The Maharani of Jewels | A.R. Designers By Arefa Merchant
India seems to be making headlines everywhere, whether its beauty, Bollywood or designs, Houston is a melting pot of culturally rich diverse ethnicities, making it a wonderful place for fine cuisine and upcoming designers. The Museum of Fine Arts Houston hosted their Annual Grand Ball with the theme ‘India’ and many were flaunting jewels from India, I was complimented and spotted wearing elegant yet grand pieces from this local gem A.R. Designers By Arefa Merchant.
Reminiscent of the Mughal period, Arefa’s jewelry has the grandeur and richness of a maharani, yet simple and feminine. Her line is very unique, intricate mixed with sophistication. Born and raised in the glamorous city of Mumbai, India, she has a Masters Degree in Economics and having worked with many big financial institutions Arefa always knew the value of education, business and entrepreneurship.
“Jewelry is something I always loved and possessed in abundance. My grandfather was a collector of precious jewels and my family is very passionate about finer and intricate jewelry and of course now being married to a diamond merchant it all runs in the family,” chuckles Arefa.
In today’s fashion and trends we see a lot of influence from Indian fashion. Bright colors, ornate designs and big chandelier earrings are so in style among the mainstream American styles. Every piece of jewelry at A.R. Designers is flamboyant and mysterious as a princess of India. Each piece small or big stands out and can be adorned for both casual and very formal events.
Talking about latest South Asian fashion and trends, Arefa informs that the style is more towards simplicity, yet ornate designs. “We are now opting for lighter shades like grey, brown with a punch of bright colors”.
Keeping her clients needs in mind, with an uncompromising eye for quality and inspiration from the Mughal era, Arefa Merchant of A.R. Designers envisions in her future of having a store in Paris on the Champs Élysée.