How a Bihar designer turned his mother’s favourite colour into a global fashion label

In 2021, fashion designer Aman Verma founded Shwetanga, a Delhi-based label that has turned his mother's favorite color, white, into a global fashion statement. The color carries significant historical and cultural weight for Verma, as it was a sari in white that he rarely saw his mother wear due to societal norms in India. These memories have shaped the foundation of Shwetanga's creations, which are recognized for their ivory ensembles, textured drapes, and understated craftsmanship.

Verma's journey began in Bihar, where he grew up and where the idea for the label was born. Despite expectations to pursue engineering or medicine, Verma discovered his passion for design at the age of 13 and dedicated himself to fashion. He left Bihar to attend the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, where he faced cultural challenges but remained focused on academics.

After graduation, Verma worked for established designers and eventually launched Shwetanga, drawing inspiration from his personal experiences and memories. The pandemic took a toll on Verma, as he lost both his mother to COVID-19 and his father shortly after, but these tragedies ultimately pushed him to pursue his dream of creating Shwetanga, a label that celebrates the beauty of white in fashion.