Name: Nitya V.Chandra
Expertise: Fashion industry executive and founder of Amar Kirti Foundation
Location: New York City

Interests: Traveling, shopping local markets, and advocating education and good hygiene for children.

Background: I was born into what some may call manufacturing royalty, so fashion and creativity are encoded in my DNA. Now not only do I bleed fashion, I sweat and cry it, too!

Why did you curate the Bounkit Gem Bracelets and what do you love about it? Bounkit’s cuffs are unique and speak to me every time I wear them. His pieces are all one of a kind and individually hand crafted in New York, which makes me feel special. They’re timeless and effortless, yet they are the perfect finishing touch to any ensemble. I love that I can wear just one or stack them up for a stronger look. 

Favorite meal: Everything Turkish!

Recent purchase: A hand painted Lost Art T-shirt. 

Hidden talent: Bargaining.

Book recommendation: Gypset Style by Julia Chaplin.

Restaurant recommendation: Although it’s not Turkish food, Suvarna Mahal at the Rambagh Palace in Jaipur makes me feel like a princess every time I’m there! 

If I had $20, I’d…: Take a cab back home after a long day’s work.

Transformative travel experience: One summer while I was in school, I shadowed my dad at work for two weeks. We visited our factories in India, Kenya, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Bahrain. I spent those weeks watching my dad walk the production lines and communicate with his factory staff. At times he would stop production, sit at the sewing machine, and teach his tailors the correct sewing procedures. These tailors didn’t speak any English, so he’d communicate his teachings solely through the language of apparel. Watching my father’s work ethic and passion inspired me to follow in his footsteps and learn the language of apparel. If I hadn’t spent those two weeks with him, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Favorite neighborhood: Old Port, Quebec City.

Dream holiday: Any place where the sand is white and the water is endless and blue.

If I could solve one problem, it would be: Cystic fibrosis.

I wish people cared more about: Other people.

Recent big aha!: My unconditional love for my dog, Madison! 

The world would be a better place if: People took time to appreciate it.