creator-in-focus
creator-in-focus
PRAGYA BERIWALA
“For me, inspiration can come from anywhere—literally anywhere! Right now, I’m working on a styling series based on tea cups. It might sound unexpected, but that’s how I see fashion, it’s all about seeing beauty in the world around you”
Pragya has an eye for discovering inspiration in the everyday mundanity of life. “For me, inspiration can come from anywhere—literally anywhere! Right now, I’m working on a styling series based on tea cups. It might sound unexpected, but that’s how I see fashion, it’s all about seeing beauty in the world around you” says the 25 year old content creator. Pragya Beriwala is more than just a fashion content creator. Her audience is privy to a melange of talents – fashion styling, design, creative direction, and storytelling – all emanating from one woman. Scrolling through her feed is like taking a walk through a sartorial art gallery, it's a kind of holistic fashion experience that makes you want to stand, analyze and decipher the artist's emotions and thoughts that shaped the creation. Her 30 second reels are akin to 30-second short films where fashion is the main character. So, we caught up with the creator to talk more about what goes on behind the scenes of these videos and how living in Milan and Paris shaped the way she approached her fashion identity. But first, let's rewind a little. “I come from a family that values both traditional and contemporary forms of art, which inspired me to explore various creative avenues”, she says reminiscing about her childhood in Vrindavan where she was always surrounded by a rich cultural environment, sparking her tryst with creativity and design. “Interestingly, my first exposure to fashion was not through runways or designers, it was as a child, dressing up idols of deities. That experience sparked my curiosity and creativity, planting the seed for my journey into fashion. It was where my love for clothing as a form of expression first began, albeit in a different context. At the end of the day, I believe that humans are drawn to fashion and art that tells a story, especially if that story is rooted in the artist's own experiences and heritage. I feel that when I style and create content, I’m not just showcasing clothes, I’m sharing a piece of who I am. The connection I have with fashion is deeply personal, and I hope that it resonates with others who can see the authenticity and story behind it”, she says.
Pragya has not been unfamiliar with recognition for her talent as she received accolades such as Best Design Collection and Best Use of Traditional Skills in Contemporary Styling by the Ministry of Textiles while she was pursuing her undergraduate degree from the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Kolkata. Her academic trajectory is a testament to her dedication to learn fashion, from the roots. After NIFT, she moved to Milan to complete a postgraduate degree in Fashion Styling & Visual Merchandising at Domus Academy, NABA (Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti). Pragya’s quest to delve deeper in fashion and learn the art from ground up doesn’t end there. She has also completed a specialized course and earned a certificate from LVMH, furthering her basal understanding of the global fashion ecosystem.
In an age of ephemeral fashion trends that are manufactured targeting our decrepit attention spans, individual and personal style sensibilities are also labelled accordingly. You’re a ‘clean girl’ today and ‘mob wife’ tomorrow. But Pragya doesn’t believe in this.
“I’d say I don’t fit into any singular aesthetic. Initially, I experimented with various trends to understand what worked best for me. Fashion was a playground for exploring different styles and seeing where I felt most confident. However, over time and after enough experimentation, I’ve found my own space, and I now prefer to focus on what truly resonates with me rather than fitting into a predefined box. For me, fashion isn’t about being part of a trend cycle or labelling myself as anything specific, it’s about wearing what feels authentic, comfortable, and empowering. I choose clothes that make me feel like myself, clothes that speak to my identity, my culture, my heritage, and my history. To me, fashion is far more than following fleeting trends. It’s about creating a lasting connection with what I wear. I don’t want to be limited by categories like "minimalist" or "maximalist." I believe that style transcends trends and should reflect a deeper, more personal narrative. Clothes, to me, should serve the body and the soul; they should evoke emotion, memories, and stories. They should empower the wearer and make them feel truly seen”, and we couldn’t agree more.
“Ultimately, my style is an expression of my true self. It’s about authenticity and finding that harmony between what I wear and who I am. It’s not about being on the cutting edge of every new trend, it's about making fashion feel timeless and meaningful, while honouring the essence of me”, she adds.
