Is Fashion Solving Real Problems?

Janhavi Vivek Rampalliwar is a fashion designer, entrepreneur, and co-founder of an adaptive wear brand. Her practice brings together culture, innovation, sustainability, and social impact. In this conversation, she reflects on fashion's responsibility to respond to real lives, the importance of research and empathy, and why designers should measure lasting impact by more than aesthetics.

The Conversation

What first drew you to fashion, and how has your journey shaped the way you design today?

I was drawn to fashion because of how clothing could express identity and emotion. But as I studied design and engaged with different communities, I realized that fashion often overlooks people whose needs don't fit the mainstream. That realization changed my perspective completely. Today, I design with empathy first, focusing on functionality, dignity, and inclusion without compromising aesthetics.

What inspired you to explore the idea that fashion should solve real-world problems?

My research and fieldwork introduced me to people who struggled with something as basic as getting dressed. That made me question the true purpose of fashion. Clothing can either make daily life easier or become another challenge, and if design has the power to improve everyday experiences, fashion should be no exception.

Beyond style and self-expression, what role should fashion play in improving people's lives?

Fashion should help people feel confident, comfortable, and independent. Good design reduces barriers rather than creating them. Whether through adaptive clothing, sustainable practices, or culturally meaningful design, fashion has the ability to improve quality of life while still allowing people to express who they are.

What challenges within the fashion industry deserve far more attention than they currently receive?

Inclusive design deserves much more attention. Groups such as people with disabilities, the elderly, and individuals with temporary injuries remain underserved. Sustainability also needs to move beyond being a trend and become a genuine, lasting commitment. Designers should focus on creating products that are accessible, responsible, and meaningful.

Have you worked on a project that aimed to solve a real problem? What did that experience teach you?

Yes. My work in adaptive wear has been one of the most meaningful parts of my journey. Through interviews, observation, and research, I learned that even small design decisions can significantly improve comfort, independence, and dignity. It taught me that the best solutions come from listening to people, not from designing based on assumptions.

Looking ahead, what problems should the next generation of designers and fashion entrepreneurs prioritize?

The future of fashion should focus on accessibility, sustainability, affordability, and user-centered innovation. Designers need to think beyond trends and ask whether their products genuinely improve people's lives. Technology, research, and cross-disciplinary collaboration will play a major role in building a more inclusive industry.

What message would you like to leave for designers who want to create work with lasting impact?

Design with empathy before aesthetics. Take time to understand people, ask questions, and challenge existing norms. Trends will change, but meaningful solutions create lasting value. Fashion has the power to do much more than make people look good; it can help people live better.

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Janhavi Vivek Rampalliwar is one of the featured voices in Stitchli Society Conversations, a series spotlighting the designers, founders, and creative minds shaping the future of fashion.

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