Style Stories capture the experiences of previous clients where they share with me their own journey with their personal style and the impact that working with me at Neelam Personal Stylist has had on them. This may include a one to one styling client, a group event or maybe a brand partnership or collaboration. Real life experiences allow you to really understand the impact of working with a personal stylist and how it could work for you too.
This month I spoke with Anisha – Jewellery Designer, Artist, Curator and founder of Anisha Parmar Studio. You might have seen me speak of Anisha before as I’ve not only been a huge fan of her work, but we were also co collaborators on our mini summer festival – Adorned Narratives. After forming a connection a few years ago on a photoshoot, this year we’ve built a really strong and deep friendship and so I was really honoured when she asked me to collaborate with her on the photoshoot for her latest collection – Shakti. Her boldest collection yet, Shakti, as she describes it, is ‘UNAPOLOGETIC, POWERFUL & FREEING’. You can’t help but let it encapsulate you! And so I was lucky to sit down with Anisha to find out more about her inspiration behind the collection.
Inspiration
When I see a designer develop collections with a deep story and message, I am fascinated by the thought process and inspiration. Anisha shared that ‘The Shakti Collection is the culmination of my journey of deep introspection, where creativity and self-discovery intertwine. It’s unlike any of my jewellery collections to date; it’s unapologetically bold, embracing the divine feminine energy and honouring Shakti, the dynamic creative force that pulses through the universe.’
These words really speak to me after the last few years of going deeper into my self and my purpose. And for me personally I can truly see this reflected in the design with the beautiful motifs and powerful use of colour pops and shapes. It is so relatable which is what makes it feel like you are connected to Anisha’s own story.
And what I love about the collection is how Anisha has ‘designed a selection of lightweight statement jewellery pieces that are united in the desire to represent the divine feminine, and easy-to-pair with both ethnic wear, Western wear or Indowestern fusion outfits.’ The versatility of the pieces means you can wear them in so many ways from your loungewear set to your more traditional eastern looks. This is one of the things that I really love about Anisha’s work. She beautifully fuses east and west into her designs giving you the opportunity to really adorn yourself with your identity. As a British born Indian I really feel this.
Timing
Anisha and I have often had deep conversations about the significance of things and timing has been one of them. That things will happen when they are meant to, all in divine timing. And so Anisha shared how ‘Launching the Shakti collection during the Hindu festival of Navratri was deeply significant because Navratri celebrates the divine feminine energy, or Shakti, in all its forms. This nine-night festival honors the goddess Durga and her manifestations, each representing strength, courage, wisdom, and creativity—the very qualities I wanted this collection to embody.’
As I have been learning more about Navratri myself, I could really see and also feel how much alignment there was between the festival and Anisha’s new collection.
‘For me, it was a way to align my personal and professional journey with the spirit of the festival, drawing inspiration from the collective energy of devotion and empowerment that Navratri symbolises. It served as a poignant reminder to connect with my own inner Shakti and share that strength through the collection with others.’
And I think this is what makes it so special. Yes this collection has been born from Anisha’s own journey, story and experiences and yet she manages to carefully share this with others to allow them to feel their own connection. For me this truly marks a special artist and designer.
Collaboration
The Shakti photoshoot was held in a studio in North London in September. And Anisha had a cast of talented collaborators to bring her vision to life. ‘I absolutely love putting together shoots! It’s one of my favourite parts of the creative process. Being in that space, curating the set, directing the art, and bringing together a team of talented creatives allows me to fully immerse myself in my element.’
Anisha shares that ‘On an APS shoot, you can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere – kindness and openness are at the heart of it. We make sure everyone is well-fed, play an amazing playlist, and create a vibe that’s all about positive energy and good times. It’s a truly uplifting experience, and the visual creativity is always a blast to explore and participate in.’ I can truly is attest to this. There was a true drive and flow of creativity on the day, room for ideas and space to create true magic!
But finding collaborators that truly understand your vision can be hard to do. ‘With this collection being so personal to me, I knew I needed a team who would honour my vision while bringing their own creative flair. Anu Shankar, our model, was my first choice as she embodies the power this collection needed, having worked with me on previous campaigns. Behind the lens was my longtime collaborator, Ofilaye, whose photography perfectly captures my vision every time.’
Having styled the looks, for me, Anu bought a power and fierceness that I knew they needed. And having worked with Ofilaye on Adorned Narratives, it was a treat to see him in action on shoot.
‘Our talented glam team, Ganga and Mira Parmar, created three striking hair and makeup looks to complete the vision. Together, this incredible team translated my moodboards into a campaign I’m incredibly proud of—bold, empowering, and true to the essence of Shakti.