Given how detail oriented her videos are, it comes as no surprise that she has a ritual before the camera starts rolling, “I always make sure I’m organised and clear about my vision. I take a moment to gather my thoughts, go over the concept, and ensure everything from the wardrobe to the details is ready. I believe being prepared helps me stay focused and ensures that I can execute my ideas smoothly. I try to imagine the mood, the aesthetic, and the story I want to tell with the visuals. This helps me stay grounded and focused on the bigger picture, rather than getting caught up in the small details.
Another crucial part of my process is creating a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere on set or when I’m shooting. I always create a playlist tailored to the mood or theme of the content. It’s amazing how music can influence my energy effectively.I also like to stay fluid and open to inspiration in the moment. Sometimes, the magic happens when you least expect it, and I always stay ready to pivot or try something new. It’s important to not just stick to the plan but also let intuition guide me when the vibe shifts. Overall, it’s about striking a balance between being organised and leaving room for creativity to flow naturally. When everything is in place, I feel ready to capture the best shot and tell the story I have in mind.”
Pragya’s inimitable sense of style is backed by her knack for shopping underrated labels. “In the Indian homegrown fashion landscape, there are numerous underrated brands that deserve more recognition. Some of my personal favorites include Cord, Qouad by Ikshit Pandey, Drugstore Cowboy, The Rok, and Codebrown. Each of these brands brings a unique perspective to fashion, blending contemporary aesthetics with traditional influences. Additionally, I'm a passionate thrifter and love discovering unique pieces that tell a story. Some of my go-to thrift stores on Instagram include Mta.mrphc, Vintoclique, Ish Museum, and 777closet.”
Given her advocacy for thrifting, Pragya’s consideration for upholding sustainability in fashion is palpable. “Sustainability and ethical fashion have always been core values in my work, deeply influencing both my fashion choices and the content I create. My final year graduation project, which took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, was a turning point in shaping how I view fashion. I designed my final collection as a tribute to the emotional connection we have with our roots. The collection blended nostalgia with progressive culture, using sustainable dyeing techniques, zero- waste clothing, and a focus on craftsmanship and authenticity.
In today’s world, sustainability is no longer just a trend—it’s essential. I believe fashion must be useful, beautiful, and meaningful, which is why I prioritise conscious choices in everything I do. Whether it’s incorporating sustainable practices in my designs or curating content that highlights these values, I’m committed to the idea that fashion should reflect a better future for both people and the planet. In all aspects of my work, I aim to merge beauty with responsibility, ensuring that my creations reflect both my personal values and a broader vision for a more sustainable, ethical fashion industry”, says Pragya.
One might argue that content creation, especially in the fashion landscape, is a saturated space. There are so many creators, so many styles, and so many interpretations of what is ‘cool’ and ‘trendy’. The audience is spoiled for choice. However, what often goes unnoticed is the immense effort every single creator puts into their work. We get the lowdown of the challenges faced while creating content and how Pragya manages to overcome them. Here’s what she has to say, “Creating content comes with its share of challenges that aren’t always visible. One of the toughest aspects for me is staying consistent. There’s constant pressure to produce fresh content, but I’ve learned that consistency doesn’t mean perfection, it’s about finding a rhythm and sticking with it. Positive feedback from my audience helps fuel my creativity and keeps me motivated.
Another struggle is the line between inspiration and imitation. It’s frustrating when others copy your work without credit, but I’ve learned to focus on my unique voice and use it as motivation to push my creativity further.
Ultimately, I’ve learned to embrace feedback, both positive and constructive, as it helps me grow and motivates me to keep creating. Surrounding myself with a supportive network of people keeps me going, and I constantly remind myself that creativity is a journey. Despite the challenges, it’s about staying true to my unique voice and using every obstacle as fuel to create something meaningful.”
To conclude, Pragya has some words of advice for those starting out. “Something I keep telling myself, and I hope it helps you too, is that it doesn’t matter how many followers you have, what matters is whether your content adds value to both your audience and you. Authenticity will always shine through. Don’t forget to have fun and allow yourself to make mistakes, because that’s how you grow. Embrace the process, stay true to your voice, and enjoy the journey. Focus on creating content that resonates with your values, personal story, and creativity. Stay consistent, be open to growth and MAKE mistakes!”
