Those of you who know my blogging tendencies, know that I wouldn’t pass up an opportunity to post about our favorite New Yorker! Waris Ahluwalia’s recent presence in Vogue (hat tip: Anandica) comes about as a contender for the prestigious CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund award. The award helps emerging American designers pursue their design and business plans through financial support and professional mentoring. Waris Ahluwalia is one of only ten designers nominated for this award for his jewelry business, House of Waris. He states that his inspirations “have always been love and history. But I don’t claim to understand either of those.”
House of Waris
Posted by Sundari in Art on 10 27th, 2009 | 9 responses
Those of you who know my blogging tendencies, know that I wouldn’t pass up an opportunity to post about our favorite New Yorker! Waris Ahluwalia’s recent presence in Vogue (hat tip: Anandica) comes about as a contender for the prestigious CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund award. The award helps emerging American designers pursue their design and business plans through financial support and professional mentoring. Waris Ahluwalia is one of only ten designers nominated for this award for his jewelry business, House of Waris. He states that his inspirations “have always been love and history. But I don’t claim to understand either of those.”[Waris Ahluwalia] moved with his family from Amritsar, Punjab to Brooklyn, NY at the age of 5. He thought of becoming a doctor, a lawyer, risked one advertising interview, attempted to make a music magazine, got involved with a friend’s NGO for increasing HIV/ AIDS awareness in South Asia and found himself back in New York, immersed in the art life of the city. He then has a guy in New York make some jewellery for him, escapes the cold of the city for LA, helps a friend set-up a restaurant and one day, wanders into ultra-luxe boutique Maxfield’s where the owners spot his rings, immediately place an order, they sell out and House of Waris is born. [link]
I find Waris’ dedication in pursuit of his passion to be incredibly inspiring. It’s an example of how every young Sikh should pursue that which incites them to make a positive difference in the world. It just goes to show that our potential can be so much greater than we often wish to acknowledge. His confidence, in his work and appearance, should not be understated. In fact, in one of his interviews, he had this advice to share:
“To all young Sikhs, I can share a couple of things from my life experience: Follow your heart. And, if you are not willing to take any risks, nothing is going to happen.” [link]
Oh, Waris, how i adore thee… Below you can view a short video of how his beautiful jewelry is made in Jaipur!
I somehow happened to land on this blog and read about Waris. As a young sikh, a hopeful fashion designer, a sardar – reading about Waris is motivating for me. My parents have no clue about my desire to go into fashion (I’m currently enrolled as pre-med) but after reading this post, I need to start living more honestly.
Randomness of it all met Waris at the first Jakara conference. Its kinda crazy to think this unassuming person will one day be something of a role model in your community. Goes to show you that its just a matter of believing in yourself and your passion.
Now back to your boring and thankless jobs people
Many people will comment suggesting that Waris's career choice goes against the anti-materialistic nature of Sikhi. I say, who cares for this brief moment.
lol
Deep, I agree. Let's ignore that while we applaud Reema's post.
Deep, I agree. Let's ignore that and applaud this post.
"Who cares for this brief moment? WHAT?
Where does Guru says one cannot look good and be fashionable.
Who told you Sikhs cannot be materialistic. Only that you are not suppose to drink, smoke etc. the vices.
Please do your home work before you post.
Great article – Waris brother you inspire countless young Sikh's… you're the man
Anyone here got contacts with Waris Singh? I really REALLY want to meet him!
Thank you for this great piece Sundari. I hope it will inspire other young Sikhs to pursue a path they are passionate about.