AN-Y1 Exclusive: How Sister Duo Anu Hinduja & Nandita Mahtani Are Redefining Global Luxury Fashion

From Motorsport to High Fashion – Anu Hinduja & Nandita Mahtani on AN-Y1’s Bold Fusion of Speed, Style & Quiet Luxury

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What happens when two powerhouse sisters, each with an impeccable eye for design and a global perspective on style, join forces? You get AN-Y1, a brand that seamlessly blends timeless luxury, high-performance aesthetics, and effortless sophistication.

Founded by Anu Hinduja and Nandita Mahtani, AN-Y1 isn’t just another fashion label—it’s a statement. With influences drawn from motorsport, contemporary luxury, and an ever-evolving global lifestyle, AN-Y1 is crafted for women who navigate the world with confidence, ambition, and style.

From impeccable tailoring to high-quality fabrics and a distinctive collaboration with Gulf Oil, AN-Y1 is a unique fusion of heritage, innovation, and bold femininity. In this exclusive interview with StylishLondonLife.com, Anu and Nandita open up about their creative journey, inspirations, and what makes AN-Y1 the future of effortless luxury.

The Interview

THE BEGINNING OF AN-Y1: VISION, LEGACY & PHILOSOPHY

Two sisters, one vision, and a world of possibilities. What was the exact moment you both knew AN-Y1 had to happen?

AH: While walking through central London, I noticed so many people wearing T-shirts featuring the Gulf logo. It was a moment of inspiration—seeing how a heritage brand could resonate so strongly in everyday fashion sparked the idea to kick-start AN-Y1.

NM: As Anu mentioned, she was initially inspired and shared the idea with me, and I resonated with it immediately. Being a huge F1 fan, it was such an exciting concept that I couldn't miss the opportunity to be part of it.

AN-Y1 is more than a fashion label—it feels like a movement. What's the deeper meaning behind the name, and how does it reflect your global vision?

AH: AN-Y1 is more than just a fashion label—it's a movement. The name itself reflects our core philosophy: 'for anyone.' Our vision is to create unisex fashion that transcends boundaries, making it accessible to everyone. I saw a growing demand for F1-inspired fashion, a trend waiting to be born. With our roots in motorsport, we initially sponsored McLaren and are now proud partners with Williams, further solidifying our connection to the racing world.

NM: We saw a gap in the market—F1 is as much about the scene as it is about the sport, yet the fashion element was missing. We wanted to create a seamless fashion lifestyle brand that captures the speed, energy, and aesthetic of motorsport.

Your backgrounds are deeply rooted in heritage, entrepreneurship, and luxury. How does the Gulf Oil legacy influence your approach to fashion and business?

AH: We have drawn deep inspiration from Gulf's rich racing heritage, incorporating its iconic light blue and orange colours as the signature elements of our collection. The legacy of Gulf Oil represents innovation, endurance, and timeless style—values that we infuse into AN-Y1. This connection allows us to bridge the worlds of motorsport, fashion, and culture, creating a brand that resonates with a global audience and the diaspora.

Fashion brands often have a signature—whether it's a silhouette, a mood, or a material. What is the essence of AN-Y1 that makes it instantly recognisable?

AH: The essence of AN-Y1 lies in our iconic jackets, which serve as the USP of our collection. From the leather Moto to the racer and bomber jackets, these statement pieces define our brand's aesthetic—bold, timeless, and effortlessly cool.

NM: Yes, as Anu mentioned, I believe our signature is bold yet refined. Our pieces blend motorsport influence with quiet luxury, creating a distinctive aesthetic. Our jackets, in particular, have already made a mark, worn by notable figures like Amy Jackson, Princess Beatrice and Carmen Jorda.

FABRICS, CRAFTSMANSHIP & THE ART OF DRESSING

Luxury is as much about how something feels as how it looks. Can you tell us about the fabrics you've chosen for AN-Y1 and what makes them exceptional?

AH: Luxury is not just about appearance—it's about how it feels. At AN-Y1, we are committed to sourcing only premium fabrics that are sustainable, durable, and exceptionally comfortable against the skin. Every material we choose reflects our dedication to quality and craftsmanship.

