Exclusive: Anamika Khanna creates a milestone collection of denim totes with Starbucks

For Khanna, this collaboration was both about the spirit of Mumbai and the growing ubiquity of Starbucks, but also about a creative process that resonated with her emotionally.

“The best thing about working on a collaboration like this is that it challenges you. I can step out of my comfort zone, beyond the conventional space of fashion, to venture into something completely different. For me, everything is an emotional journey and if I can’t resonate with something, regardless of the rewards, I simply won’t do it. Fittingly, Khanna’s far-from-minimal style perfectly channels an infectious energy, a burst of impeccable design transformed into slice-of-life collectibles, meant to be worn, withered and generously valued. Thanks to Khanna’s favorite almond milk cappuccino or Starbucks’ mercurial local presence, this pairing of seemingly distant worlds seems entirely natural.

Before the launch of Anamika Khanna + Starbucks, Vogue India talks to the designer about the joyful process of capturing the spirit of Mumbai.

Vogue India: What were the initial ideas that gave rise to this collaboration?

Anamika Khanna: The idea was based on the milestone of Starbucks’ 100th store in Mumbai. It’s about connecting around a shared belief to tell stories, create memories, and connect in ways that reach the heart. It wasn’t just about collaboration or creating a product. Rather, it was a conversation that delved into our strengths and what we stand for to arrive at an idea that aptly celebrated Mumbai, its hyperlocal energy and layered localities to offer everyone a piece of the city.

Ritik Mehta