Retail
Lovebirds, Colaba
The Mumbai outpost of this Delhi label is set within the city’s oldest Methodist church, which dates from the 1890s. The white, light-filled space is reflective of Lovebird’s emphasis on clean design. You will find leather cutwork maxi dresses and cape tops with bold prints for women and screen-printed denim trousers for men. All items are handmade by craftsmen across India, using textiles such as kala cotton from Kutch and jamdhani from West Bengal.
Payal Khandwala, Kala Ghoda
Stark black walls provide a dramatic backdrop for Payal Khandwala’s womenswear. The veteran designer makes use of fabrics such as Japanese poplin, handwoven silk organza, brocade and lightweight suede to create flowing silhouettes, and her wardrobe staples work both as a set or as separates. Highlights include draped dresses, gauzy trench coats and kurta tops in solid colours or stripes.
Nappa Dori, Colaba
The leather goods at Nappa Dori feature clean lines, muted colours and vintage references. Seek out the Macaron measuring-tape holders and the Steamer trunk. If you need a little pick-me-up after a day of browsing, order an Aeropress coffee from the in-house barista.
Le Mill, Colaba
This concept store has stood the test of every SoBo (South Bombay) trendsetter’s fickle taste. Head here for labels such as Elie Saab, Rotate Birger Christensen and Loewe. The homeware selection is great too, which includes pashmina throws by Kashmiri label Andraab and hand-painted ceramics from Jaipur’s Khanoom. Unsure what to pick? Ask the in-house shoppers to lend their expertise.
Nezo, Bandra
Cobalt flooring, white walls, mustard furnishings and chrome fixtures make for a playful space in which to discover experimental collections by young Indian talent. Bobo Calcutta is making its name with psychedelic, sequinned jackets; Rosani specialises in embroidered unisex denim; Curated Curiosities creates statement acrylic earrings; and Dusala produces abstract mulberry-silk scarves.
Lune, Bandra
Founder Sreesha Shetty studied design at London’s Central Saint Martins and her eye for aesthetics is evident in the handcrafted ornaments in her shop. From chains and charms to pendants, arm cuffs and brooches, all items are crafted from either sterling silver or gold- and silver-plated brass. This is the ideal place in which to secure a pocket-sized memento.
Nilaya Anthology, Lower Parel
If you’re putting down roots in Mumbai, stop by this furniture showroom. The vault-like destination is stocked with vintage handblown glassware from Milan, painted totems by Christabel MacGreevy and ceramic art from William Byl. There are also artisanal items by Indian designers, such as bamboo candlesticks by Aku Zeliang. Put aside time to browse the artefacts at Natesan’s Antiqarts, an outpost of the legacy dealer.
Chimanlals, Fort
This storied stationery specialist is a one-stop shop for India-inspired desk items. Decorated with handprinted visuals – namely paisley motifs, caparisoned elephants and Mughal arches – each design is elegant and timeless.
Two Extra Lives, Bandra
Concept store Two Extra Lives showcases sustainable clothing and accessories from brands such as Lisbon’s Béhen, Hanoi-based Subtle Le Nguyen and Baobab from Bogotá. The owner, former fashion stylist Anchal Notani, also sources vintage pieces during her travels: you might stumble across Prada pumps, skirts by Yves Saint Laurent and Givenchy jackets.