NM: Our key materials include high-quality leather, Italian silk, cashmere, and recycled brushed cotton, each chosen for its superior craftsmanship and timeless appeal. Every piece is designed to embody quiet luxury while maintaining a conscious approach to fashion.

Sustainability and conscious luxury are shaping the future of fashion. How does AN-Y1 approach material selection and responsible craftsmanship?

NM: At AN-Y1, sustainability and conscious luxury are at the core of our brand ethos. We take a mindful approach to our supply chain and production, ensuring that every step aligns with our commitment to responsible craftsmanship. As a non-seasonal brand, we focus on quality over quantity, releasing limited, exclusive capsule collections twice a year. This approach not only reduces waste but also ensures that each piece is timeless, considered, and crafted to last.

Silhouettes can define a brand's DNA. What are the signature styles of AN-Y1 that women will gravitate toward season after season?

AH: Our iconic silhouettes include statement jackets—such as the leather Moto, racer, and bomber jackets—crafted with applique logos.

Do you design with a specific woman in mind, or is AN-Y1 about versatility—pieces that adapt to the ever-evolving global lifestyle?

NM: AN-Y1 is designed for strong, confident individuals—both women and men—who have a bold personality and a passion for F1, sports, and fashion. Our pieces are not just about style; they reflect a lifestyle that blends performance, elegance, and edge. While we celebrate individuality, versatility is key—our designs are made to adapt effortlessly to the ever-evolving global lifestyle, offering timeless luxury that moves with you.

AH: "AN-Y1 is more than just a fashion label—it's a movement. The name itself reflects our core philosophy: 'for anyone'."

STYLE WITHOUT BORDERS: THE AN-Y1 WOMAN

The AN-Y1 woman isn't defined by geography—she's global, just like your vision. How do you design for someone who moves seamlessly between London, Dubai, Paris, and beyond?

AH: We design with a global lifestyle in mind, creating effortless, transitional pieces that adapt seamlessly to different settings. Versatility is key—our collections feature easy-to-wear silhouettes that can be styled together effortlessly day to evening.

NM: We keep ourselves in mind when designing—we don't create anything we wouldn't personally wear. There's something for each of us in the collection, ensuring that every piece is both stylish and functional for the modern, on-the-go woman.

If AN-Y1 were a destination, where would it be? A rooftop in Manhattan, a private villa in the Maldives, or a members-only lounge in Milan?

AH & NM: A rooftop in Manhattan—but also the Middle East and India, reflecting AN-Y1's global platform. It's a new world, forward-thinking and dynamic, just like our concept and collection.

Which city do you think has the most effortlessly stylish women, and what is it about their approach to fashion that resonates with you?

AH & NM London, Milan and Dubai

If the world is your runway, what are the three essential AN-Y1 pieces every woman should have in her suitcase?

AH: The cashmere tracksuit, silk jumpsuit and a leather bomber jacket.

NM: The Moto jacket, silk jumpsuit and the denim jacket for its versatility.

LUXURY, REINVENTED

Luxury used to mean exclusivity—now it's about experience and ease. What does modern luxury mean to you, and how does AN-Y1 embody that?

AH: To me, modern luxury is defined by quiet luxury—it's about quality, craftsmanship, and timeless appeal.

NM: The three essential AN-Y1 pieces every woman should have in her suitcase are the Moto jacket for its bold edge, the silk jumpsuit for effortless elegance, and the denim jacket for its versatility.

In a world obsessed with fast fashion, AN-Y1 feels refreshingly slow—intentional, curated, and timeless. Was that a conscious decision from the start?

AH: Yes, this was a conscious decision from the start. I have always believed in creating a classic, timeless collection—one that doesn't follow fleeting trends or end up in seasonal markdowns. AN-Y1 is about intentional design, curated pieces, and lasting quality. Our approach ensures that every piece remains relevant, effortless, and enduring, embodying the essence of quiet luxury.

