The Royal Endeavour

After graduating in BSc (Fashion Design) from Arch Academy of Design, Jaipur, Payal Keyal decided to bring in a new approach to traditional Indian wear. Timeless silhouettes and intricate craftsmanship combined with a global appeal soon became hallmarks of her eponymous label, and she soon became the go-to for brides and her elite roster of clientele who wanted to the best of classic-meets-modern creations. “For me, couture is not just about fashion, it’s almost a spiritual like space I live in and do anything and everything that has never been done before in my own unique-signature style.”

Born in 1990 at Varanasi (formerly, Banaras), the city has played a huge role in honing her design sensibilities—and rightly so. Varanasi is home to one of India’s biggest handloom legacies. “Banaras, as a complete city, has been the starting point of my inspirations, be it in the subtle earthy tones of the architectural forms, the golden sunrise and sunset of the ghats or the traditional methods of textile weaving and expression of art in the form of traditional heritage fabric embellishments,” she reveals.

With opulence, versatility and functionality at its core, the New Delhi-based label covers the needs and moods of a modern bride. Payal Keyal’s design vocabulary seamlessly blends a deep-rooted Indian aesthetic with a fresh, urban perspective through ensembles like lehengas, anarkalis and gowns. Her latest collection White Mughals is a tribute to the grandeur of the era gone by. The splendid Mughal architecture was the starting point for this collection.

Layered with whimsical references like domes, arches and flowers, as well as vintage details and traditional techniques, the designer’s clothes speak a language of their own. The focus is on hand craftsmanship such as zardozi, zari work, fine chir embroidery and pearl work that’s adorned on rich fabrics such as Benarasi silks, velvets and organzas to create stunning bridal ensembles. The colour story oscillates between crimson red, ivory, pista green, fuchsia, pear green and peach to highlight the collection.


Payal Keyal
www.PayalKeyal.com • info@PayalKeyal.com
Instagram: @PayalKeyalBrides

Shop Payal Keyal in London at Nikaza Couture

Photography: photosbymaran