'Good Design Is Innovation And Functional Aesthetics’

What is your definition of luxury? 

Luxury for me has to be a seamless blend of craftsman- ship, functionality and design. 

Millennials and G Next look for convenience, purpose and transparency in a brand. They believe these are more important than aesthetics. Your views?

Very rarely does a brand or product sell only because it looks good or is aesthetically pleasing and has no other value like functionality, sustainability, purpose or convenience. A good product always has a good combination of it all.

What according to you, defines good design?

Good Design means innovation and functional aesthetics.

A product you feel signifies good design?

I feel one can see a lot of great design in the consumer technology space, especially with mobile phones. They seem to be pushing the frontiers of design, making our everyday products aesthetically pleasing, at the same time never losing sight of convenience.

What are your views on the importance of the digital medium in luxury and the rise of influencers?

The digital world is very much a part of our everyday lives today, hence it’s even more important for the growth of the luxury market, especially in India. It helps us communicate much more easily, at the same time allowing for a greater reach. Influencers are a key part of the digital ecosystem and some of them do a great job in showcasing products in the way consumers would appreciate them. 

What according to you are the upcoming trends in the luxury industry?

Online will be the way forward for luxury and one will see many luxury players diving deep into the digital market. Sustainability and transparency are also something most luxury brands are taking into consideration. We have seen a lot of brands announcing their recent commitment towards more ethical practices.

What are the key trends of the Indian and the global luxury market?

Globally, luxury consumers are getting younger and also more diverse. In India the luxury market has been performing well due to a higher number of luxury brands entering the country.