Finally sleep is getting its moment in the sun, and a getting a good night’s sleep is touted as the number one thing you can do for your health and healthspan.
Founder of iconic silk sleepwear Gazalli, Gazal Nissar ensures you get a great night sleep in her garments. And if you oversleep, no problem! In Gazalli you can easily go from bedroom to loungeroom (and zoom), and the perfect outfit for a long haul flight! Kris Abbey, sits down with Gazal to chat about her big dream becoming a reality
Describe your journey to create the business you have today?
My journey to create Gazalli was fueled by a commitment to merge creativity with a greater purpose beyond fashion, sparked during my international HR career travelling across Europe and Asia. These experiences ignited my desire for sleepwear and loungewear that encapsulates my belief in the power of relaxation and self-care. Despite lacking a fashion background, I embarked on a three-year self-learning journey, overcoming challenges from fabric sourcing to convincing manufacturers to collaborate with a small startup. My amateur sketches served as a starting point to transform dreams into reality, all while navigating the global COVID-19 pandemic. Tragedy struck with my mother’s passing before Gazalli’s launch, yet her legacy inspired me to honor her by bringing Gazalli to life in 2023, transforming it into more than just a brand but a tribute to resilient women who inspire generations.
What do you like most about what you do?
At Gazalli, my passion lies in designing. It’s the heart of the brand, where creativity meets purpose. Crafting each piece is an exhilarating journey, from concept to creation, where I can bring my vision to life. Designing allows me to infuse every garment with the essence of relaxation, luxury, and empowerment that Gazalli embodies.
What’s the hardest thing about it?
The challenge lies in balancing creativity in design with the demands of running a business, all within the dynamic fashion industry. Navigating this requires wearing multiple hats to align creative expression with pragmatic decision-making, ensuring each step reflects Gazalli’s vision and values.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
As a child, I oscillated between aspiring to become a human rights lawyer and a fashion designer. Despite my innate creativity and love for art and craft, I also possessed a strong desire to defend those who were bullied or mistreated. However, as I grew older, societal influences and parental expectations led me to pursue studies in a field with a stable career trajectory, ultimately leading me to choose a path in Human Resources.
Who has been the greatest influence on your career/business?
The greatest influence on my career and business journey has undoubtedly been my mother. Her unwavering support, selflessness, and strength have been my guiding light, inspiring me to pursue my dreams even in the face of adversity. Her passing before Gazalli’s launch served as a powerful reminder of the importance of honouring her legacy through perseverance and determination. Her values of compassion, resilience, and dedication to others continue to shape every decision I make, driving Gazalli’s mission to make a positive impact on both people and the planet.
What’s the inspiration behind Gazalli?
Gazalli is inspired by a profound appreciation for relaxation and self-care, fueling the creation of luxurious sleepwear and loungewear designed to embody both comfort and luxury. Drawing from the legacy of strong, selfless women like my mother, the brand is deeply committed to social responsibility and empowerment.
Sum up Gazalli in a sentence or two.
Gazalli is a luxury sleepwear brand born from a passion for relaxation and self-care, dedicated to crafting exquisite handmade pieces that embody elegance, versatility, and sustainability.
What’s the best feature of your eye masks?
The standout feature of Gazalli eye masks lies in their premium quality silk construction and silk filling, offering unparalleled comfort and luxurious softness that ensures a blissful, uninterrupted rest.
The fashion industry has been known to be a major polluter, I know you are doing your part, but how can we get more brands being more mindful?
Brands can start by adopting sustainable practices throughout their supply chain, including sourcing eco-friendly materials, minimising waste, and reducing carbon emissions. Collaboration with suppliers to ensure ethical working conditions and fair wages is also essential.
What’s your why?
Gazalli’s “why” is rooted in a deep belief in the power of relaxation, self-care, and empowerment. Striving to create luxurious sleepwear and loungewear that not only envelops our customers in comfort and elegance but also embodies our commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Our mission is to inspire individuals to cherish moments of respite, celebrate self-expression, and make a positive impact on both people and the planet, honouring the legacy of strong, selfless women who inspire us. Gazalli’s why is to infuse everyday life with a touch of luxury and consciousness, making bedtime a dream and lounging an art form while fostering a brighter, more inclusive future.
What is your biggest health tip?
My biggest health tip is to prioritise self-care and relaxation. Whether it’s through quality sleep, mindfulness practices, or moments of relaxation, prioritising self-care allows us to recharge, reduce stress, and cultivate a healthier mind and body.
What is your favourite pastime?
My favourite pastime is going for long walks, curling up with a good book, and indulging in moments of self-care. These activities bring me a sense of peace, relaxation, and rejuvenation, allowing me to unwind and recharge amidst life’s demands.
What books are on your bedside table?
By my bedside, I have an inspiring collection of books that fuel my creativity and provide me with deep insights into life’s mysteries:
1. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho – A timeless tale of adventure and self-discovery that reminds me to follow my dreams and listen to my heart’s calling.
2. “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle – This transformative guide to spiritual enlightenment encourages me to embrace the present moment and find peace in the here and now.
3. “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor E. Frankl – A profound exploration of the human spirit and resilience in the face of adversity, reminding me of the importance of finding meaning and purpose in life’s challenges.
4. “Madame Chic” by Jennifer L. Scott – A charming exploration of French-inspired elegance and simplicity, offering practical tips for cultivating a life of style and grace.
5. “The Forty Rules of Love” by Elif Shafak – A captivating novel that weaves together the stories of Rumi and a modern-day woman, exploring themes of love, spirituality, and the transformative power of connection.
These books serve as a source of inspiration and wisdom, guiding me on my journey of self-discovery, creativity, and personal growth.
What is the last thing you do each night before going to bed?
The final ritual before I slip into bed is a prayer of gratitude. With a heart full of appreciation, I reflect on the blessings of the day, acknowledging the beauty in both the ordinary and extraordinary moments. I express gratitude for the love, joy, and experiences that enrich my life, cultivating a sense of peace and contentment.
What is your fashion staple?
My black dress is my ultimate fashion staple, timeless and endlessly versatile. Over the past 20 years, it has been a constant in my wardrobe, seamlessly transitioning through seasons and occasions. Whether paired with casual or formal pieces, it serves as the foundation for countless stylish ensembles, embodying both elegance and adaptability.
What has been the best day of your life?
The best day of my life is undoubtedly the day I created Gazalli, fulfilling my dream of crafting pieces for strong and beautiful women while also contributing positively to humanity and Mother Earth. It represents the culmination of my passion, purpose, and commitment to making a meaningful difference in the world.
What is the bravest thing you’ve ever done?
Founding Gazalli has been the bravest venture of my life, requiring courage, resilience, and unwavering determination in the face of challenges and uncertainties. Despite the risks, I embraced the opportunity to pursue my passion and turn my vision into reality, driven by a deep sense of purpose and belief in Gazalli’s mission.
What is the biggest tip you could give to help a young designer or business person?
The biggest tip I could offer to a young designer or business person is to embrace resilience and perseverance. Building a successful career or business requires dedication, hard work, and the ability to overcome obstacles and setbacks along the way. Stay focused on your goals, believe in your vision, and don’t be afraid to take risks or make mistakes. Learn from failures, adapt to challenges, and keep pushing forward, even when faced with adversity. Cultivate a growth mindset, remain flexible in your approach, and never lose sight of your passion and purpose. Drawing from personal experience, I’ve learned that true character is forged in moments of adversity, and it’s our response to these challenges that truly defines our journey.
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