Saman Kukreja on Merging New York Energy with Italian Craftsmanship in Fashion

By  //  March 6, 2025

Saman Kukreja is a prominent entrepreneur and the founder of Persaman New York, a fashion brand celebrated for its distinctive blend of New York energy and Italian craftsmanship.

Her journey in fashion commenced in 1994, driven by a passion for self-expression and inspired by the vibrant culture of New York City. Saman has always felt a profound connection to NYC, with its dynamic atmosphere not only influencing her personal style but also fueling her ambition to create a brand that embodies individuality and creativity. Her travels to Italy further enhanced her vision, igniting a love for the country’s rich history, artistry, and exquisite textiles—an admiration that is now central to Persaman New York. In this interview, we delve into Kukreja’s insights on innovation, leadership, and sustaining a respected presence in the fashion industry.

The Role of Innovation and Embracing New Tools

How does embracing innovation and utilizing new tools influence your creative direction and business strategy at Persaman New York?

Innovation is at the heart of Persaman New York. From incorporating sustainable materials to leveraging digital design tools, embracing new technologies allows us to stay competitive, relevant, and forward-thinking in a constantly evolving industry. It’s about blending traditional craftsmanship with modern advancements, ensuring that every piece we create feels timeless yet contemporary. The use of artificial intelligence for forecasting trends and blockchain technology for supply chain transparency has further strengthened our approach to ethical fashion.

Upholding Reputation and Trust

What actions or principles guide you in maintaining a positive and respected reputation within the global fashion industry?

Integrity, authenticity, and a deep respect for artistry are the foundations of my reputation. I believe in delivering quality, staying true to my vision, and treating both my clients and collaborators with the utmost professionalism. The fashion industry is built on relationships, and a strong reputation comes from being consistent, ethical, and dedicated to excellence.

What strategies do you rely on to cultivate and maintain trust with your customers and collaborators, ensuring lasting relationships?

Trust is built on transparency, quality, and delivering on promises. I ensure that customers and collaborators feel valued through honest storytelling—sharing the craftsmanship behind every piece. Exceptional customer experience—from first interaction to post-purchase care—is also crucial. Finally, upholding ethical business practices, such as ensuring fair treatment of artisans and sustainable sourcing, is central to building lasting relationships.

Leadership and Personal Growth

What do you consider your greatest strength as a leader and designer, and how do you use it to drive success for Persaman New York?

My ability to balance creativity with business strategy is my greatest strength. As a designer, I create pieces that tell a story and evoke emotion. As a leader, I ensure that every design aligns with brand positioning, market trends, and consumer needs. This dual perspective drives Persaman New York’s success, keeping it both artistic and commercially viable. Additionally, I cultivate a collaborative work environment where my team feels empowered to contribute fresh ideas and push creative boundaries.

How do you approach complaints, constructive criticism, and feedback to enhance both your personal growth and your brand’s evolution?

I welcome constructive criticism because it is essential for growth. In fashion, feedback comes from customers, critics, and the industry at large, and I see every comment as an opportunity to refine and elevate what we do. Open communication and learning from challenges have been key in shaping both my personal development and Persaman New York’s evolution. I actively engage with customer reviews and industry feedback to improve future collections while staying aligned with our brand values.

Strategies for Continued Growth and Success

What steps do you take to set clear goals that align with your vision for continued growth and success in the highly competitive fashion industry?

I focus on strategic goal-setting by aligning creativity with business growth. My process involves staying customer-centric by understanding evolving preferences, expanding into new markets while reinforcing brand heritage, investing in sustainable and ethical production to future-proof the business, and setting measurable milestones that balance financial success and artistic fulfillment. I also prioritize digital expansion and e-commerce innovations to enhance brand reach.

In future sections of this interview, we will explore Kukreja’s perspectives on industry trends, mentorship, and her unique approach to balancing transparency and privacy while safeguarding her brand’s integrity.

What techniques have you found most effective in building and enhancing your professional reputation as an entrepreneur and mentor?

Consistency and mentorship are key. By staying true to my brand’s vision and delivering exceptional quality, I’ve built a reputation that speaks for itself. Additionally, I take pride in mentoring emerging designers, sharing insights, and fostering creativity within the next generation of fashion entrepreneurs. By guiding young talent, I help shape the future of fashion while reinforcing the core values that define Persaman New York.

How do you stay ahead of industry trends and developments to ensure that Persaman New York remains relevant and innovative?

I stay ahead by observing, adapting, and leading. Fashion is a fusion of art, culture, and technology, so I continuously research global fashion movements, attend cultural events for inspiration, and invest in digital marketing and AI-driven trend forecasting. Additionally, I collaborate with artists and visionaries from different creative fields to bring fresh perspectives into fashion design.

How do you balance transparency and privacy in your interactions with clients, collaborators, and team members while safeguarding your brand’s integrity?

Transparency is key in today’s world, but so is discretion. I share the creative and ethical journey of my brand while maintaining confidentiality in business relationships. I ensure that all interactions—whether with clients or partners—are rooted in mutual respect, trust, and clear boundaries. This balance helps maintain authenticity while protecting proprietary brand strategies.

What measures do you take to protect and uphold your professional reputation, particularly in the dynamic and public-facing world of fashion?

I protect my reputation by being intentional with my brand narrative, ensuring high standards of craftsmanship, and aligning with the right partnerships. In a digital world where perceptions can shift quickly, I also prioritize online reputation management, ensuring that Persaman New York is presented in a way that reflects its true essence—a brand built on creativity, ethics, and excellence. Staying engaged with our audience, addressing concerns proactively, and consistently delivering high-quality products solidifies our place as a trusted brand.

Conclusion

Saman Kukreja continues to be a formidable presence in the fashion industry, driving Persaman New York with a blend of creativity, ethical practices, and strategic innovation. Through her leadership, mentorship, and dedication to excellence, she exemplifies how fashion can not only be a form of self-expression but also a platform for positive impact. Her vision and achievements are a testament to her commitment to both her craft and her community. As she expands her brand globally, her ability to seamlessly merge artistry with business acumen ensures that Persaman New York remains a significant force in contemporary fashion.