Varija Bajaj, a prominent figure in India’s fashion and social innovation space, stands as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and inclusivity. As the founder of Varija Lifestyles, O&Y, Lela, Varija Home, Varija Life, and THE CAREER TALKS, Varija has successfully integrated her artistic vision with her passion for social causes, particularly her strong advocacy for the differently-abled community. Recognized among the Top 100 Innovators in the World in Disability Awareness by the World CSR Congress, she has carved out a niche for herself, not only in fashion but in transforming societal perceptions of inclusivity and diversity. Varija’s career spans multiple industries, from fashion design and interior décor to disability advocacy and education, making her a versatile and impactful leader.
The Driving Force Behind Varija Lifestyles – Innovating Through Fashion
At the heart of Varija Bajaj’s success is Varija Lifestyles, a dynamic conglomerate that reflects her deep understanding of Indian culture, modern fashion, and the needs of today’s diverse consumer. Varija Lifestyles encapsulates her brands, which focus on everything from workwear for women to bridal couture and even bespoke interior design.
O&Y (Office & You) – Reinventing Workwear for Indian Women
One of Varija Bajaj’s standout ventures is O&Y (Office & You), a workwear brand specifically designed for Indian women. Understanding the unique blend of cultural expectations, body types, skin tones, and professional environments that Indian women navigate, O&Y has positioned itself as a brand that caters to these nuanced needs. Varija describes her designs as a fusion of modernity with Indian ethos, creating workwear that not only empowers women but also acknowledges their multifaceted roles in society.
O&Y’s Three Signature Collections:
- Corporate: Aimed at women in boardrooms and executive roles, this collection merges comfort with style, allowing women to embrace their femininity while maintaining a professional look.
- Feet on Street (FOS): Inspired by the real-life challenges of women on the go, this line blends Western and ethnic wear, offering functional and fashionable options for women who need to navigate public spaces and extreme weather while maintaining a professional appearance.
- Socials: Targeting formal events and award functions, Socials offers stylish, elegant attire that bridges the gap between formal and fashionable. This collection ensures that women can confidently showcase their personal style at high-profile events without compromising professionalism.
Lela – Fusion Fashion with a Free Spirit
Lela, another brand under the Varija Lifestyles umbrella, is a prêt (ready-to-wear) ethnic fusion label that celebrates the vibrant spirit of Indian tradition fused with contemporary styles. With Lela, Varija Bajaj brings forth a Bohemian aesthetic that plays with colors, silhouettes, and ornamentation, offering a truly unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. The brand has garnered attention for its lively, creative use of vibrant hues and unconventional designs, allowing women to embrace a carefree yet stylish look.
Varija Design Studio – Elevating Bridal Fashion
Varija Design Studio focuses on the luxury bridal segment, where Varija’s expertise in figure correction and skin-tone balancing shines through. Known for creating bespoke bridal wear, Varija Design Studio offers intricate, customized designs that reflect the bride’s personality while honoring Indian wedding traditions. Varija’s meticulous attention to detail and understanding of Indian bridal wear has made her a sought-after name in the bridal fashion industry.
Varija Home – Bespoke Interiors for Art Lovers
In addition to her fashion ventures, Varija extends her creative genius to the world of interior design with Varija Home. Catering to the bespoke needs of clients who value art and design, Varija Home offers personalized interior décor solutions that transform living spaces into artistic expressions. From architectural designs to intricate décor elements, Varija Home caters to trendsetters who want their living spaces to reflect their individuality and style.
Varija Life – Fostering Inclusion Through Disability Advocacy
While Varija Bajaj’s fashion brands continue to set trends, her initiative, Varija Life, stands out as a testament to her commitment to social causes, particularly disability inclusion. Varija Life is dedicated to breaking down barriers for the differently-abled by recognizing their abilities rather than focusing on their disabilities. Through various campaigns, research, and advocacy efforts, Varija Life aims to reshape how society views people with disabilities.
BE THE CHANGE Campaign – A Revolution for an Inclusive Society
One of Varija Life’s flagship initiatives is the BE THE CHANGE campaign, a nationwide movement that seeks to promote awareness, acceptance, and action for an inclusive society. Through collaborations with schools, colleges, and various forums, the campaign addresses the need for better infrastructure, support systems, and a conducive environment for the physically and mentally challenged. BE THE CHANGE encourages individuals and organizations to take proactive steps towards creating a more inclusive society where differently-abled people can lead self-reliant lives.
Pioneering Fashion Research for Differently-Abled Individuals
In an industry-first initiative, Varija Life has launched extensive research into the clothing needs of the differently-abled. Fashion, as Varija sees it, is not just a form of art but a tool for solving practical challenges. By collaborating with multiple fashion colleges, this initiative seeks to develop adaptive clothing that enhances the independence and confidence of differently-abled individuals. The research aims to create apparel that addresses mobility and accessibility challenges while remaining stylish and comfortable.
National Ability Summit – Uniting Stakeholders for Change
The National Ability Summit, organized by Varija Life, brings together stakeholders from government agencies, health institutions, educational organizations, and private entities to discuss and share best practices for creating an inclusive society. This platform provides a space for collaboration, where ideas and strategies can be shared to improve the lives of people with disabilities. By bringing together experts from various sectors, the National Ability Summit aims to drive long-term change and create a more inclusive society.
THE CAREER TALKS – Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry
Varija’s passion for education and mentorship is evident in her initiative, THE CAREER TALKS, a platform that connects students, startups, and industry veterans. Through this platform, Varija enables the sharing of knowledge, expertise, and advice from experienced professionals, fostering mutual growth and development in the industry. The platform offers students access to mentorship from industry leaders, allowing them to gain valuable insights and guidance as they embark on their careers. At the same time, startups and companies benefit from fresh, objective perspectives provided by students.
Recognitions and Awards – A Testament to Varija’s Impact
Varija Bajaj’s contributions to fashion, entrepreneurship, and disability advocacy have been widely recognized. Her achievements in building an inclusive society and driving innovation have earned her numerous awards and accolades, including:
- Delhi Gaurav Award for her contribution to the fashion industry.
- VLCC Women Achievers Award for excellence in fashion.
- Build India Award as a Woman Entrepreneur.
- DLA Woman of the Year Award for her work in fashion and social causes.
- Top 100 Innovators in the World for Disability Awareness by the World CSR Congress.
- Economic Times Labels Award for her brand Office & You.
Varija’s success as an entrepreneur has also made her a case study at ISB Hyderabad, one of India’s most prestigious business schools. Her work in mentoring students and startups has seen her become an advisor to over 25 colleges across India, including institutions like BD Somani in Mumbai, FMS in Delhi, and Amity University.
Conclusion – Varija Bajaj’s Vision for the Future
Varija Bajaj’s journey is a shining example of how creativity and social responsibility can go hand-in-hand. Through her diverse ventures in fashion, interior design, and social initiatives, she continues to inspire others to push boundaries, embrace inclusivity, and BE THE CHANGE they wish to see in society. With a strong focus on empowering women, advocating for the differently-abled, and mentoring the next generation of professionals, Varija Bajaj’s legacy is one of innovation, resilience, and compassion.
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