Fashion as a Force for Change: A Conversation with Simran Lalwani, Creative Director of Ostilos
Fashion is more than just aesthetics—it is a powerful medium for self-expression, empowerment, and transformation. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we turn the spotlight on women who are reshaping industries and inspiring change. One such visionary is Simran Lalwani, Creative Director of Ostilos, a brand that seamlessly blends luxury with inclusivity and sustainability.
Simran’s journey in the fashion industry is one of resilience, innovation, and breaking stereotypes. Through Ostilos, she has not only redefined contemporary fashion but has also championed the cause of responsible design, ensuring that fashion serves a greater purpose beyond trends.
In this exclusive interview, Simran shares her insights on the role of fashion in empowering women, the challenges she has faced as a woman leader in the industry, and how Ostilos is setting new benchmarks in creative innovation.
Join us in this inspiring conversation as we explore the intersection of fashion, empowerment, and sustainability.
I. PERSONAL JOURNEY & INSPIRATION
Q. What inspired you to pursue a career in fashion, and how did your journey lead you to Ostilos?
SL: I never imagined myself as a designer, but fashion and art have always been a part of me. As a child, I was fascinated by the way my mother dressed—her unique sense of style made me curious about clothing, fabrics, and the art of styling.
Studying fashion in college sparked the idea of trying my hand at design. After internships and jobs in the industry, I knew I wanted to create something of my own. That’s how Ostilos came to life.
Q. What does fashion mean to you beyond clothing and aesthetics?
SL: It means life to me. It means expressing.
Q. Can you share a defining moment in your career that reinforced your passion for fashion and innovation?
SL: I think I have always experienced a spark towards styling and getting inspired by fashion in general, not only mine but other things, places, and designers. So there’s not one specific moment.
II. WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT & FASHION
Q. How do you see fashion as a tool for empowering women and boosting their confidence?
SL: Being a woman I understand women and their insecurities, and being a designer is a way I can play part in shaping their confidence. I think fashion is a way you can say that ‘I am happy today’ or ‘don’t mess with me today’ or ‘I feel confused today’, and that too in your own personal way.
I think it is a canvas wherein you can paint, sketch, and colour and it won’t judge you.
Q. What challenges have you faced as a woman leader in the fashion industry, and how did you overcome them?
SL: Honestly, I haven’t yet. Time is changing and I am happy about it. My team, my mentor, everyone has been so supportive and uplifting in so many ways. Of course there are ups and downs when it comes to the fashion industry but you go through it and it seems worth it somehow.
Q. In what ways does Ostilos promote inclusivity and body positivity through its designs?
SL: Ostilos thrives on comfort. Like I said, being a woman I know how insecurity feels. The garments we craft and design are comfortable above all else. Our way to promote inclusivity is that all our garments are open to style and still provide comfort without making you feel exhausted. I myself make sure of that. For example, the kind of sleeves we opt for in corsets are for people who feel insecure about their shoulders.
Q. What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the fashion industry?
SL: Very simple; don’t give up. No dream is too big. Work hard, believe in that work, and never be afraid to show your own personal style.
III. SUSTAINABILITY & INNOVATION
Q. How does Ostilos incorporate sustainability and ethical practices into its design and production process?
SL: We make sure nothing goes to waste. Our fabrics are gentle on the skin and chosen with India’s weather in mind. Every piece is made to order, so we don’t overproduce or stock up on excess garments.
Q. What steps do you think the fashion industry as a whole should take to become more sustainable?
SL: I think managing waste can be a great start and then gradually not opting for fabrics that create pollution or waste.
Q. How do you balance creativity with commercial viability while maintaining Ostilos’ luxury brand ethos?
SL: At Ostilos, creativity and commercial viability go hand in hand. We design with intention—every piece reflects a refined aesthetic while ensuring it’s wearable and versatile. Rather than chasing fleeting trends, we focus on timeless designs that resonate with individuals who appreciate fashion beyond the surface. Our approach to luxury isn’t about excess but about thoughtful details, premium fabrics, and expert craftsmanship. By maintaining this balance, we create pieces that feel exclusive yet seamlessly fit into real wardrobes, reinforcing Ostilos as a brand that stands for both artistry and purpose.
IV. THE FUTURE OF FASHION
Q. How do you see fashion evolving in the next five years, particularly in terms of inclusivity and sustainability?
SL: Oh, so much more. People are experimenting, embracing fashion in new ways, and I love it. There’s a growing understanding of clean fabrics and minimizing waste—both from brands and consumers. But honestly, it all comes down to the awareness people have as audiences. The more they know, the better they choose.
Q. What trends or innovations excite you the most in today’s fashion landscape?
SL: I’m not a trend person per-say but I think I really am into how women are embracing their feminine side when it comes to fashion. They are opting for maxi skirts, chic pairs of pants, and a good pair of buckle shoes. I’m really digging that. Corsets are my favorite, so the whole ‘coming back’ of corsets is my favourite trend.
Q. With Ostilos catering to both men and women, how do you approach design differently for each segment?
SL: Honestly, I don’t really. I think some men are becoming quite experimentative with their individual styles and I aim to create something they’d like to get. Keeping it classy and different from what men have been always served with when it comes to fashion is what works for me. Whereas for women, they’re super choosy, I too am; so I have to make sure to give them something that is unique. One thing that remains constant is the femininity of any of my women’s garments.
Q. Can you share any upcoming collections or projects that Ostilos is working on?
SL: Our latest collection was based on our signature detail; which is ‘smocking’. I can’t really share what’s coming next but it will definitely be something you can wear on holidays or summers in general.
V. PERSONAL REFLECTIONS & LEGACY
Q. What legacy do you hope to leave in the fashion industry?
SL: I think that I aim to be a designer who really understands women. I love crafting garments for women and making them feel their best in what they’re wearing. So, yes that.
Q. If you could describe Ostilos in three words, what would they be and why?
SL: Mindful. Classy. Art-inspired.
Q. What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your journey so far?
SL: Whatever life throws at you, you WILL get out of it if you really believe in your ethos and yourself.
Simran Lalwani’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of fashion. Through Ostilos, she is not only creating luxurious, trendsetting designs but also championing a future where fashion is ethical, inclusive, and empowering.
Her insights remind us that clothing is more than just fabric—it is a statement of strength, individuality, and purpose. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we are inspired by leaders like Simran, who are reshaping industries and setting new standards for creativity and responsibility.
Thank you, Simran, for sharing your journey and vision with us. Your work continues to inspire and redefine the future of fashion.
#FashionForChange #SustainableStyle #LuxuryWithPurpose #WomenInFashion #EthicalFashion #InclusivityInFashion #Ostilos #SimranLalwani #EmpowermentThroughFashion #InternationalWomensDay
Poetry Hub 
Hello. Thanks for visiting. I’d love to hear your thoughts! What resonated with you in this piece? Drop a comment below and let’s start a conversation.