The Founders
ARCHANA SANKAR
Archana is the multifaceted creative force behind HOUSE OF ARCHANA SANKAR. With a rich background in fashion, Archana brings together her expertise as a Designer, Stylist, Image Consultant and Entrepreneur.
Certified from NIFT, Mumbai and formerly the Head of Fashion Designing at St. Teresa's College, Kerala, Archana's academic expertise and industry experience seamlessly merged to give birth to the brand.
With a vision to revolutionize wearable art, Archana combines her skills to craft unique, hand-painted, and hand-printed masterpieces that empower individuals to express themselves through fashion.
MOHAMMED KHAIS
Khais is the creative counterpart and co-founder of HOUSE OF ARCHANA SANKAR.
While his professional background is in Aeronautical Engineering, his true passions lie in art, music, culinary art and creativity. Khais brings a unique perspective to the brand, leveraging his keen eye for detail,
appreciation for colors and textures, skills in videography and editing.
Although not a traditional fashion or design expert, Khais’s fresh perspective and creative instincts make him an invaluable partner in crafting innovative designs and prints. His blogging skills and technical expertise also enables the brand to produce engaging social media content, showcasing the beauty of wearable art.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
"Roots of Friendship, Threads of Destiny”
In a quaint island in Kerala, Archana and Khais's paths first crossed as schoolmates. Though not close then, fate reunited them decades later on Facebook, blossoming into a strong friendship.
Archana, a seasoned designer, stylist, and entrepreneur, had previously run her own successful brand in Kerala. However, life took her on a different journey, and she prioritized family. Khais, an aeronautical engineer, had also left Kerala, seeking new horizons.
The entrepreneurial spark within them ignited a desire to collaborate. Archana's experience had taught her the challenges of managing a production unit, so they sought a fresh start. Khais's suggestion: begin with minimal infrastructure. This led them to draped garments – the elegant Dhoti and saree.
As an artist at heart, Archana yearned to merge fashion with art. Wearable art became their canvas, where every stroke tells a story. And hence, House of Archana Sankar with the menswear brand “Henpecked” and Womenswear brand, ”Once upon a woman”was born – a testament to friendship, innovation, and creative expression. Archana's design expertise and Khais's analytical mind blended perfectly, crafting unique, hand-painted, and hand-printed masterpieces.
From Kerala's tranquil landscapes to the world, their brand embodies the beauty of wearable art, where every piece is a reflection of their shared vision and passion."