NY Fashion Week Spotlight: Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar Walks The Runway

Photo: Facebook

India-West News Desk

NEW YORK, NY – New York State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar made a striking appearance at New York Fashion Week on September 10, wearing a design by emerging Indian American label Soara.

Her participation came as part of Style Across the Aisle, an event that brings together civic and cultural leaders to spotlight up-and-coming designers.

Rajkumar, the first Indian American woman elected to state office, shared her excitement on social media, writing: “I walk the runway every day on the streets of New York, and this week I did it on a bigger stage. I wore a piece by emerging Indian-American designer Soara at Style Across the Aisle. My goal is a state where every New Yorker confidently walks a wide open runway to opportunity.”

Soara, co-founded in 2024 by designers Surya Garg and Madhu Powar, draws inspiration from South Asian heritage while embracing sustainable and ethical practices. The brand emphasizes natural fabrics, artisan craftsmanship from India, and a direct-to-customer pre-order model, making each piece both timeless and environmentally conscious.

Garg, like Rajkumar, is the daughter of Indian American immigrants, reflecting the cultural connections celebrated in the collection. “Each piece represents the balance between the vibrance of India and the edge of New York,” Soara notes on its website. “Our goal is to be your partner on your journey to feel like your most authentic self.”

Style Across the Aisle has quickly become a fixture of Fashion Week, featuring designers from across the city and models from New York’s political and civic landscape. This year’s edition raised more than $75,000 for charitable causes while celebrating small businesses, diversity, and community.