Red Carpet Royalty
Smrutha Santhosh Becomes the First British-Indian Designer to Debut at Cannes — Bringing South Indian Heritage Centre Stage
Couture with a Conscience
Ethical design lies at the core of Smrutha Santhosh’s creative mission. As the founder of Styling by WOW Vastra, she champions cruelty-free fashion by working with Ahimsa silk, a non-violent alternative that avoids harm to silkworms. Her commitment goes beyond textiles—Smrutha collaborates with rural artisans in South India, supporting traditional craft communities and ensuring that every creation carries both artistry and purpose.
“Craftsmanship is sacred,” she says. “We honour the weavers and the women behind every stitch.”
In a world dominated by fast fashion and fleeting trends, WOW Vastra offers a refreshingly mindful alternative—luxury rooted in integrity.
A Historic Moment on the World Stage
This May, Smrutha stepped into the global spotlight as the first British-Indian designer to appear on the Cannes Film Festival red carpet. Wearing a sculptural saree in handwoven Kanchivaram Ahimsa silk, she didn’t just make an entrance—she made history.
Alongside her, British-Indian singer and actress Rachanaa Jain made waves in a “Peacock Royale” lehenga: a striking design complete with a six-metre train made from cruelty-free artificial peacock feathers and woven silk. The visual impact was dramatic, but it was the story behind the looks that truly resonated.
“I wanted every thread to tell a story—of compassion, heritage, and feminine strength,” says Smrutha.
Beyond the Red Carpet
Despite the global recognition brought by Cannes, Smrutha is keen to emphasise that WOW Vastra is not just about glamour. The brand is grounded in real life—designed for women attending temple functions, family events, weddings, or simply wanting to feel special on their birthday.
“I design for real women,” she explains. “Each piece reflects their journey, their body, and their individuality.”
From contemporary lehengas to traditional sarees, WOW Vastra celebrates the diverse identities and occasions that define modern womanhood.
More Than Just Fashion
Smrutha’s creations are deeply personal. With over 25 years in the UK, she continues to draw on her South Indian roots, ensuring her collections reflect the rituals and traditions of her heritage. From puberty ceremonies and sacred thread functions to weddings and mehndi nights, WOW Vastra garments are worn during some of life’s most significant milestones.
“My designs aren’t just for weddings—they’re for rites of passage, for joy, for memory,” she shares.
Her brand philosophy, The Complete Look, encompasses not only garments but emotion, legacy, and identity—stitched into every piece.
Dual Talents, Singular Vision
Remarkably, Smrutha juggles her design career with a full-time role as a management consultant in investment banking. It’s a duality that gives her both creative freedom and professional rigour.
“Consulting gives me structure; designing gives me soul,” she says.
This balance is reflected in her brand’s ethos: poised yet passionate, traditional yet forward-thinking, precise yet deeply personal.
Why Choose WOW Vastra?
Authentic Craftsmanship – 100% pure sarees with certificates of authenticity
Personalised Styling – One-on-one consultations tailored to you
Occasionwear for All – Bridal, ceremonial, and everyday couture
Global Access – Worldwide shipping with exceptional client service
Discover Your Complete Look
Whether you’re on the red carpet or simply celebrating a moment that matters, Styling by WOW Vastra invites you to dress with purpose—and pride. Every woman deserves to feel regal, wherever she stands.
Shop the collection: www.wowvastra.com
Book a consultation: +44 7894 533418
Follow: @stylingbywowvastra on Instagram and Facebook
“I don’t just design clothes. I design confidence, connection, and cultural pride.” — Smrutha Santhosh
