Trading in her IT career to pursue her dreams of working in fashion, Maple Grove resident and owner of Festive Colors India Aarzoo Bhansali opened her own clothing boutique to provide a source for traditional Indian apparel. Reflecting the tradition of colorful, authentic Indian garments and accessories, Festive Colors India was started to bring her unique visions and personal style to life for others. “I love color, so this is all colorful clothing, which makes me happy,” says Bhansali, whose favorite color is blue.
Though she has a master’s degree in computer science, she always had a passion for designing clothes and jewelry. While in her IT career, Bhansali says people noticed her modern Indian clothing. “Whenever I dressed up, I do get compliments for unique designs, styles [and] handcrafted rare pieces,” she says. People took notice and wanted the items for themselves, family members and friends.
Studying the art of ethnic Indian clothes, Bhansali later connected with multiple makers in India to source the classic and contemporary pieces in her shop. “I always like to support small artists, designers, weavers, fabric painters and small women’s cooperatives and people with [all abilities] ...,” she says.
Carrying clothing and accessories for women, men and children of all sizes, her selection includes a variety of sarees, dresses, blouses, lehengas (ankle length skirts), scarves, dupattas (veils), stoles, kurtis (loose, collarless shirts), salwar, jewelry, purses and gifts. Featuring a curated collection of designer pieces and styles from all states in India, she also provides options for custom designs. Ensuring each piece is the best fit for each customer, Bhansali will connect customers with local Indian seamstresses if alterations are needed.
“Most customers ... come back, so I feel happy about it because that is good sign, I think,” she says. “They have become my friends, and my customers bring me gifts and they send me thank-you cards, which really brings joy.
I want that person to wear that outfit and enjoy and be comfortable.”
Three Ways to Shop
Schedule an appointment at Festive Colors India for a personalized shopping experience for one or the entire family. Set up like any store—the racks are organized by styles and sizes, and the jewelry is by the fitting rooms for individuals to try on and feel confident in the piece before purchasing.
Save time by scheduling a video appointment with Bhansali. Sending customers a form to fill out their sizes and preferences prior to meeting, she provides shoppers with a one-of-a-kind personal experience. Shipping is usually the same day.
Using her first seven years in the business to learn and experience how customers were like in-person, Bhansali opened an online store option. Shop now at festivecolorsindia.com.
The Festival of Colors
Marking the beginning of spring, Holi celebrates the story of Hindu prince Prahlada being protected from a burning fire by the god Vishnu. Emulating the flickering flames in the fire, festival goers celebrate by throwing brightly colored water and powder on each other.
The Hindu Society of Minnesota will celebrate this colorful festival of Holi on March 19 with a social, various vendors, a program and dinner. For more details on this event, visit hindutemplemn.org.
Festive Colors India
612.216.4164; festivecolorsindia.com
Festive Colors India
@festivecolorsindia
The Hindu Society of Minnesota
10530 Troy Lane N.; 833.469.4766; hindutemplemn.org
Hindu Society of Minnesota
@hsmnorg
