Exclusive: "Fashion Is About Constantly Learning and Unlearning," Says Miss Diva Fashion Designer 2025 Aishwarya V

22-year-old Aishwarya V is a NIFT Gandhinagar graduate from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, who sees fashion as a powerful form of self-expression. Recently sashed Miss Diva Fashion Designer 2025, we spoke to Aishwarya about her journey, what she loves and hates about fashion, her favourite designer Sabyasachi, and more!

At just 22, what's one belief about fashion you've already unlearned?

At one point, I believed fashion was a fixed set of trends and ideas, something we defined and followed. But what I've unlearned is that fashion isn't constant at all. It's continuously evolving, and what works for one garment or one design may not work for another. Fashion is something you're always learning, and at the same time, unlearning, because what we know today won't always hold true tomorrow.

From NIFT Gandhinagar to this crown, what moment made you feel, “Okay, this is my path”?

Fashion has always felt like my path, even though Miss Diva was never part of my immediate plan. The moment it truly clicked for me was while making my garment for the competition. The process was intense, exhausting, and demanding, but at the same time deeply fulfilling. Being immersed in that creative process, pushing myself, and seeing my ideas come to life made me realise how aligned I am with this work. That's when I knew this is what I want to pursue, and more than that, this is something I genuinely wanted to win.

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One emotion you love designing around?

Rebellion and freedom, challenging the social norms.

One word your designs would use to describe you?

Unapologetic.

What advice would you give to young designers afraid to be too bold?

If you want your work to be bold, you have to be bold yourself. Don't be afraid to take risks, challenge norms, or put a piece of yourself into your designs. True creativity comes from trusting your instincts, embracing your uniqueness, and having the courage to stand by your vision, even if it feels intimidating. The world only remembers those who dare to be different, so don't shrink from your boldness.

Your favourite fashion designer?

It would definitely be Sabyasachi. I deeply admire his storytelling, his vision, and the way he translates Indian heritage into powerful silhouettes and designs you wouldn't normally imagine. The emotional depth and craftsmanship in his work truly stand out.

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One thing you love and hate about fashion today?

One thing I love about fashion today is how experimental people are becoming, mixing corsets with Indian textiles, pairing Indian jewellery with Western clothing, and styling themselves in ways that truly reflect their personality. What I hate is fast fashion and how social media drives trends that people blindly follow, making everyone blend in instead of standing out.

What was the feeling like when your name was announced as the winner?

Honestly, I didn't expect it at all. The first feeling I had was that I couldn't believe it. Since my parents weren't there, the first thing I did was step outside, take my trophy, and call them on video. I just cried, sharing that unbelievable moment with them. I felt completely overwhelmed, but at the same time, incredibly grateful for everything that led me there.