Priya Ahluwalia is a fashion designer who is known for her sustainable and multicultural approach to clothing. She was born in London to a Nigerian father and an Indian mother, and she grew up surrounded by different cultures and traditions. She studied at the University of Westminster and the London College of Fashion, where she developed her signature style of mixing vintage fabrics and prints with contemporary silhouettes.
Priya Ahluwalia started her career as an intern at Alexander McQueen, where she learned the craft of tailoring and embroidery. In 2018, she inaugurated her own brand, Ahluwalia, drawing inspiration from her mixed heritage and her journeys to Lagos and Delhi. Her designs are made from deadstock and recycled materials, and feature patchwork, embroidery, and vibrant colors. She has collaborated with brands such as Adidas, Ganni, Browns, and Liberty London, and has published a book called Jalebi, which showcases the stories and images of the South Asian diaspora in London.
How Fashion Can Be Inspired By Your Values—Interview by Priya Ahluwalia
Priya Ahluwalia Top works
Ahluwalia AW19 collection
A collection that explored the themes of identity, migration, and nostalgia, featuring garments made from vintage Nigerian football shirts and Indian silk saris.
Ahluwalia SS20 collection
A collection that celebrated the diversity and beauty of black hair, featuring garments made from recycled denim and wool, and embellished with beads and crystals.
Jalebi book
A book that documented the lives and experiences of the South Asian community in London, featuring photographs by Laurence Ellis and interviews by Isabella Burley.
Awards won by Priya Ahluwalia
British Fashion Council NewGen Award 2019
An award that supports emerging talent in the British fashion industry.
H&M Design Award 2019
An award that recognizes innovative and sustainable fashion design.
LVMH Prize 2020 finalist
An award that honors young fashion designers from around the world.
Featured in Vogue, Elle, Dazed, i-D, The Guardian, and other publications.
A recognition of her work and influence in the fashion industry and culture.
Exhibited at Somerset House, Victoria & Albert Museum, and other venues.
A showcase of her work and vision in prestigious institutions.
Spoke at TEDxLondonWomen 2019.
A platform to share her ideas and insights on fashion, sustainability, and identity.
Priya Ahluwalia is one of the most promising and inspiring fashion designers of her generation. She is not only creating beautiful clothes, but also challenging the norms and practices of the fashion industry. She is passionate about social and environmental issues, and uses her platform to raise awareness and advocate for change. She is also a role model for young people who aspire to pursue their dreams and express their creativity.
Interesting facts about Priya Ahluwalia
She is fluent in English, Hindi, Punjabi, Yoruba, and French.
She learned these languages from her family and her travels.
She is a fan of Bollywood movies and Nigerian music.
She enjoys watching films by Karan Johar and listening to songs by Burna Boy and Wizkid.
She is a vegetarian and loves Indian food.
She follows a plant-based diet for ethical and health reasons, and likes to cook dishes like dal makhani and palak paneer.
Rumours
She is dating rapper Stormzy.
This rumour started when they were spotted together at a fashion event in London.
She is launching a beauty line.
This rumour started when she posted a picture of herself wearing a lipstick with the caption “coming soon”.
She is moving to New York.
This rumour started when she announced that she was working on a project with a New York-based brand.
Relationships
Family
She is close to her parents and her younger brother, who support her career and inspire her work.
Friends
She has a circle of friends who are also in the creative industry, such as photographers, stylists, and artists.
Love affairs
She is private about her love life and does not reveal much about her romantic partners.
Priya Ahluwalia in Movies/Films
Ahluwalia: A Short Film by Samona Olanipekun
A film that followed Priya Ahluwalia as she traveled to Lagos and Delhi to explore her roots and culture.
The Future of Fashion with Alexa Chung
A series that featured Priya Ahluwalia as one of the rising stars of the British fashion scene.
The Next Black: A Film About the Future of Clothing
A film that included Priya Ahluwalia as one of the innovators who are shaping the future of fashion with sustainability and technology.
