artistic. He practices belly meditation — a discipline that grounds and rejuvenates him. "I was very, fortunate to discover Tavneer ji, who is my master and guru, he shares with quiet reverence. He adds, "I've been able to find someone who pretty much redefined my whole existence for me. Through the highs and lows, every part of my journey is made enjoyable with this practice. I don't think I could have hoped for a bigger gift than this. I've seen so many miracles through this practice.". Whenever he finds the time, he makes it a point to visit his guru — a ritual that, for Valaya, is as essential as his art. And just when the conversation feels like it might float into the ether, he brings it back down to earth with a wry smile: "If I could change one thing, I'd probably eat a little less. On his daughter Hoorvi J Valaya's success as a stylist, he beams with pride: 'What I truly admire is that she never leaned on me. After her studies, she told me, 'I don't want to work with you; I want to carve my own path. And please don't make a single phone call for me. She's incredibly hardworking and passionate about her craft. I'm truly grateful to God for everything.' Credits Styling and creative direction: Akshay Kaushal Photographer: Abhishek Rao
The Hindu
30-05-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Fashion-forward villas in demand
The coming together of fashion and interiors isn't new. Internationally, Armani, Bulgari and Versace are just three big maisons that have stamped their names on hotels and homes. In India, Sabyasachi's collaboration with Asian Paints and Delhi-based JJ Valaya's tile collaboration with FCML have allowed customers to bring a bit of the luxe life to their humble abode. But what about giving the entire home the designer treatment? Last year, Mumbai-based menswear designer Kunal Rawal announced that he was entering the luxury real estate space. He chose Boheim, as they had projects planned for Goa, Alibaug and Hyderabad. In Goa, Rawal will be designing the interiors of Finca Sagrada, a project in Colvale that features a stream running through the development, while interior designer Gauri Khan is helming the interiors of Sanctuary, a project in nearby Siolim. Lastly, Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla are bringing their maximalist approach to villas in Goa, but this time in Moira. There is another project as well, called Gaia, featuring estates in Alibaug. Those who have visited the duo's new store in Mumbai's Jio World Plaza will agree that the veteran designers know a thing or two about immersive experiences, rooted in Indian craftsmanship. A pandemic pivot This is not the first time fashion and interiors are coming together, with Bengaluru-based Sounak Sen Barat, designer at House of Three, also working across both design spheres. Barat launched interiors as a new vertical during the pandemic and hasn't looked back. Today, he makes time for both fashion and real estate projects and says, 'We also work B2B in collaboration with niche luxury builders in the luxury second homes market.' Clearly there is a growing demand for all things designer approved in the living space. Samarth Bajaj, director at Boheim, says his company is aiming to do things differently, prioritising the environment, and hoping to champion craftsmanship, while also working with some of the biggest names in fashion design. The Bajaj family has run Shiv Shakti Constructions since the 1960s, with projects in Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. About tying up with these fashion designers, Bajaj notes, 'So, the idea came from the fact that I've seen the spaces that they've designed for themselves, in terms of their homes or their retail stores, and I've absolutely loved what they've done.' He elaborates, 'I think that people who are not formally trained in a particular field have the liberty of bringing in a fresh perspective. Sometimes when you're professionally trained, you're bound by what you've learned.' In the past, designers such as Delhi-based Tarun Tahiliani and Valaya have worked on villas for private clients and developers. Valaya notes, 'My process involves creation as well as curation,' and so his interiors include custom-made furniture anchoring other elements such as antiques and carpets. He goes on to explain that even though aesthetics is what people see first, any home must be architecturally sound, and to that end, he works with an architecture firm that ensures the technical drawings can be executed as well. Tahiliani has also worked in Goa on villa rentals such as the AIS Glass Villa. Playing to their strengths Every designer has their own signature, as Barat points out. 'We create an industrial/Brutalism-inspired base and layer it with a combination of colonial, Bengali, Dravidian and Indian heritage elements that have been customised or sourced from across the length and breadth of India,' he explains. With Boheim, both Jani and Rawal admitted to being excited to branch out as they play to their strengths: looking to work with traditional crafts, while creating functional spaces. As Khosla puts it, 'It's a home, so we can't over-clutter it with too many things.' Even though luxury now often involves automation, Khosla has a lot to say about what we're losing as we give up on tactility. 'Abu and I hate this modernisation to a certain extent because putting your lights on and dimming them and putting them on too sharp… everything is at the click of a button now. Having said that, we are adapting to modernisation today,' he says. Bajaj, who is behind The Designer's Class, an online learning platform catering to those interested in design, explains that getting some of Indian fashion's biggest names on board for these homes was a conscious choice. 'Under the brand [Boheim], we have about 10 projects that are ongoing right now. So, logistically it would have been much tougher if only one designer were to execute all projects.' Obviously no one is complaining. Designers are excited to have different avenues to showcase their vision, with Valaya noting, 'I've found spaces as interesting as people because there's a complete blank canvas and you start working on it, whereas when it comes to people, it's about incorporating a person's individuality into what you're creating.' Boheim plans to deliver three of its 12 projects this year, with the first handover scheduled for June. Secret chambers Each of the designers we spoke with seemed to enjoy different aspects of putting together a design. For Valaya, who is a maximalist designer, it's no surprise that he looks forward to the detailing, 'from the right kind of art to the right kind of carpet, the right kind of artefacts'. Barat, on the other hand, revels in creating hidden spaces. He says, '[It] could be the kids' room or a hidden study, library, your personal speakeasy hidden bar, or a fully loaded walk-in wardrobe through a hidden door that is probably a bookshelf. The trick is to hide it in plain sight, perhaps make a focal point wall fixture into a secret door.' Lastly, Rawal champions functionality, and notes, 'Men often gravitate toward spaces that are practical and efficient. Think smart storage, multi-use furniture, and layouts that make sense for everyday use whether that's lounging, working, or entertaining.' When designing, Rawal keeps in mind that, 'A home should reflect how it's used; every corner should hold intention, every space should serve a purpose.'
