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Interview with Priyanka Gadia

Priyanka Gadia
Priyanka Gadia
Founder
Appapop
Appapop

Our focus is on creating high-quality items that last
Appapop is a fashion brand that embodies fun, individuality, and sustainability. With a focus on creating trendy, vibrant, and high-quality apparel, Appapop empowers wearers to express their unique style. Combining bold designs with eco-conscious materials, the India-based brand offers a fresh perspective on fashion. Backed by a growing community of loyal customers and influential endorsements, Appapop is leading the charge towards a more sustainable future. In a chat with Fibre2Fashion, Founder Priyanka Gadia discusses creating collections that are designed to have a timeless quality.

The fashion industry is rapidly shifting towards sustainability. How do you think this trend will impact future design practices and consumer behaviour?

Sustainability is no longer a trend—it is the future of fashion. As more consumersbecome conscious of their environmental impact, they are seeking brands that align with their values. This shift will push designers and brands to innovate, using eco-friendly materials and adopting ethical practices. I believe this will lead to a more thoughtful approach to fashion, with an emphasis on quality and longevity rather than disposable trends.

Appapop has gained significant attention for its unique blend of style and sustainability. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the brand’s aesthetic and how has it evolved over time?

The inspiration behind Appapop’s aesthetic comes from my deep-rooted love for art, design, and the idea of creating something meaningful. The brand reflects bold colours, expressive patterns, and a quirky yet elegant style. Over the years, it has evolved by incorporating sustainability at its core without compromising on creativity. We have stayed ahead by merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary designs, ensuring that each piece is both trendy and timeless. My travels and constant immersion in culture, street style, and current global events have played a huge role in shaping Appapop’s identity.

How do you strike a balance between creating eye-catching, trend-setting pieces while staying true to sustainability?

Balancing style and sustainability is a conscious effort. For Appapop, sustainability Is not just a buzzword but a core principle. While we embrace bold and trendy designs, we ensure that each piece is made from eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton and recycled polyester. Our focus is on creating high-quality items that last, rather than contributing to the disposable nature of fast fashion. We also believe that sustainability and luxury are not mutually exclusive—our goal is to prove that ethical fashion can be both chic and forward-thinking.

‘Upcycled denim jackets’ have been one of your most-loved creations. Can you tell us about the creative process behind them and how you ensure each piece tells its own story?

Our upcycled denim jackets are truly special because each one is unique. The process begins by sourcing denim that would otherwise go to waste, and from there, we deconstruct and reimagine the material into something entirely new. We use hand-painted designs, embroidery, and embellishments to add a personal touch.
Each jacket is a canvas that tells its own story, influenced by contemporary art and street culture. It is a labour of love, where sustainability meets creativity, and every piece is infused with a sense of individuality.

How important is storytelling in building a brand’s identity in today’s fashion landscape, and what are some ways brands can better connect with their audience through narratives?

Storytelling is at the heart of building a brand’s identity. It is not just about selling products—it is about sharing the values, culture, and vision behind the brand. At Appapop, every collection tells a story, whether it is through our choice of materials, the inspiration behind the designs, or the message we want to convey. Brands can connect better with their audience by being authentic, and transparent, and sharing their journey in a way that resonates with people on a personal level.

In terms of sourcing materials, how does Appapop ensure the quality and uniqueness of its fabrics and prints?

We work with trusted suppliers who share our values of sustainability and quality. Our fabrics are often organic or recycled, and we carefully select prints that align with our brand’s vibrant, expressive aesthetic. We believe that the uniqueness of Appapop comes not just from the designs but also from the high-quality materials we use. We are constantly experimenting with new textiles and techniques to ensure that every collection feels fresh and exclusive while adhering to ethical standards.

The ‘Celebrity Closet’ and ‘Influencer Closet’ concepts are very exciting. How do you decide which celebrity looks to include, and what is the response like from your customers?

The ‘Celebrity Closet’ and ‘Influencer Closet’ were born out of a desire to bring fans closer to the fashion choices of their favourite celebrities. We carefully select looks based on trends, celebrity endorsements, and what resonates with our audience. We focus on outfits that are both iconic and wearable. The response has been incredible, with customers loving the idea of owning pieces that reflect the style of their favourite celebrities. It is exciting to see the connection between fashion, culture, and celebrity influence playing out in real-time.

