We keep telling you the stories of fashionistas from places like Paris, London, Delhi, and Mumbai. However, closer home, we have Hurratul Maleka Taj, founder of fashion hubs   and  and women networking site . 

The twenty-something fashion blogger from Udaipur spoke to JWB giving us some insight on her style, what trends she loves, and how she manages it all.

Introduction

My name is Hurratul which is an Arabic name. Hur means fairy and Maleka means queen. So, my name interprets as the queen of fairies. Also, Hurratul Maleka was the first queen of Yemen. My dreams are few, but I make sure I fulfill all of them. I believe in taking action, and this is something I have learned from my friend and business partner, Vinav Bhanawat. Apart from this, I enjoy swimming, yoga, dancing and painting.

Journey from Udaipur to Metro Cities

Although, I am based in Udaipur, travels keep me busy and joyful. When I began this journey, it’s wasn’t really a cake walk. There are always people to pull you down, you see. Sadly, my father’s side of the family isn’t pleased with me entering the field of fashion. But I am glad I have a full support of my parents, and they even follow my blogs and totally love them! Having said that, I think I am getting stronger every passing day.

Inspiration behind founding three companies

Both my parents are working, so when I decided to become an entrepreneur, everyone in the family was taken aback. My source of inspiration is my maternal grandmother who is the President of two women organizations.

Secondly, Vinav is the one who mentored me throughout. Also, Saurabh Uboweja, CEO Brands of Desire, and Rahul Narvekar, Founder The India Network, have been a tremendous support.

Managing funds

When I started Territory Of Fashion, we did other jobs to collect money. This included designing uniforms for Hotel staff and events. On the other hand, we collaborated with clothing and accessories brands for the blog. Talking about Chics Connect, we did crowd funding on KETTO to raise 1,14,000 INR.

Today, my websites are doing well making me financially independent. Also, I have done brand endorsements for labels like Westside, Zivame, CupCakes, Closet, Zestyle, etc.

Breaking stereotypes

I belong to the Bohra community. It is true that not many girls in our religion choose this path. I call myself a Passionate Rebel. Girls in my family and also from tier two and three cities have told me that I am an inspiration for them. This is a beautiful feeling.

Fashion for me is…

Comfort. Currently, I am obsessing over the off-shoulders, ripped denim and block heels accessorized with silver jewelry.

Future

My future is all about spreading smiles (through fashion)! Also, I want to see Chics Connect becoming a large community of women across the globe one day. A community with no boundary, and meeting similar minded women is easier.

(Pictures are Hurratul’s own)