Meet Reshma Mistry | Founder & Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Reshma Mistry and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Reshma, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
While my business has taught me many lessons, the most prominent I would say is that there will be many ebbs and flows at all stages, learning from each high AND low is what will help your business succeed. I’ve learned to pivot where I can but also let go of what I cannot control.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Noori means “light” in Arabic; and looking back, I can see how fashion has illuminated my pathway.

Growing up in England & New York, have influenced my fashion choices as well as the pieces I design today. Sure, growing up, South Asian fashion influenced my everyday life, but it wasn’t always accessible. So, I found ways to incorporate my heritage into my wardrobe with vibrant accessories, outerwear or statement pieces.

I went on to study Fashion Merchandising Management at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), and spent the next decade in different parts of the industry — from merchandising, to styling. I met women of all backgrounds who wanted something eclectic, yet dependable in their wardrobes.

Amidst a global pandemic & life transitions, I started Noori in 2021. It was truly a lightbulb moment, after reflecting on my experiences in the industry. As I saw my daughters experiencing some of the same challenges of feeling a sense of belonging that I experienced at their age, I knew it was my time to make an impact and demonstrate to them that belonging can come in various forms. While they are being raised up during a time where there is quite a bit of South Asian representation in various industries, when the entrepreneur is their mother it takes on a different narrative. They were looking to me for guidance on all things fashion and self-expression; and I wanted to create something they could be proud of.

As a designer, I weave my layered experience in the industry, passion for true representation, and commitment to approachable fusion-wear into each Noori design.

I like to think of Noori as a love letter to the modern women who is refined with flair, authentic and timeless, as our clothing is just that–approachable and timeless.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1- we would stay local to the South Bay, perhaps hiking at the beautiful Uvas Canyon County Park. After the hike it would be time to taste some of the delicious wines that come from Santa Clara County.

Day 2- Heading up the Peninsula to the Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay for lunch and an afternoon of taking in the ocean views while sipping on a refreshing drink. Dinner would be at one of my favorite spots down in Palo Alto-Oren’s Hummus Shop, Tamarine, or Evvia Estiatorio.

Day 3-We’re heading south to Point Lobos and Garrapata State Park in Carmel to take in beautiful views of the Pacific while picnicking on the beach. Dinner would have to be pizza at Bicyclette.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
While my husband, daughters and parents are my biggest cheerleaders and deserve all the shoutouts. I want to give a shoutout to The Female Founder’s Collective for providing a platform for women to learn and connect. My fellow South Asian small business owners here in the Bay Area that came together build the most supportive community.

Website: https://noorithelabel.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noorithelabel/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reshma-mistry-51306112/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noorithelabel/

Image Credits
Akash Patel @akashpatelx Tanushree Vaidya @tanushreevaidyaphotography Faiz @by.faiz