Davi Bains-Gill Blends Indian and Western Fashion at Armaan DBG

Surrey-based designer Davi Bains-Gill is making waves in the fashion industry with her label Armaan DBG, which she founded in 2003. Known for its unique fusion of traditional Indian motifs and contemporary Western styles, the brand has garnered attention from celebrity clients and fashion enthusiasts across Canada and beyond. This innovative approach has positioned Bains-Gill at the forefront of a growing trend, appealing to a younger generation seeking to blend their cultural heritage with modern aesthetics.

On October 5, 2023, Bains-Gill will showcase her latest collection, dubbed Sikkā, during the High Fashion & High Tea event. This fundraiser, aimed at supporting Options Community Services in its efforts to build affordable housing in Guildford, highlights her commitment to community engagement, a value she has carried from her previous career in social services.

Bains-Gill’s new collection features 15 outfits crafted from pure silk fabrics, incorporating intricate coin handwork and fall colors. The designs exemplify her vision of East-meets-West fusion, combining elements such as corsets with traditional Indian saris and jackets adorned with Indian embroidery. She explains, “I’ve been doing this for 25 years. When I started, I wanted to change the Vancouver fashion market. It was all very traditional before, and I wanted youngsters to start wearing more Indian with Western, because that’s who they are.”

The designer’s journey from social services to fashion stems from her desire to create a space where cultural identity can thrive. “I’m a people person,” she shares. “When clients come in, I love talking to them. They’re not just designing outfits; they’re sharing their lives with me.” This personal connection is crucial to her work, allowing her to craft custom pieces that resonate with her clients’ unique stories.

The event at Empress Palace Ballroom, located at 8166 128 St #201, Surrey, is expected to draw a large crowd, underscoring the demand for detailed, custom-made outfits that are often needed for weddings and other significant events. Bains-Gill notes that approximately 80 percent of her clientele is tied to such celebrations, emphasizing the importance of her work in the community.

As she reflects on the evolving fashion scene, Bains-Gill observes that many luxury brands are now adopting Indian fusion designs, albeit with a significant time lag. “I think Gucci is doing it, and a few others. The handwork is big, the embroidery is big — but they’re 25 years behind schedule,” she asserts, highlighting her pioneering role in this fashion revolution.

Bains-Gill’s commitment to social causes remains strong. She expresses her support for the High Tea fundraiser, stating, “A home is where everything starts. That’s your foundation, your comfort zone, your security.” Her words resonate with many, as she emphasizes the importance of stable housing in shaping one’s life and opportunities.

Through her work at Armaan DBG, Davi Bains-Gill not only promotes a vibrant blend of cultures but also contributes meaningfully to her community. The upcoming event serves not only as a platform for her latest designs but also as a reminder of the powerful intersection between fashion and social responsibility.