The multi-award winning Ekta Solanki is brand that’s been celebrated worldwide. The designer marries traditional Indian embroideries and embellishments with Western cuts to create a bridal and prêt-à-porter collection that wins international fans.
We love her designs so much we put her on our front cover (Autumn 2016, pictured above). The pearl-encrusted red and gold lehengha we specially selected for the Autumn 2016 cover is just one example of the exquisite gowns Ekta is known for.
The Beginning: “After graduating from the London College of Fashion I worked for various fashion houses before launching my eponymous couture label in 2004.”
The Stores: “I have a showroom in north west London and a studio in Delhi.”
The Inspiration: “I divide my time between London and Delhi so each day is different. I’m inspired by food, by travel, by the flurry of colours I see on a daily basis.”
The Design “We create bespoke bridalwear so each design is unique. But we use a selection of cuts, silhouettes and embroideries that are unmistakably Ekta Solanki.”
The Couture “We specialise in bridal couture, but we also offer a luxe prêt-à-porter collection that includes anarkalis, gowns and saris, as well as menswear and childrenswear.”
The Passion “Every step of my manufacturing is handled by a team I’ve trained myself. From designing to pattern cutting, dyeing, embroidery and tailoring, everything is under my supervision. Nothing is outsourced.”
The Brand “Unapologetic luxury and indulgence.”
SAY ‘YES’ TO THE DRESS
Ekta shares her tips on finding the perfect bridal gown.
1. Research. “Whether it’s online or walking into stores, you’ll get a better understanding of what you like and crucially, what you don’t.”
2. Time. “Banish the last-minute stress of waiting for your outfit by ordering in advance. We take up to 8 months to design bridal couture, and deliver your outfit up to 8 weeks before the Big Day.”
3. Service. “You deserve the process of designing your bridal gown to be memorable and seamless because you may only ever experience it once. It should be priceless.”
4. Confidence. “A bride has to trust their designer to make them look and feel the best they can.”
NATALIE MATHURA
“Ekta works to the highest level of detail and precision and delivers on quality and originality. I’m very particular about how I dress. I didn’t think anyone could create a wedding dress that would meet my expectations. Ekta exceeded them.”
NEENA KANTARIS
“Thank God for Pinterest – that’s how I foundthe amazingly talented Ekta Solanki. She was, without a doubt, the best decision I made for my wedding.”
NAMITA SELHI
“Ekta Solanki came to the rescue after my original outfits were stolen, just six weeks before my wedding. I can’t thank her enough and will forever be grateful.”
• www.EktaSolanki.com