LAUNE x Nabila
Meet Nabila Kothawala, founder of contemporary ready-to-wear women’s brand Nabila! Nabila, born and raised in Los Angeles, comes from a South Asian background that plays an integral role in shaping her design process. She has kept her tradition alive, reflecting on her roots and upbringing through the vehicle of fashion. Drawing inspiration from her heritage, she redefines styles and cuts blending the east and the west, designing ready-to-wear for the women from any part of this world. ‘Nabila’ is a celebration of heritage that maintains and embodies her own personal style—feminine with a hint of edge. Learn more about this chic and sophisticated brand below!
1. Tell me about Nabila? How was it created?
Nabila is a contemporary womenswear brand based in Los Angeles in celebration of my South Asian heritage. The styles draw inspiration from not only the traditional Pakistani garments, but its cities, culture, and textiles bringing together the east and the west. Raised in Los Angeles with Pakistani roots, my childhood was a mix of both influences. It was created as a way to stretch culture and tell a story through clothes.
2. What is the LAUNE (mood) of Nabila?
Authenticity, grace, and vibrance
3. What inspires you?
People. My family inspires me the most. And my friends. I’m so fortunate to be surrounded by such great people who have not only influenced the brand itself, but also encouraged me to start a brand.
4. What does the design process look like?
The first stage is building the mood board and looking for inspiration. Before we get to the first sample, I choose fabrics, source materials, and work with a pattern maker. Once the sample has been fitted and approved, that’s when we go into production. There are many stages within the design process, where you're working alongside so many people who are so great at what they do.
5. Who is the typical Nabila girl?
The Nabila girl loves vibrant, timeless, and versatile pieces.
6. What is your go-to uniform?
Always a pair of kitten heels, a good pair of denim jeans, and some fun, staple jewelry.
7. Tell me about the ethos of Nabila and how do you come up with the names for each piece?
Pakistan is often depicted through a limited perspective in the media but within the culture and its people lies so much beauty, grace, warmth, and resilience. Each piece of clothing is named in the Pakistani native language, Urdu, embodying characteristics of the Nabila woman while some names play with popular phrases and feelings.
8. What’s next for you and Nabila?
I’m starting to move more into bespoke pieces as well as playing around with some menswear styles. I love collaborating with people and creating pieces custom to an individual. It creates a space to celebrate the individual in each custom piece.
Rapid Fire:
1. What are three staple items that every closet should have?
A good pair of denim jeans, a button-down, and a comfortable heel.
2. Describe the style of Nabila in three words.
Comfortable, feminine, and edgy.
3. Early mornings or sleeping in?
A balance of the two but never too early.
4. AM or PM skincare?
PM is definitely when I have the most fun with skincare.
5. Dream collab?
Just finishing Emily in Paris Part 2 has me dreaming of a collab.
6. Favorite place?
Anywhere near water.
7. Favorite restaurant in LA?
The Fountain Room at the Beverly Hills Hotel. The best waffles at any time of the day.
8. Favorite style icon?
Princess Diana
9. Favorite movie?
The Parent Trap
10. What are you loving right now?
Steven Barlett’s Podcast is so good.