You have garnered attention from A-list celebrities. How has celebrity endorsement impacted your brand?

Celebrity endorsements have been a game-changer for Appapop. When celebrities like Deepika Padukone or Alia Bhatt wear our designs, it brings the brand into the spotlight. It not only boosts visibility but also lends credibility to our mission of merging sustainability with high fashion. Celebrity endorsements help us reach a broader audience and show that sustainable fashion can be glamorous and aspirational.

What challenges do you foresee for fashion brands in maintaining authenticity while keeping up with fast-evolving trends and consumer demands?

One of the biggest challenges is staying true to your brand’s core values while remaining relevant in an industry that moves at lightning speed. The key is finding a balance between evolving with the trends and maintaining authenticity. At Appapop, we prioritise our brand ethos—sustainability, creativity, and quality—while adapting to changing consumer demands. Staying connected to our audience and being transparent about our practices helps us navigate these challenges effectively.

Fashion trends can change rapidly, especially in the era of fast fashion. How does Appapop ensure that its designs remain timeless yet forward-thinking?

Fashion is ever-evolving, and while we pay attention to trends, we always infuse our own identity into the designs. Our collections are designed to have a timeless quality—classic silhouettes combined with bold, modern elements. By focusing on craftsmanship, quality, and sustainability, we ensure that our pieces stand the test of time. At the same time, we remain adaptable, keeping an eye on emerging trends and ensuring our collections reflect the current fashion landscape.

How does Appapop navigate the balance between creating luxury fashion pieces and maintaining accessibility for a broader audience?

Appapop believes that luxury should not come at the cost of inclusivity. While our designs have a high-end appeal, we strive to make them accessible by offering a range of price points without compromising on quality or sustainability. Our goal is to democratise luxury fashion so that more people can experience high-quality,eco-conscious clothing. We are constantly innovating to create pieces that feel luxurious but are priced in a way that appeals to a wider demographic.

Appapop offers both men’s and women’s fashion. How do you approach designing for different demographics, and what differences or similarities do you see in their fashion preferences?

When designing for men and women, we aim to maintain our brand’s aesthetic while addressing the distinct preferences of each demographic. Women’s fashion tends to be more expressive, with bold prints and colours, while men’s fashion leans towards subtle sophistication. However, what ties both together is a shared appreciation for quality, comfort, and sustainability. We are finding that both demographics are increasingly seeking fashion that is not only stylish but also reflects their values.

What role do you believe inclusivity and diversity play in shaping the identity of modern fashion brands, and how can the industry improve in this regard?

Inclusivity and diversity are essential in today’s fashion landscape. A brand’s identity is stronger when it represents a wide range of voices and perspectives. At Appapop, we are committed to creating fashion that speaks to people from all walks of life. The industry still has room to grow, and I believe the next step is not only embracing diversity in campaigns but also ensuring inclusivity at every stage—from design to production and marketing.

Looking ahead, what are your plans for expanding the brand? Can you give us a glimpse into any upcoming collections, projects, or expansions?

We have exciting plans on the horizon. Our upcoming collections will continue to focus on sustainability, with an emphasis on innovative materials and cutting-edge designs. We are also exploring new markets, expanding our reach globally, and working on collaborations that align with our values.

Finally, with the rise of digital fashion and virtual try-ons, how do you see technology shaping the future of retail and the shopping experience?

Technology is revolutionising fashion in exciting ways. Virtual try-ons, augmented reality, and digital fashion are creating new opportunities for brands to engage with customers. It allows for a more personalised and interactive shopping experience. At Appapop, we are exploring how these technologies can enhance the customer journey, making fashion more accessible while reducing waste. The future will see a blend of physical and digital fashion experiences, offering consumers a seamless and immersive way to shop.
Interviewer: Shilpi Panjabi
Published on: 02/12/2024

DISCLAIMER: All views and opinions expressed in this column are solely of the interviewee, and they do not reflect in any way the opinion of Fibre2Fashion.com.