Check out @pragyaberiwala on Instagram
PRAGYA BERIWALA
PRAGYA BERIWALA
PRAGYA BERIWALA
“For me, inspiration can come from anywhere—literally anywhere! Right now, I’m working on a styling series based on tea cups. It might sound unexpected, but that’s how I see fashion, it’s all about seeing beauty in the world around you”
Pragya has an eye for discovering inspiration in the everyday mundanity of life. “For me, inspiration can come from anywhere—literally anywhere! Right now, I’m working on a styling series based on tea cups. It might sound unexpected, but that’s how I see fashion, it’s all about seeing beauty in the world around you” says the 25 year old content creator. Pragya Beriwala is more than just a fashion content creator. Her audience is privy to a melange of talents – fashion styling, design, creative direction, and storytelling – all emanating from one woman. Scrolling through her feed is like taking a walk through a sartorial art gallery, it's a kind of holistic fashion experience that makes you want to stand, analyze and decipher the artist's emotions and thoughts that shaped the creation. Her 30 second reels are akin to 30-second short films where fashion is the main character. So, we caught up with the creator to talk more about what goes on behind the scenes of these videos and how living in Milan and Paris shaped the way she approached her fashion identity. But first, let's rewind a little. “I come from a family that values both traditional and contemporary forms of art, which inspired me to explore various creative avenues”, she says reminiscing about her childhood in Vrindavan where she was always surrounded by a rich cultural environment, sparking her tryst with creativity and design. “Interestingly, my first exposure to fashion was not through runways or designers, it was as a child, dressing up idols of deities. That experience sparked my curiosity and creativity, planting the seed for my journey into fashion. It was where my love for clothing as a form of expression first began, albeit in a different context. At the end of the day, I believe that humans are drawn to fashion and art that tells a story, especially if that story is rooted in the artist's own experiences and heritage. I feel that when I style and create content, I’m not just showcasing clothes, I’m sharing a piece of who I am. The connection I have with fashion is deeply personal, and I hope that it resonates with others who can see the authenticity and story behind it”, she says.
Pragya has not been unfamiliar with recognition for her talent as she received accolades such as Best Design Collection and Best Use of Traditional Skills in Contemporary Styling by the Ministry of Textiles while she was pursuing her undergraduate degree from the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Kolkata. Her academic trajectory is a testament to her dedication to learn fashion, from the roots. After NIFT, she moved to Milan to complete a postgraduate degree in Fashion Styling & Visual Merchandising at Domus Academy, NABA (Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti). Pragya’s quest to delve deeper in fashion and learn the art from ground up doesn’t end there. She has also completed a specialized course and earned a certificate from LVMH, furthering her basal understanding of the global fashion ecosystem.
In an age of ephemeral fashion trends that are manufactured targeting our decrepit attention spans, individual and personal style sensibilities are also labelled accordingly. You’re a ‘clean girl’ today and ‘mob wife’ tomorrow. But Pragya doesn’t believe in this.
“I’d say I don’t fit into any singular aesthetic. Initially, I experimented with various trends to understand what worked best for me. Fashion was a playground for exploring different styles and seeing where I felt most confident. However, over time and after enough experimentation, I’ve found my own space, and I now prefer to focus on what truly resonates with me rather than fitting into a predefined box. For me, fashion isn’t about being part of a trend cycle or labelling myself as anything specific, it’s about wearing what feels authentic, comfortable, and empowering. I choose clothes that make me feel like myself, clothes that speak to my identity, my culture, my heritage, and my history. To me, fashion is far more than following fleeting trends. It’s about creating a lasting connection with what I wear. I don’t want to be limited by categories like "minimalist" or "maximalist." I believe that style transcends trends and should reflect a deeper, more personal narrative. Clothes, to me, should serve the body and the soul; they should evoke emotion, memories, and stories. They should empower the wearer and make them feel truly seen”, and we couldn’t agree more.
“Ultimately, my style is an expression of my true self. It’s about authenticity and finding that harmony between what I wear and who I am. It’s not about being on the cutting edge of every new trend, it's about making fashion feel timeless and meaningful, while honouring the essence of me”, she adds.
