Hauz Khas

It started with Bina Ramani setting up a boutique in 1988. And soon Hauz Khas acquired the reputation of being "the national capital of ethnic chic". Boutiques and shops set in converted old homes up and down narrow alleys sell handicrafts, curios, old carpets and designer clothing. A Touch of Gold is an antique little shop with saris, salwar kameezes and lehngas from our grandmothers' era. At Dozakh, Isha and Nitin Kartikeya draw in their inspiration from ancient civilizations, making garments that are simple in silhouettes but radical in thought.

Ecru, the brainchild of Ankur Batra, concentrates on high-quality clothes that blend ethnic and modern designs. Portraits, which runs mainly on orders, is a quiet yet dependable destination for semi-formal wear. If you are looking for chikankari creations, Prateeksha is just the right destination. Kanika Rungta's Zoya presents a decent collection of silver and fashion jewellery.