Forbes
31-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Almond Fragrances Ideal For Spring
Parfums de Marly Valaya Exclusif Vanilla fragrances reign during the winter months but March and April present with some challenges for gourmand lovers as the note can feel heavy and cloying in warmer weather. Almond notes have seen a rise in popularity with perfume house Parfums de Marly choosing to feature the note in its latest flanker of the orange blossom-forward Valaya perfume. Additionally, influential perfume store Scent Bar recently collaborated with Greek perfumer Theodoros Kalotinis to create a photorealistic nutty pastry creation called Almond Tart. Internet analytics supports the rise in popularity of the nutty note with the search term 'almond perfume' seeing a 68% increase this year compared to 2024. According to Future Market Insights the global gourmand fragrance market is projected to grow from 32.55 billion in 2025 to 55 billion in 2035. Perfume brands are seeking to capitalize on consumer tastes for sweetness but recognize that a different way to scratch that itch may be necessary. Almond offers a lighter powdery alternative to caramel and vanilla, but still provides a warmth and coziness desirable this time of year. It's an extremely versatile note that can enhance white florals or provide a beautiful creaminess without being too heavy. Here are some of the best almond perfumes from new designer launches to several niche classics that display the almond note in its various incarnations whether it be fresh, floral or creamy. All are sure to offer a nice alternative to your favorite vanilla fragrance. Parfums de Marly Valaya Exclusif Parfums de Marly Valaya Exclusif The original Valaya is often seen as the equivalent of a freshly-laundered white-buttoned down shirt, but some feel the peach and ambroxan create an undesirable screechiness. The Exclusif version still has the original's bright orange blossom, but replaces the peach opening with a creamy almond note. The result is stunning and more subtle, but equally as elegant. Chanel Comete Chanel Les Exclusif COMÈTE The Chanel Les Exclusifs line has produced some modern day classics like the white chocolate patchouli masterpiece Coromandel or the bold animalic statement fragrance Le Lion, but Olivier Polge has created the house's most luminous fragrance yet with COMÈTE. It opens with Chanel's signature sparkling aldehydes and seasonally-appropriate cherry blossom; heliotrope provides the creaminess of a floral almond and combines seamlessly with iris for a lovely powdery dry down. Powdery scents are trending in 2025 and Chanel as always. is leading the perfume pack with this floral gem. Keiko Mecheri Loukhoum Keiko Mecheri Loukhoum No list featuring almond-forward perfumes would be complete without Loukhoum. Originally launched in 2006, this scent is a powder bomb in the best way. The scent features rose and almond and is meant to emulate the dense richness of Turkish Delight. It's perfect for cooler spring evenings and makes a statement without overpowering the wearer. Profvmvm Roma Confetto Profvmvm Roma Confetto Many fragrance aficionados consider Confetto the ultimate almond fragrance with incredible lasting power. Profumum Roma perfumes feature extremely high fragrance oil concentrations often in the 40% range and their compositions are purposefully linear in order to highlight a star ingredient. Confetto is meant to evoke the sweetness of Italian sugared almonds with a combo of almond, a spicy hint of anise and a vanillic base. Creed Delphinus Creed Delphinus Inspired by the radiant Delphinus constellation this fragrance is meant to capture the beauty of starlight. The bit of incense in the opening make it an ideal night time fragrance while almond, heliotrope and orris lend a nutty sweetness and earthiness. Regime des Fleurs Green Vanille Regime des Fleurs Green Vanille This is a vanilla returning to its wilder roots thanks to a combo of green hazelnut, blue chamomile and almond milk. Orgasmo by Hilde Soliani Orgasmo by Hilde Soliani This is an intoxicating combo of Italian amaretto and almond. Italian perfumer Hilde Soliani is known for creating perfumes that evoke a specific memory often drawing inspiration from the culinary world. The idea for this fragrance came to her while sipping an iced almond milk coffee at the beach with friends. Van Cleef & Arpels Bois D'Amande Van Cleef & Arpels Bois D'Amande This is a timeless oriental wood made fresh with a hint of lemon. The delicate sweet almond accord mixed with cedar lends it a depth ideal for transitional weather. The addictive musky dry down makes this perfect for every day wear. Widian Almond Widian Almond An underrated fruity floral that opens with a burst of pulpy freshness thanks to raspberry and mandarin, the almond and tuberose add a milky lushness perfect for springtime picnics in the sunshine.