Given how detail oriented her videos are, it comes as no surprise that she has a ritual before the camera starts rolling, “I always make sure I’m organised and clear about my vision. I take a moment to gather my thoughts, go over the concept, and ensure everything from the wardrobe to the details is ready. I believe being prepared helps me stay focused and ensures that I can execute my ideas smoothly. I try to imagine the mood, the aesthetic, and the story I want to tell with the visuals. This helps me stay grounded and focused on the bigger picture, rather than getting caught up in the small details.
Another crucial part of my process is creating a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere on set or when I’m shooting. I always create a playlist tailored to the mood or theme of the content. It’s amazing how music can influence my energy effectively.I also like to stay fluid and open to inspiration in the moment. Sometimes, the magic happens when you least expect it, and I always stay ready to pivot or try something new. It’s important to not just stick to the plan but also let intuition guide me when the vibe shifts. Overall, it’s about striking a balance between being organised and leaving room for creativity to flow naturally. When everything is in place, I feel ready to capture the best shot and tell the story I have in mind.”
Pragya’s inimitable sense of style is backed by her knack for shopping underrated labels. “In the Indian homegrown fashion landscape, there are numerous underrated brands that deserve more recognition. Some of my personal favorites include Cord, Qouad by Ikshit Pandey, Drugstore Cowboy, The Rok, and Codebrown. Each of these brands brings a unique perspective to fashion, blending contemporary aesthetics with traditional influences. Additionally, I'm a passionate thrifter and love discovering unique pieces that tell a story. Some of my go-to thrift stores on Instagram include Mta.mrphc, Vintoclique, Ish Museum, and 777closet.”
Given her advocacy for thrifting, Pragya’s consideration for upholding sustainability in fashion is palpable. “Sustainability and ethical fashion have always been core values in my work, deeply influencing both my fashion choices and the content I create. My final year graduation project, which took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, was a turning point in shaping how I view fashion. I designed my final collection as a tribute to the emotional connection we have with our roots. The collection blended nostalgia with progressive culture, using sustainable dyeing techniques, zero- waste clothing, and a focus on craftsmanship and authenticity.
In today’s world, sustainability is no longer just a trend—it’s essential. I believe fashion must be useful, beautiful, and meaningful, which is why I prioritise conscious choices in everything I do. Whether it’s incorporating sustainable practices in my designs or curating content that highlights these values, I’m committed to the idea that fashion should reflect a better future for both people and the planet. In all aspects of my work, I aim to merge beauty with responsibility, ensuring that my creations reflect both my personal values and a broader vision for a more sustainable, ethical fashion industry”, says Pragya.
One might argue that content creation, especially in the fashion landscape, is a saturated space. There are so many creators, so many styles, and so many interpretations of what is ‘cool’ and ‘trendy’. The audience is spoiled for choice. However, what often goes unnoticed is the immense effort every single creator puts into their work. We get the lowdown of the challenges faced while creating content and how Pragya manages to overcome them. Here’s what she has to say, “Creating content comes with its share of challenges that aren’t always visible. One of the toughest aspects for me is staying consistent. There’s constant pressure to produce fresh content, but I’ve learned that consistency doesn’t mean perfection, it’s about finding a rhythm and sticking with it. Positive feedback from my audience helps fuel my creativity and keeps me motivated.
Another struggle is the line between inspiration and imitation. It’s frustrating when others copy your work without credit, but I’ve learned to focus on my unique voice and use it as motivation to push my creativity further.
Ultimately, I’ve learned to embrace feedback, both positive and constructive, as it helps me grow and motivates me to keep creating. Surrounding myself with a supportive network of people keeps me going, and I constantly remind myself that creativity is a journey. Despite the challenges, it’s about staying true to my unique voice and using every obstacle as fuel to create something meaningful.”
To conclude, Pragya has some words of advice for those starting out. “Something I keep telling myself, and I hope it helps you too, is that it doesn’t matter how many followers you have, what matters is whether your content adds value to both your audience and you. Authenticity will always shine through. Don’t forget to have fun and allow yourself to make mistakes, because that’s how you grow. Embrace the process, stay true to your voice, and enjoy the journey. Focus on creating content that resonates with your values, personal story, and creativity. Stay consistent, be open to growth and MAKE mistakes!”
Check out @pragyaberiwala on Instagram
Underrated?
Underrated?
Underrated?
Underrated and undeniably cool?