Celebrate Mumbai's Koli community by indulging in themed jewellery by this city-based indie platform

A Koli fisherwoman with a (right) shell pendant

Fashion was never meant to be minimalist. In India, where personal style is often defined by colour and craftsmanship, maximalism has long been woven into everyday expression. Designers Rashi N Gori and Jui Mahalley have embraced that spirit through We Desi, an independent jewellery label inspired by Mumbai.

A woman crafts jewellery at the store (right) the fishing net-inspired golden-chain skirt. Pics courtesy/@we desi

The 21-year-olds, from Malad and Borivli respectively, recently photographed Koli women at Colaba Koliwada as part of their research, drawing inspiration from the city's fishing communities and coastal heritage. Launched just a month ago, the indie platform emerged from the duo's shared passion for jewellery and design.

Jui Mahalley and Rashi N Gori

"Till date, we have released a couple of jewellery designs, offering an early glimpse into our aesthetic and approach. One of them is a gold-toned chain skirt adorned with pearls, coins and crystal charms, inspired by the silhouette of a fisherman's net. The piece draws from Mumbai's fishing community and its rich coastal heritage. We've reimagined a familiar motif through contemporary design. We are also exploring adaptations of the concept, including silver cuffs and a phone pop socket," Gori and Mahalley share with us.

Fish-inspired cuff

While this collection is small in scale, the duo is busy developing new prototypes, and plan to expand beyond jewellery into lifestyle and homeware products in the near future.

Log on to @calluswedesi
Call 7971182920
Cost Rs 1500 onwards