Exclusive : Sonam encouraged me to start my own label : Shehla Khan

She's one of the most sought after designers in the industry right now and has definitely made a big name for herself in a short span of time. From BFF Sonam Kapoor to Kareena Kapoor to Jacqueline Fernandez.... the celebrity client list is endless. Designer Shehla Khan was kind enough to answer a few quick questions for our readers. Read on :)

You are one of India's most sought after designers with client list that includes names like Sonam Kapoor and Jacqueline Fernandez. So how did it all start? When did you think of becoming a designer?

I actually did my masters in styling . I was working with a few magazines for a while but then started to freelance a bit . Somewhere down the line I ended up designing a few outfits, one of which was for Sonam . The outfit I designed received immense appreciation and Sonam and my father encouraged me to start my own label which I eventually did.

You began your career working for Manish Malhotra. How was that experience?

It was the best practical schooling I could have received. Being a man of so many jobs, Manish always encouraged me to follow what interested me - be it films, bridal wear or his ready to wear collections . I was able to explore all facets of designing as well as styling and learnt so much from him. He knows how to dress women and make them look beautiful - be it a bride, an actress or anyone. This instilled a zeal in me to make something of my talents.

You have been showing your work at Lakme Fashion Week these past two years. How has the experience been? What can we expect from you this year?

The response I have received has been overwhelming. I have a very strong sense of aesthetic and have a hard time expanding my creative thoughts. I try and use different trends and mould them into my own aesthetic and it gives me immense pleasure that people appreciate that.

We won’t be wrong in assuming that your BFF Sonam Kapoor is your muse. What makes Sonam the perfect girl to be the face of your brand?

Sonam understands clothes. She wears clothes with enthusiasm and loves dressing up in various looks. She is able to carry out all sorts of different looks with immense grace along with adding her own to it - be it Indian wear, couture or even day wear.

Can you describe a ‘Shehla’ girl in three words?

Classic, graceful, feminine

What has been the most satisfying moment of your career thus far? Any compliment, any incident, any learning experience that has been etched on your heart forever?

When Sonam wore my outfit to Cannes. For me, it was the beginning of a new life because my eventual dream is to be able to take my brand international, specifically in Europe. Also dressing all the beautiful actresses is something that I will always love. From Karishma Kapoor, who is my idol, to Kareena, to my best friend Sonam.... I love designing for them.

Your clothes are ultra feminine and have a very vintage feel to them... with a lot of use of pastels and lace. What is your personal style like?

I'm very monochromatic. You will always find me in either black or white or black and white. Seeing me in color is a very rare thing unless its Indian clothes where I prefer sticking to pastels anyway. However, I do love lace. My wardrobe has a lot of lacy attire.

Who are your style icons?

Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Diane Kruger. In designers, Valentino and John Galliano.

What would you wanna say to all the aspiring designers out there?

Always be true to your craft, never do something you don't believe in because you'll always be unsure of it. Be original even when innovating because that's what will give you an identity.

One last question, quick tips for our readers to beat the heat this summer?

White, white and more white. Shift dresses in lace, cut off shorts, white jeans, lace blouses. White can be worn from day to evening, depending how you style it.