It’s one of the things I love about shoots like this – collaborating with new people with different experiences, creative ideas and talented skills.
Styling
When Anisha shared her vision with me I couldn’t wait to get started on bringing the looks together.
‘Working with Neelam to style the Shakti photoshoot was a truly special experience. Having her on set felt like having both a trusted friend and a close creative ally by my side. Over the years, we’ve built a beautiful friendship and working relationship, and this shoot was a testament to how seamlessly we collaborate. Neelam brought her incredible styling expertise and paired it with an intimate understanding of my vision, curating bold, striking looks that perfectly embodied the essence of Shakti.’
During the sourcing process we were initially going to go with 2 looks, but then a bonus look came together that literally blew us away. Another thing I love with shoots like this is the freedom to take the artists vision and bring it to life through clever styling.
Anisha shared her perspective on the looks and how ‘they represented a unique facet of the collection, conveying distinct emotions and elements of feminine power.’
Look 1
‘A vibrant neon blazer paired with wide-leg black trousers and a bralette from Anthropologie embodied unapologetic strength. This look commanded attention and exuded a “don’t f*** with me” energy. It was all about standing in your power, accentuated by our boldest Shakti earrings, which added an extra layer of confidence and authority.’
Look 2
‘The stunning printed dress by Anand Kabra from Amrika balanced softness, sensuality, and strength. This look conveyed the complexity of feminine energy—graceful yet commanding. Paired with the layered Matka and Naag pieces, it reflected a harmonious duality, bringing depth to the overall aesthetic.’
Look 3
‘A modern Navratri-inspired ensemble featured a dramatic ghagra (skirt) from Monalisa Saris, a puff-sleeved top from Asos, and a pop-green leheriya chundari (scarf). This look celebrated tradition with a contemporary twist, completed by a luscious, long plait adorned with a bespoke statement hairpiece. It perfectly encapsulated the celebratory, bold, and unapologetically festive spirit of Shakti.’
Gifting
APS pieces are perfect for gifting this festive period or when you want to treat a special loved one! But how do you choose which one to go for?
Anisha suggests ‘finding something that reflects your loved one’s personality and style. Consider their preferences—do they love bold statement pieces or subtle, versatile designs? Think about the story behind each piece and how it aligns with their qualities, like strength or grace. Opt for something versatile they can wear for celebrations or everyday elegance, and trust your instincts—if a piece reminds you of them, it’s likely the perfect choice. Gifting from the Shakti collection is about sharing empowerment and love, making it a meaningful gesture this season.’
During the festive period it can become easy to get lost in the idea of gift giving and not really truly think about the person and how an item might really be something they would love in their life. I love this approach of really thinking about your loved one, their unique style and what elements of the Shakti collection might speak to them.
Future
Something I have always loved about Anisha’s work is how it is an extension of her own personal journey and connection to her heritage. And I’m always excited to see what she is working on next.
‘As much as I’d love to dive into another collection right away, this year has taught me the importance of slowing down and listening to my inner Shakti. This collection became a powerful reminder of my strength, creativity, and resilience, grounding me amidst personal and professional challenges.
As I reflect on nearly a decade of running my business, I realise how much I’ve grown—not just as a jewellery designer but as a teacher, curator, speaker, and more. While I’m deeply proud of this evolution, it’s clear I’ve been operating at full capacity.
Next year, I hope to incorporate new materials and explore a more innovative, creative approach that deepens my connection to the root of the brand. It’s about evolving my craft while staying true to the essence of Shakti. This intentional pause is allowing me the space to reset, reflect, and dive deeper into what’s truly needed for 2025, with a renewed focus on both creativity and authenticity in my work.’
Beautiful! The art of taking pause is often needed, especially in creative fields and I admire the tender love and care that Anisha is taking with her next steps!
“Working with Neelam has been an absolute pleasure. She has an incredible eye for detail and a deep understanding of my vision, which makes collaborating with her feel effortless. Her creativity and thoughtful approach to styling have elevated every project we’ve worked on together. Beyond her talent, Neelam’s warm and supportive nature makes her the perfect partner—both professionally and personally. I’m so grateful for the beautiful synergy we share.”
Anisha Parmar
A huge thank you to Anisha for taking the time to share the meaning behind the Shakti collection and for asking me to collaborate. Head over to IG to follow Anisha and to see her latest work and don’t forget to shop the Shakti collection here.
If you have a Style Story you would like to share please reach out! Or if you want to work together in a similar way make sure you book in for your Free Style Call here.
