3 Fits With Gaurav Khanijo

Khanijo is the insurgent heartbeat of ethical luxury —tailored, textured, and unapologetically rooted in India’s craft legacy. Founded in 2016, Gaurav Khanijo’s eponymous label slices through the noise with razor-sharp silhouettes, raw handwoven khadi and a fearless, gender-fluid take on modern masculinity. With artisanal precision stripped of pretension, Khanijo speaks to a new tribe of style renegades who dress with intention, instinct and power. Since his arrival, the Indian fashion landscape has never been the same—and we’re here, up front and centre for the revolution.

We catch up with the designer to dive deep into his creative calling, his definition of style, and how memory and individualism blend seamlessly into his work... and, of course, the things he will never wear and the stuff he’s never throwing out.

Vest by Zara; Robe, trousers, both by Khanijo; Sandals by Kaka Sumi; Neck chain, charms from across the globe (personal); Sunglasses, limited edition, by a local Japanese designerBhumika Sharma

Was there a first moment you fell in love with clothing and menswear?

If I had to name a true beginning, it was those early mornings watching my grandfather put his look together with real intention. He would carefully choose his suit, match the right tie and shirt, polish his shoes to a quiet shine—all part of a ritual he never rushed. What stayed with me even more was how, in the midst of it all, he’d take his insulin shot on his thigh every morning, without a flinch. There was something so dignified, graceful and grounded in that act. That’s when I began to understand that style isn’t just about clothes—it’s about discipline, self-respect and storytelling.

What inspires your edgy, inimitable approach to fashion?

I draw from everything around me—architecture, music, old family photos, the streets of Delhi, artisanal crafts, and even silence. There’s beauty in imperfection, in things that are lived-in and honest. I’m not interested in perfection; I’m interested in personality. The “edge” comes from the tension between the traditional and the unexpected—like putting a handwoven textile into a sharply tailored silhouette or blending the softness of heritage with the boldness of now.

How has your own personal style evolved over the years?

In school, style was already my playground. I’d get different kinds of pants tailored for each day of the week—bootcut on one, low-rise on another, drop-crotch, pleated vintage—the works. It wasn’t about standing out; it was about expressing how I felt that day. While others might have seen it as just clothes, for me it was already a language. That early freedom to explore silhouettes and challenge norms shaped the way I approach design today.

What’s one item from any of your collections that holds a special place in your heart or has a cool story behind it?

Ah yes—the red bag from school. That one holds a very special place in my heart. It started out as just a regular school bag, but as it aged and wore in, it turned into something way more personal. I remember, as it got older, I began collecting my friends’ phone numbers on it with a black marker —names, digits, little scribbles—all from the late ’90s or maybe 2000. Over time, that bag became this living archive of memories and friendships. It ended up looking incredibly cool—like a diary you could carry on your shoulder. It had personality, chaos, stories—things I now try to bring into my work.

T-shirt by Hugo Boss; Cape by Reborn 29; Trousers, boots, both by Zara; Sunglasses by Henrik Vibskov x Gentle Monster; Scarf from a vintage selection in ParisBhumika Sharma

What would you never wear?

I’d never wear something that feels like it’s wearing me. Anything that’s loud or just chasing attention for the sake of it completely disconnects from who I am. So, whether it’s a flashy logo overdose, aggressively synthetic fabrics or anything that sacrifices soul for trend—I steer clear.

What are you currently on the hunt for?

The perfect belt. One that feels like an heirloom—something handcrafted, with a bit of patina, maybe a hand-carved brass buckle, and leather that gets better with age.

If you had to wear one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Something that moves with me and breathes with me. I’d go with a perfectly cut, relaxed handwoven khadi kurta—slightly oversized but tailored at the shoulders—paired with high-waisted pleated trousers in a soft, lived-in cotton or linen. Barefoot if I could, but if not, then classic leather sandals or worn-in mules that feel like second skin.

One thing from your closet you’ll never throw out?

My lungis and sarongs—whether it’s a hand-dyed batik from Indonesia, a woven check from South India, or a printed sarong from East Africa. They’re living textiles, woven with tradition, technique and time.

Any style tips for those looking to take their style more seriously, but don’t know where to start?

Start with self-awareness. Think about what makes you feel good, what fabrics you’re drawn to, what silhouettes you’re comfortable in. Invest in fit—even the simplest clothes look elevated when they fit well. Build a foundation and start with timeless staples: a well-cut trouser, a clean shirt, versatile shoes. Try new things, but one piece at a time. Care about quality and choose fabrics that age well.

What are the things you enjoy doing during your downtime?

I’m shaking up cocktails for my wife (who’s slowly becoming a fan), sipping chai like it’s a life philosophy, hoarding textiles I absolutely don’t need and playing fetch-with-a-twist with my 2.5-year-old dog, Mala—who fully believes she runs the house.

Three quirky things no one knows about you?

I have a full-blown addiction to buying textiles—no plan, just passion (and piles); I love experimenting with my hair—as long as it’s on my head, it’s open to ideas; and I have a playlist for ironing clothes. Yes, ironing. It’s a vibe.

Styled by: Mehak Khanna

Photography: Bhumika Sharma

Grooming: Simrem Nataly

To read more stories from Esquire India's May-June 2025 issue, pick up a copy of the magazine from your nearest newspaper stand or bookstore. Or click here to subscribe to the magazine.