In the ever-evolving world of fashion, Harsh Agarwal, the 27-year-old Founder and Creative Director of HARAGO, has carved a distinctive niche that transcends traditional boundaries. His journey, marked by passion, innovation, and a commitment to showcasing India’s artisanal heritage, has propelled HARAGO onto the global stage.
The pivotal moment for Harsh came on a morning in October 2021, as he witnessed a surge in followers and notifications on HARAGO’s Instagram account. The cause for this excitement? Renowned English singer Harry Styles gracing the streets of Florida in Harago’s hand-embroidered carrot farm shorts. For Harsh, this wasn’t just a fashion endorsement; it was a validation of his creative vision by a global icon.
Hailing from Jaipur, Harsh proudly wears the label of an outsider in the fashion realm. A liberal arts graduate from Symbiosis, Pune, majoring in economics, Harsh’s journey into fashion wasn’t conventional. His college days were marked by a focus on sustainable development, and an internship at the United Nations headquarters in New York opened his eyes to the world of sustainable fashion. Returning to India, he realized that his true calling lay in fashion and textiles.
What began as a humble menswear label in 2019, with Harsh collaborating with his mother, sister, and one tailor, has transformed into HARAGO—a flourishing brand with a team of 20, comprising tailors, junior designers, and a production-in-charge. As the number of orders increased, stitching found its way into outsourced factories, marking the organic growth of HARAGO.
Harsh’s design philosophy is intuitive, catering to a niche clientele. Whimsical embroidery graces the cuts for the adventurous souls, while clean handwoven fabric with elegant details defines clothing for those with a classic aesthetic. Hema Shroff Patel, textile practitioner, and founder of Amba, commends Harsh for his commitment to quality work and building lasting relationships with artisans.
In a fashion landscape increasingly embracing ethical and slow fashion, Harsh has taken a different approach. He refrains from categorizing HARAGO as such, acknowledging the inherent challenges of achieving 100 percent sustainability in an industry driven by changing trends and insatiable demands. His focus remains steadfast on craftsmanship and showcasing India’s rich artisanal heritage.
Harsh’s dedication to craftsmanship is evident in his relentless pursuit of new designs. With at least 105 pieces ready, HARAGO adopts a unique strategy—four drops in a year through social media pre-orders. The Covid-19 lockdown became a period of inspiration for Harsh as he delved into his family’s heirlooms. The result was a collection that garnered international attention, with queries from buyers and retail partnerships with renowned names like Matches Fashion, Ssense, LMDS Shanghai, and Boyhood.
Tan France, television host and fashion designer, attests to Harsh’s unique eye for design, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern-classic silhouettes. As HARAGO looks to the future, Harsh anticipates the launch of the brand’s first womenswear and bags collection exclusively on Matches Fashion this summer.
In the hands of Harsh Agarwal, HARAGO isn’t just a fashion label; it’s a testament to the fusion of tradition and modernity, craftsmanship and innovation. With each design, Harsh weaves a narrative that goes beyond trends, resonating with individuals who seek uniqueness and a connection to India’s rich artistic legacy. As HARAGO continues to make waves globally, Harsh Agarwal stands as a beacon of creativity, rewriting the script of Indian fashion on the world stage.
