ESHA: After working for years in the fast-paced fashion industry, I felt the need to pause, slow down, and really listen to my instincts. In 2019, I began conceptualizing what would become ESHA SONI. I’ve always been drawn to sculptural, organic, and biomorphic forms—shapes that feel timeless yet modern—and those became the starting point for my designs.
ESHA: After working for years in the fast-paced fashion industry, I felt the need to pause, slow down, and really listen to my instincts. In 2019, I began conceptualizing what would become ESHA SONI. I’ve always been drawn to sculptural, organic, and biomorphic forms—shapes that feel timeless yet modern—and those became the starting point for my designs.
ESHA: Those experiences taught me to approach design as something poetic. Mumbai instilled a love of vibrancy and craft in me, New York sharpened my discipline and drive, and Florence deepened my appreciation for history and artistry. Together, they shaped how I think about creating pieces with a strong point of view and a clear design DNA.
ESHA: Those experiences taught me to approach design as something poetic. Mumbai instilled a love of vibrancy and craft in me, New York sharpened my discipline and drive, and Florence deepened my appreciation for history and artistry. Together, they shaped how I think about creating pieces with a strong point of view and a clear design DNA.
Esha is photographed wearing our Donnybrook Denim Maxi Skirt and the Eileen Relaxed Button-Up Shirt in Black Famous Denim.
F&E: You’ve had quite a career leading iconic fashion brands—what motivated you to take the leap to become an entrepreneur?
ESHA: I always knew I would launch my own line—it was simply a matter of when. After nearly two decades working with American powerhouses like Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, and Proenza Schouler, I felt ready. I had developed the experience and clarity of vision to create a brand that truly reflected my own perspective.
F&E: Looking back on your own experience, what advice would you share with young women starting out in entrepreneurship?
ESHA: Learn every aspect of your business, even the parts that don’t come naturally, like finance (for me). Be confident and don’t second-guess yourself. Work hard and go after what you want with conviction. As an entrepreneur, if you can run your business as a one-woman show, then when you do hire, you’ll know exactly who and what you need to grow your company in the right way.
ESHA: My style is usually a play on proportions—clean, sculptural, and easy. I almost always reach for a button-up; a Frank & Eileen cotton or linen shirt is a staple in my wardrobe. I keep accessories simple but meaningful, often with silver bangles or a pair of gold studs.
ESHA: My style is usually a play on proportions—clean, sculptural, and easy. I almost always reach for a button-up; a Frank & Eileen cotton or linen shirt is a staple in my wardrobe. I keep accessories simple but meaningful, often with silver bangles or a pair of gold studs.
Esha is photographed wearing our Mary Classic Shirtdress in White Famous Denim and the Montecito Sweater in Marine.
ESHA: From the very beginning, my vision was crystal clear. I wanted to build a brand that created lasting value while giving back. My commitment to sustainability shows up in producing pieces that are meant to be cherished forever, not discarded, and in collaborating with highly skilled artisans to preserve their craft. Equally important to me was giving back to my roots and ensuring that a percentage of profits goes toward supporting education for underprivileged children in India. That mission has been woven into the DNA of the brand from day one.
ESHA: From the very beginning, my vision was crystal clear. I wanted to build a brand that created lasting value while giving back. My commitment to sustainability shows up in producing pieces that are meant to be cherished forever, not discarded, and in collaborating with highly skilled artisans to preserve their craft. Equally important to me was giving back to my roots and ensuring that a percentage of profits goes toward supporting education for underprivileged children in India. That mission has been woven into the DNA of the brand from day one.
F&E: We admire your shared commitment to being a force for good through business. Tell us more about the foundation you started through your brand with ESHA SONI—what led you to starting the foundation?
ESHA: Growing up in Mumbai, I witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by children without access to education. When I launched ESHA SONI, I knew I wanted the brand to be about more than just beautiful design, it had to stand for something greater. The foundation was born from that desire: to use my platform to give back to the place I come from by supporting educational opportunities for underprivileged children in India. It’s a way of ensuring that every bag we create has a deeper purpose behind it.
F&E: As a woman who not only makes beautiful designs, but has an equally beautiful mission, what’s next for the brand? Any new ideas you can’t stop thinking about?
ESHA: The brand is still in its early stages, so my focus right now is on building community, laying a strong foundation, and creating pieces that feel timeless and iconic. There’s so much more to do, and I’m excited about expanding the collection while staying true to the ethos of thoughtful design and meaningful impact.
Thanks for cozying up for 'a cuppa with' Esha!
To keep up with Esha and her brand:
eshasoni.com
@eshasoni_official
@eshasoni
Photographed by: Ana Gambuto
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