It’s been a long but an interesting journey for accessory designer Malini Agarwalla. The finance graduate admits the past 10 years have been a learning curve. “From having no background in designing to launching my label, Malaga, the last decade has been a roller-coaster ride. I have enjoyed every bit of it,” says the designer who specialises in handcrafted bags, belts, footwear and fashion jewellery.

Malini Agarwalla and (below) her new collection at her recently-launched store at Hughes Road

Her designs boast of rich embellishments wherein precious and semi-precious stones, swarovski crystals, embroidery, beadwork and zardosi (gold threadwork) are interwoven with fibre, leather, silk, brocade and velvet. Agarwalla is known for her interesting array of formal and casual line of accessories for women who have both traditional and contemporary tastes. Her handbags, potlis, jholas and clutches in jewel tones are kitschy as they have traditional Indian prints with funky embroidery and mirror work.