The Vogue Forces of Fashion X Leap Club panel encouraged sisterhood in the age of social media

‘Instagram versus reality’ was the theme of an exclusive panel under the Vogue Forces of Fashion in association with Ajio banner that was hosted at the Leap Club in Mumbai. Featuring Rochelle Pinto, head of editorial content, Vogue India, stylist, Ami Patel and designer, Shubhika Sharma—the conversation shared insights about how social media evolved our perception of content through the years.

Drawing from their personal experiences and decades-long careers, the panellists revealed what working in fashion is truly about. Highlighting how growth often stems from moments of vulnerability and challenge, Pinto shared, “Being able to put yourself in uncomfortable situations and not being afraid to fail is so important.”

“Become unembarrassable. There’s nothing that someone can do to me that I wouldn’t willingly laugh at myself for, and that is such power,” she added.

For Patel sisterhood stood out as an integral theme as she navigated her career through its highs and lows. “To me, sisterhood on socials would mean standing up for someone, especially another stylist… or someone’s business,” she shared, emphasising the importance of actively uplifting each other in both personal and professional spheres.

For Papa Don’t Preach’s designer, Sharma, creativity and organisation go hand-in-hand, “Be very clear about your ambition and then check if your actions are aligning with your ambition,” she said. Touching upon the power of social media, Sharma also spotlighted the power of Instagram today, “My network expanded exponentially via IG and I'm grateful to it. So the tool depends on how you use it,” she explained.

For Ragini Das, the founder of Leap India, the essence of success isn't unheard of, “we just need to show up, stay real, and lift each other up,” she said. As the sun set on this conversation, all women in the room agreed that resilience, sisterhood and strength remain key to finding your way in fashion.

Also Read:

Who wore what at Vogue India's Forces of Fashion exhibition

Vogue India’s third edition of Forces of Fashion will feature a 3-day exhibition, 40 designers and more

Vogue India Forces of Fashion 2023: All the best looks on the red carpet