London Portraits: Supriya Lele

London Portraits: Supriya Lele

In conversation with: Supriya Lele

Supriya Lele is a British fashion designer who founded her eponymous label in 2017. Her work is rooted in her cross-cultural heritage and the youthful rebellion of her late 90s teen years.

One of the most influential voices of the moment in British fashion, Supriya's first standalone show took place in 2019, and her first campaign was released in the same month. You can shop the current collection via Net-a-Porter.

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The Otiumberg sisters sit down with our community of women in London and beyond who are pioneers in their unique fields, to ask a series of meaningful and honest questions about life, career and the women that shaped them.

Supriya Lele wearing the Large Staple Hoop paired with our Locked Necklace.

Running your own brand can be hectic and full on, we know this only too well. How do you take time out to find calm and inspiration?

Absolutely it’s a complex and challenging job! I love spending time with close friends and walking Stevie. Those are the moments in which I feel most grounded.

We’ve been surrounded by an influential female collective growing up as three sisters. Who has been the most influential woman in your life?

It has to be my mum, she’s my eternal source of inspiration and the best role model.

What is the ethos of your collection and approach to fashion?

My work and process is deeply rooted in exploring my heritage through a contemporary and modern lens. I love working in a natural way, 3D is very important to my process, so draping directly on the body. I also love the research phase, building and conceptualising the woman each season.

Reflecting on my cultural upbringing, playing with colours and textures is often where we begin. 

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"My most treasured piece of jewellery is a ruby ring I inherited from my late father. It was made in India and has a very handmade look to it."

Let’s talk about the highs and lows. What has been your biggest failure and success so far, and what did you learn from both?

So far I like to think that every achievement is a success! I can’t necessarily say that there has been one specific stand alone success... but so many collective ones. Regarding failures…also so many...running a small business is tough, and there are always highs and lows throughout. I feel as though each day you are learning and the trick is to be patient and kind with yourself throughout!

Jewellery serves as a daily form of self expression, a celebration of life’s milestones, and even a way to remember loved ones. What is your most treasured piece of jewellery and why?

My most treasured piece of jewellery is a Ruby ring I inherited from my late father. It was made in India and has a very hand made look to it. It’s my most treasured piece. 

Please share your favourite secret spot in London - a special gem others might not know about.

A tough one! So many— but I love the India Club restaurant at the strand. It’s very chic!

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