Kulsum Shadab Wahab interview© Instagram

#HELLOHighLife: Kulsum Shadab Wahab On All Things Luxury

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‘Luxury’ is for the discerning. It’s defined not just by a price tag but more so by exquisite taste and an eye for experiences that stand out. Nine fashion-forward, glamorous ladies share their most luxurious escapades and choices of the year with HELLO!


Philanthropist, Executive Director of Hothur Foundation and founder of Ara Lumiere, Kulsum Shadab Wahab talks about what luxury means to her.

Luxury to me: “Life is filled with smaller luxuries that work along the lines of kind gestures and love, which together make it more than fulfilling. That’s true luxury to me — a life filled with compassion and love.”

Most lavish holiday this year: “Taormina in Sicily, Italy, is probably the most memorable holiday I went on. The grand, dramatic stretch of coastline is rich in history, with sunsets that go with the relaxing Mediterranean lifestyle. I was in awe.”

Most luxurious fashion purchase: “There’s this beautiful piece of jewellery from Boucheron that I absolutely adore. It’s very detailed, made with sustainable metals and stones, and is a flawless piece through and through.”

A splendid culinary experience: “Dans le Noir in Paris was an unforgettable and emotional experience. It’s funded by the Paul Guinot Foundation for Blind People, so the restaurant is entirely staffed by the visually impaired. You dine in pitch darkness, which makes it a whole new sensory experience.”

Most luxurious bucket list item: Definitely some more Schiaparelli accessories from their new season. Schiaparelli is the true essence of inspiration, with their surreal and eccentric approach to fashion.

My favourite high-end labels: “I genuinely love trying different emerging designers that spotlight the young. They tend to be innovative. But my heart truly lies in local designers from different countries. It implores you to check out different cultures and styles. It’s incredibly inspiring.”

My favourite luxurista:Princess Diana was a true icon and inspirational. Her legacy extends beyond fashion. She’s arguably the greatest icon of the 20th century as she exhibited royalty and elegance through such great empathy.”

This story has been adapted for the website from a story that was originally published in HELLO! India’s December 2022 issue. Get your hands on the latest issue right here!