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Fashion Entrepreneur: Swati Kapoor
Line: Bollywood Inspired Couture
Reza Shariffi for SWATI Couture
Site: www.swati.us

Shoot Location: Studio 2147X

Finding the Limelight

People come to America from all parts of the world in the hopes of finding the “American Dream.” To many, that might be freedom, prosperity or happiness. But to some, it means stepping into the powerful beam of America’s limelight.

Bringing Bollywood and Hollywood to the Silicon Valley, fashion entrepreneur Swati Kapoor has synergized the best in both worlds by intertwining the captivating aspects of Indian fashion into Western wardrobe. Her line, SWATI Couture, first broke onto the fashion scene six years ago. However, few would guess that this goddess-inspired designer is a product of the dot-com bust.

Helium Magazine: What does fashion mean to you?

Swati Kapoor: Fashion means a woman adoring her inner goddess and inner beauty.

HM: How and when did SWATI Couture get started?

SK: Six years ago after the dot-com bust I decided to change gears from my graphic design career and turn into a fashion entrepreneur. It started purely from my love for this form of art in India. I wanted to make a difference and make a line of clothing stemming from this form of art.

HM: Who do you imagine wearing SWATI Couture?

SK: The elite fashion conscious. Women who want to look unique and who really enjoy sparkle, color and dressing up.

HM: How does SWATI Couture represent San Jose and the Bay Area?

SK: The people living here are the inspiration for the styles. People here need multiple uses from a garment. Women need looks that they can wear to the office and in the evening.

HM: What was your inspiration for this line?

SK: This line is called “Bollywood Inspired Couture” designed by Reza Shariffi for SWATI Couture. It is inspired by Bollywood, with a high fashion/glamour feel too.

HM: Where can people purchase your clothing?

SK: From my studio, located at 2321 Farmcrest Street in Milpitas.

HM: What is your ultimate goal for SWATI Couture?

SK: To be a brand that is history in the making; an amazing place for Indian fashion in the Western wardrobe.

Silicon Valley may seem like a far cry from our glamorous neighbor to the south, but this new formula for success just might change that. With aspirations to launch a goddess-themed fashion line in 2010, Swati Kapoor is on the fast track to the Red Carpet. Although, she might have it embroidered with gold silk before she gets there.

Interview by Jasmine Duarte

STAFF

Sebastian Vido – Photographer
Jack Husting – Retouching & Photographer
Samiha Mujeeb – Model
Esther Au – Makeup & Hair Styling
Jennifer Giles – Fashion Aide
Jennifer Elias – Fashion Aide
Brian Agee – Photography Assistant