There's something incredibly powerful about fashion that doesn't just follow trends but defines them. What do you believe AN-Y1 is bringing to the luxury space that hasn't been seen before?

AH: AN-Y1 is pioneering a new space in luxury as one of the first F1 and motorsport-inspired fashion brands. Just as my first brand, Ananya, introduced the UK to luxury kaftans, AN-Y1 brings a fresh perspective to the industry—blending the world of motorsport with quiet luxury and timeless design. I've always been drawn to creating brands that are both aspirational and innovative, and I embrace the challenge of educating the market on something entirely new.

NM: I believe fashion is about reinventing through styling. Classic AN-Y1 pieces aren't about following trends—they're about setting the stage for a new era of luxury fashion, blending timeless design with a modern, effortless edge.

NM: " AN-Y1 is designed for strong, confident individuals—both women and men—who have a bold personality and a passion for F1, sports, and fashion."

SISTERHOOD & STYLE: THE FOUNDERS' DYNAMIC

You're sisters, business partners, and visionaries. Who's the creative risk-taker, and who keeps things grounded?

AH: We have a great balance of keeping each other grounded and both have moments of creative risk taking.

NM: I agree with Anu—we balance each other out. Being sisters, we have a lot of fun working together, and our different creative ideas have been instrumental in helping the brand grow.

Do you ever look at a design and think, "That's so Anu" or "That's classic Nandita"? How do your personalities show up in the collection?

AH: I would say I am more classic, whilst Nandita sports more of an LA style

NM: In every piece, there's a bit of both of us. My style blends sporty and classic depending on my mood

What's the one piece in your personal wardrobe that perfectly represents who you are? And how would you style it with AN-Y1?

AH: We both have a deep love for handbags and sneakers, and for us, nothing represents timeless luxury quite like a Hermès Kelly or Birkin bag. These iconic pieces perfectly complement AN-Y1's aesthetic, especially when styled with our signature bomber jackets.

NM: For me, it's the little black dress—classic, versatile, and effortless.

What's one style tip you each swear by that every woman should adopt immediately?

AH: Our ultimate style tip? To be confident in your skin and always prioritise comfort while staying effortlessly chic.

NM: Exactly! If you're comfortable, you're confident—style always starts with feeling great in what you wear.

NM: " The three essential AN-Y1 pieces every woman should have in her suitcase are the Moto jacket for its bold edge, the silk jumpsuit for effortless elegance, and the denim jacket for its versatility."

THE FUTURE OF AN-Y1: EXPANSION, INNOVATION & GLOBAL INFLUENCE

AN-Y1 is a new name, but it already feels iconic. Where do you see the brand in five years—global expansion, exclusive capsule collections, or something completely unexpected?

AH: In five years, we envision AN-Y1 establishing a strong presence in key stores across the European market while expanding into new regions such as the ROW, India, and Dubai. Our goal is to continue growing organically globally, bringing our unique blend of quiet luxury and motorsport-inspired fashion to a global audience.

NM: Alongside this expansion, we see AN-Y1 evolving through exclusive capsule collections and strategic collaborations that strengthen our brand identity. Ultimately, we want AN-Y1 to become a household name in luxury fashion

With a growing international audience, do you see AN-Y1 evolving beyond fashion—perhaps into lifestyle, accessories, or even collaborations outside the fashion industry?

AH: Yes, we would love to collaborate with lifestyle brands, home and accessories also.

What's the ultimate feeling or message you want women to take away from wearing AN-Y1?

AH: We want women to feel cool, bold, and confident when wearing AN-Y1.

NM: Effortlessly stylish and empowered in every moment—that's the ultimate feeling we want to inspire with AN-Y1.

And finally, the most important question of all: What's next?

AH: We have plenty of exciting launches on the horizon! From exclusive limited-edition capsule collections to new innovations in design, there's so much to look forward to. Keep an eye on our website for the latest drops—AN-Y1 is just getting started.

NM: We also have some exciting collaborations in the pipeline, which will further elevate AN-Y1's presence in the luxury fashion.

Shop the AN-Y1 Collection here

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