South Asian boutique Armaans By Rahul opens in New Hyde Park
Designer Rahul Arora opened his South Asian boutique, Armaans By Rahul, in February. Credit: Armaans By Rahul
Designer Rahul Arora’s New Hyde Park showroom specializes in eye-catching South Asian fashions — and making dreams a reality.
That’s actually hinted at in the name of the shop — Armaans By Rahul — which opened in February. "It means wish or desire," Arora says. "Part of my job is giving customers what they are looking for."
With its array of gracefully draped saris, finely tailored tunic-like kurtas, layered salwar suits, and dreamy lehengas — long, flared skirts — and other selections, the inviting boutique is a new must-visit for style-conscious women and men.
The boutique carries everything from casual everyday wear to wedding attire and custom orders. Credit: Armaans By Rahul
"We carry basically everything — from casual everyday clothes to party wear to custom orders," says Arora, who lives near Roslyn. "We also have wedding attire for brides and grooms, as well as costume jewelry."
Step into the store or peek on Instagram or TikTok, where he shares new looks, and you’ll see a rich array of colors and fabrics. Prices range from around $300 to $5,000.
Styles span traditional and modern looks. Cholis — the blouses worn with lehengas — come in a variety of looks and cuts, from sleek, fitted crop tops to more modest, long-sleeved designs.
About half of the store's selections are Arora’s own designs. "I developed my skills through real-world experience and a passion for style," he says, adding that his aesthetic leans toward a "more trendy, more sexy look."
Owner Rahul Arora Credit: Armaans By Rahul
Since completing his college studies in India in 1997, Arora has lived in the United States and worked in the clothing industry. In 2004, he and his family opened the now-closed shop Rahul Exclusive in Jackson Heights, Queens. Arora’s father and brother run another boutique and a separate linens shop there.
"Since then, I’ve been creating contemporary and elegant fashion," he says, adding that he’s made his reputation on his keen attention to detail.
Small but impactful flourishes, after all, are a hallmark of South Asian style. Garments are often elaborately adorned with embroidery, beads and jewel-like mirror discs.
The store is open daily. Arora has plans to open an adjacent shop just for weddings — Armaans Bridal — by the end of the year.
The new ventures appeal to Arora. "I love doing what I do," he says.
Armaans By Rahul, 926 Hillside Ave., New Hyde Park, 516-628-7486
