Nidhi Yadav’s journey from a software engineer at Deloitte to the founder of a ₹300 crore fashion brand, AKS Clothing, is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and determination.
Early Life and Education
Born in Indore to lawyer parents, Nidhi pursued computer engineering and began her career at Deloitte. However, her passion for fashion led her to enroll in a one-year course in Fashion Buying and Merchandising at Polimoda Fashion School in Florence, Italy.
The Genesis of AKS Clothing
In 2014, Nidhi launched AKS Clothing from her 2BHK apartment in Gurugram with an initial investment of ₹3.5 lakh. The brand aimed to offer affordable, stylish ethnic wear for Indian women, blending traditional designs with contemporary aesthetics.
Growth and Expansion
AKS Clothing quickly gained popularity on e-commerce platforms like Myntra, Jabong, and Limeroad. Nidhi’s strategy of introducing new collections every two weeks, inspired by Zara’s fast-fashion model, kept the brand fresh and in demand. By 2015, operations expanded to a rented basement to accommodate growing inventory.
Overcoming Challenges
Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, Nidhi managed business operations while caring for her seven-month-old daughter. With support from her husband, Satpal Yadav, they frequently traveled to Jaipur to source materials, often working late into the night to fulfill orders.
Innovations and Sustainability
During the COVID-19 pandemic, AKS Clothing adapted by producing masks and PPE kits. The brand also introduced a mother-child collection, utilizing upcycled materials to reduce waste.
Current Status and Future Plans
As of 2024, AKS Clothing has achieved a revenue of ₹300 crore, with aspirations to reach ₹500 crore by the end of the fiscal year. The brand continues to focus on affordable fashion, sustainability, and empowering women through its offerings.
Nidhi Yadav’s story exemplifies how passion, resilience, and innovation can transform a modest startup into a leading fashion brand in India.
