Not one or two, but wearing multiple hats with seamless finesse, Masaba Gupta stands as a luminary of our times, a virtuoso of design, an entrepreneur, and an actor. Masaba, recognized as the Queen of Prints, embarked on her influential journey in the world of Indian fashion subsequent to her graduation from SNDT Women’s University. At a mere 19 years old, her foray into the limelight occurred with a notable debut at Lakmé Fashion Week, establishing a foothold in the industry. The brand that bears her name, House of Masaba, is distinguished by a recognizable design language that challenges conventions, seamlessly merging inventive silhouettes with an air of sophistication.
The expansive portfolio curated by Masaba spans diverse clothing lines, ranging from solutions for Indian weddings to high-end resort wear, all distinctly infused with the brand’s characteristic hues, motifs, and aesthetics. Notably, her designs have graced the figures of Bollywood luminaries such as Sonam Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan, solidifying her reputation as a designer of choice for the celebrity circuit.
Masaba’s influence extends beyond the realms of design, as she advocates for sustainability within the fashion industry, championing ethical and eco-friendly practices. This commitment further extends to her involvement in promoting body positivity, evident in her designs tailored for women of varying body shapes and sizes. In essence, her impact reverberates as a symbol of both inclusivity and sustainability within the industry.
The recognition garnered by Masaba is not solely a result of her design acumen but is also reflective of her contributions to the industry. Awards such as the Most Promising Designer at Lakme Fashion Week in 2010 and her inclusion among India’s 25 most influential women by India Today in 2014 underscore her pivotal role in pushing the boundaries and setting new standards for success.
A milestone in her career was achieved in 2012 when Masaba became the first Indian designer to execute a fashion show via Instagram, showcasing her innovative approach not only to design but also to technology. Further accolades followed suit when she was honoured with the Young Creative Fashion Entrepreneur Award by the British Council in the same year.
In 2023, Masaba strategically directed her focus towards scaling her ventures, encompassing the apparel line House of Masaba and the cosmetics label LoveChild. This move showcased not only her entrepreneurial acumen but also a strategic vision that identified Tier II and III cities as potential growth drivers. The significant acquisition of a 51% stake in House of Masaba by Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail in 2022 serves as a testament to the brand’s demonstrated success and its potential trajectory.
Expanding the global footprint of House of Masaba, Masaba’s brand marked its presence with the opening of its inaugural international store in New York City in 2022, affirming the global appeal of her designs. Simultaneously, Masaba diversified her interests by investing in Food Square, a luxury gourmet retail brand. These ventures underscore her astute business sense and a discerning eye for opportunities that extend beyond the conventional boundaries of the fashion industry.
Masaba’s narrative extends beyond professional success; it is a testament to her enduring influence across various spheres. Her extensive tenure as the Founder and Creative Head of House of Masaba has moulded her into a dynamic force within the fashion industry. Additional evidence of her versatility is seen in her past role as the Fashion Director at Satya Paul, where she left an indelible mark.
A plethora of awards, including the Fashion Entrepreneur of the Year by Grazia India in 2019 and recognition by Forbes India’s 30 Under 30 in 2017, underscores Gupta’s enduring impact and relevance within the industry. Her journey can be characterized as a tapestry woven with threads of innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to redefining the boundaries of contemporary fashion.
As Masaba persists in trailblazing the world of fashion, her story becomes an inspiration for aspiring designers, entrepreneurs, and individuals striving to make a mark in their respective fields. The Queen of Prints reigns not just on the runway but also in the hearts of those who appreciate creativity, inclusivity, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence.
