Women leaders are transforming India’s fashion retail landscape with strategic vision, innovation, and a keen pulse on the evolving consumer. From luxury to D2C, they’re driving growth, sustainability, and inclusivity—while redefining brand storytelling and digital strategy. This feature celebrates the women reshaping the fashion retail industry, breaking barriers, and elevating India’s global fashion presence.
In this edition, we spotlight Deepika Khare Arora, National Head – Business Development, CaratLane & Shaya, who is driving retail expansion through a deep understanding of consumer behavior, strengthening the brand’s footprint and accelerating growth in India’s evolving fashion retail market.
About Deepika Khare Arora
Deepika Khare Arora began her career at a time when organised retail was just emerging in India. Fascinated by global brands and malls, she was drawn to the dynamic world of retail. Currently, she is instrumental in expanding the retail footprint of CaratLane and Shaya, overseeing strategic growth through real estate acquisition, franchise onboarding, legal documentation, store design, and project execution. Deepika’s expertise ensures seamless store launches, driving business success. With an MBA in Strategy and Marketing, Deepika continues to shape the retail landscape with her vision and execution prowess.
Challenges & Triumphs in Leadership
Throughout her retail journey, Deepika encountered a diverse range of individuals while travelling across different parts of the country – some highly professional and others with a more calculative approach. At times, certain individuals tried to avoid dialouge with a women leader, however she believes that carrying confidence and being self-reliant proved invaluable for her.
Key Strengths & Areas for Growth
- Strengths: Passionate about work
- Area of Improvement: Time management
Career Aspirations & Future Goals
To continue doing great work, build confidence, and inspire more strong women.
Essential Skills for Success
- Transparency
- Honesty
- Communication
- Networking
Career Learning
Explore every opportunity and possibility without any hesitation.
Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders
Be passionate about work, enjoy it and go on to achieve all the milestones. Sky is the limit in retail.
Vision for the Future
India’s retail industry has witnessed remarkable growth, evolving from traditional mom-and-pop stores to hypermarkets and expansive malls. Online and quick commerce have further revolutionised convenience for consumers. The key to success however remains the same – understanding customer needs and adapting accordingly.
Biggest Role Model & Why
Maneesh Mittal, as he provided the necessary tools and autonomy to work independently, emphasising growth over micromanagement.
Life Mantra
‘Do what you believe in and always be humble.’
