Tarun Tahiliani’s style signature over the decades has found appeal with younger generations

In an industry preoccupied with the next big thing, Tarun Tahiliani questions the very idea of newness. “I find the obsession with it rather unnecessary,” he deadpans. “Many contemporary designs appear forced, different for the sake of being different. The goal isn’t to be different—it’s to be better, to be more thoughtful, to create something that lasts.” While others take note of how his old collections are making a comeback, he is busy refining silhouettes, perfecting drapes and thinking of new ways to bring craftsmanship into the future. “I love seeing pieces from a decade ago worn today,” he says, no doubt referring to the new generation of admirers birthed by his original muses.

Like interior designer Aliya Modi, who takes pleasure in wearing Tarun Tahiliani custom pieces “that have been loved before, that carry the essence of the women in my family and still feel relevant today”. “My mother (the late Minal Modi) always spoke about how she felt like herself in them,” Aliya recalls. “ They influenced the way she moved and carried herself.”

Tahiliani fondly remembers Minal’s effortless style and deep appreciation for couture. “She would come to the studio, adjust the drape, tell us how she’d wear it differently. She wasn’t just a client, she was a collaborator.” Aliya is the third generation of women in her family with a gift for spotting collectables. She references her maternal grandmother’s collection of saris, saying: “She was the grand dame of the chiffon sari. She never threw anything away. Everything was worn, treasured and eventually passed down.”