Deepa Gurnani’s purpose is to preserve and refine the storied craft of Indian hand embroidery. In doing so, we strive to enrich the livelihood of our Karigars by adopting fair trade practices and ensuring safe working conditions. We strive to produce the finest hand crafted accessories using responsible and ethical methods. We believe the Earth is sacred and will implement responsible methods to preserve and protect the environment. Altruistic endeavors are at the forefront of our mission and we continue to commit a portion of our profits to charitable causes. We aim to contribute to a better world while safeguarding the cultural heritage of Indian embroidery.
The Deepa Gurnani brand was conceived in the dreams and passions of husband and wife partnership, Deepa and Jay Lakhani.
Whilst studying fashion at London’s prestigious Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, Deepa beaded couture pieces for Alexander McQueen, Emanuel Ungaro, Fendi and Marjan Pejoski. Working closely with these designers not only enabled Deepa to understand couture standards of quality and finish, but also compelled her to experiment with new and unusual beading and embroidery techniques. Combining this experience with her own distinct style and sensibility, inspired her to create her own line.
Jay Lakhani, a Jewelry Designer, started his training at the Fashion Institute of Technology NYC and progressed to work with some of the finest names in the fine jewelry industry. He trained under head designers from Tiffany and Bvlgari, where he refined his eye for detail and luxury. In addition to his love of fine jewelry, Jay was always drawn to fashion. He dreamed of combining the art of fine jewelry with fashion accessories, to create easy-to-wear works of art. He noticed a trend for black and basic-silhouettes in the marketplace, which he saw as blank canvasses for exquisite embroidered accessories.
In 2005, Jay Lakhani and Deepa Gurnani came together and became husband and wife. After their marriage, the two designers collaborated and launched their label “Deepa Gurnani”. The duo combined their talents to create a line of unique and distinctive embroidered accessories, which continues to amaze, and inspire fans, season after season. Their first line was launched at Henri Bendel’s, NYC in November 2006 and subsequently sold in various stores across the globe.
After 15 years in business, the brand has grown from strength to strength in a constantly changing industry. Customer expectations of exquisite craftsmanship and luxury is ever in demand, however in a challenging world economy there is a growing need to satisfy a more price-conscious customer.
In 2016, Deepa Gurnani launched two separate ranges to satisfy the needs of our global customers. 'Deepa Gurnani ' remains a luxury brand, focused on limited edition trend-led capsule collections, made with Swarovski crystals and semi-precious stones. The second brand 'Deepa by Deepa Gurnani' is a more accessible collection, creating beautiful and easy-to- wear pieces for all occasions.
2016 also marked Deepa Gurnani's exclusive collaboration with designer and artist, Erté. The collection consists of styles inspired by Erté's delicate and glamorous art deco look. All Erté styles are hand embroidered using Deepa Gurnani's finest techniques.
Through today, the highest quality standards prevail in all collections with no compromise on the quality and the ethics of our workmanship.
