Mrunal’s Boutique is a multi-designer store and surface design atelier located in the heart of Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. The boutique, established in 2007, is the cornerstone of Oman’s budding fashion scene. With the growing demand for well-crafted, sustainably-sourced and unique clothing, MB houses more than 15 designers along with a team of highly skilled craftsmen. Swathi Suresh speaks exclusively to Mrunal Khimji on her sustainable and ethical fashion journey.
Could you please tell us about the inception of your bespoke Atelier?
I launched Mrunal’s Boutique in 2007 because I felt there was a void in the representation of Indian textiles and craftsmanship in Oman. Our atelier is founded on the principles of adopting ethical practices, being mindful, supporting hand craftmanship and showcasing the rich heritage of the Indian handloom industry. We take immense pride in the fact that we are still one of the most unique business models in Oman.
In a world of ever-growing fast fashion, how is Mrunal’s Boutique a game changer?
Mrunal’s Boutique, since its inception, has been a purveyor of slow fashion. Quality matters to us, not quantity. Hand craftsmanship is one of the highlights of our atelier. Our artisans put in many hours every day to create intricate and captivating hand embroidery. In addition, we are a bespoke atelier where clients can get an outfit made within their budget, without compromising on quality.
We are committed to promoting hand craftsmanship and showcasing clothes made from ethically sourced, natural fabrics. As a multi-designer boutique, I try to showcase mostly designers or labels that align with similar ideologies.
What is your mantra in building a bespoke fashion brand?
There is no such thing as a mantra for a fashion brand. One has to do what one feels is right and find the formula for running a business successfully along the way. For us, our mantra is to work hard, work with our clients to make their sartorial dreams come true as well as be transparent with them. I believe in understanding clients’ requirements, educating them, and providing guidance when required.
Could you shed some light on how you are supporting up-and-coming fashion designers and their work through Mrunal’s Boutique?
As a multi-designer store, we have been committed to showcasing upcoming and promising designers from the beginning. India is a powerhouse of talent across multiple fields. The fashion industry is no different. When I opened the boutique in 2007, I decided to host trunk shows of upcoming Indian designers. I have always wanted to showcase the craftsmanship and design prowess of India. The boutique provided the perfect platform to do so.
As I mentioned earlier, we partner with fashion brands from India that align with the principles we follow. These principles primarily are sustainability, adopting ethical practices, use of natural fabrics, and celebrating craftsmanship.
Mrunal Khimji – Founder
How do you balance maintaining exclusivity while growing your business?
Exclusivity comes when you do something, which is bespokely made because it is made specially for you, and it is not repeated unless a client asks us. For example, you have a bridal client who will say, today we have a bridal shower, or we have a baby shower, or Our color theme is so and so, and our, you know, inspiration. Or We sisters would like to dress together or be friends and would like to have something in common.
Apart from that, we don’t repeat our designs, and I think exclusive and bespoke a good hand in hand together. You can’t have either or if you do, they don’t come together in harmony.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start a luxury boutique?
Have a strong finance plan in place. Be sincere with your clients. Be ethical in your business. Showcase the work being done by your team because there is no such thing as a ‘one-man show.’ Do not compromise on quality for profits. Be true to the work you do and show up in your authentic self.
