The grand opening of the MNR Design Studio on London’s prestigious Regent Street this past weekend has marked a pivotal moment in fashion history, not just for the brand itself, but for South Asian fashion’s presence on the global stage. To celebrate this achievement, we sat down with Mohsin Naveed Ranjha, the creative mastermind behind the label, his brother Abubakar Naveed Ranjha, the studio’s strategic leader, and Asad Malik, a key collaborator who joined the brothers in helping to bring this vision to life.
From Lahore to London: A Dream Realized
“Opening our doors on Regent Street is surreal,” said Mohsin, in conversation with Diva. His excitement and pride was palpable. “We’ve poured our hearts and souls into creating a brand that celebrates South Asian heritage with a contemporary twist. To see it resonate on this international platform is incredibly humbling.” He added, “the launch was all that we dreamt of and more. To have London turn up in huge numbers, to have the brilliant actor Sonam Bajwa fly in for us. We could not be more grateful.”
Sonam Bajwa herself also remarked “I have been an admirer of Mohsin’s work for sometime now, and have worn his outfits at some of my events, his vision for design and craftsmanship is exemplary. Mohsin’s journey is so much more than fashion, it’s a representation of culture and community which inspires and uplifts. His presence in London symbolises the global recognition of South Asian creativity and fashion”
Diva also caught up with Abubakar Naveed Ranjha, Managing Director of the company, echoed his brother’s sentiment. “This wouldn’t have been possible without a tremendous team effort,” he emphasized. “The strategic guidance of Asad Malik and the support of fashion accelerator Cresset were instrumental in making this dream a reality.”
He also shared, “At MNR, we have so many plans for global expansion. We believe there is still so much for the world to see of South Asian fashion. With the London store, we are only just getting started.”
A Cultural Touchstone: More Than Just Fashion
Stepping into the MNR Design Studio is an immersive experience that transcends mere shopping. “We envision the studio as a cultural touchstone,” explained Cresset Founder and CEO Asad Malik. “It’s a space where visitors can discover the rich tapestry of South Asian textiles, craftsmanship, and design sensibilities.”
He elaborated, “The MNR Design Studio goal is to offer a comprehensive experience. From ready-to-wear pieces to exclusive, limited-edition collections and bespoke bridal services, in order to cater to a diverse clientele seeking a unique perspective on fashion.”
A Global Stage Beckons
The MNR brand has already garnered a loyal following, with their designs gracing celebrities like Hollywood’s Tan France and Bollywood A-listers such as Ranveer Singh and Sara Ali Khan. “Witnessing our creations travel the globe and adorn renowned personalities is incredibly gratifying,” Mohsin admitted.
Abubakar also said, “This expansion into London paves the way for even greater visibility. We’re excited to share the stories woven into every MNR garment with a wider audience.”
A Journey into South Asian Fashion
The MNR Design Studio isn’t just a retail space; it’s a portal into the vibrant world of South Asian fashion. “Our signature style is a beautiful blend of contemporary trends and timeless South Asian heritage,” Mohsin explained. “We believe fashion has the power to tell stories, and each MNR piece embodies a narrative waiting to be unraveled.”
As the interview concluded, the collective passion and dedication radiating from Mohsin, Abubakar and Asad was palpable. The MNR Design Studio stands as a testament to their vision, marking a significant milestone not just for the brand, but for South Asian fashion’s ascent onto the global stage.