Meet Our Founder

With a rich background in fashion and an innate flair for design, Sonika Nanda has always possessed an exceptional eye for effortless elegance. She firmly believes that the right accessory can transform a basic ensemble, elevating it from everyday casual to timelessly chic.

“It's incredibly gratifying to see my shawls adorn women during their most memorable moments, whether it's a proud mother at a wedding, a radiant group of bridesmaids, a glamorous date night, or as a trusted travel accessory.”

 - Sonika Nanda

For over three decades now, the North Shore of Long island, NY has been home for Sonika. You can see the influence of this region in the understated elegance of her designs, the choice of her colors reflecting the change of seasons, all in a beautiful blend with her traditional Indian Heritage. Sonika's creations embody a unique fusion of cultures—distinctly original, yet perfectly attuned to a wide aesthetic.

A Shawl by Sonika is the quintessential accessory for the well-traveled woman with discerning taste. Sonika's creations, which incorporate traditional Indian embroideries and motifs in subtle shades and pastel hues, reflect her deep-rooted Indian heritage. They are designed to suit the lifestyle and taste of the urban woman and blend the essence of the East with the sophistication of the West

What truly distinguishes Shawls by Sonika is the brand's ethos. Each piece is meticulously curated, with some being unique, one-of-a-kind creations, and others designed by Sonika herself. Produced in small batches, these shawls are crafted using the local cottage industry and artisans of Kashmir, consciously avoiding mass production.

Sonika takes immense pride in her commitment to social responsibility, seamlessly integrating her sales with causes that give back to the community. In her unique way, she strives to make a meaningful impact.

Whether you're indulging yourself or seeking the perfect gift for a woman of any age, A Shawl by Sonika is an exquisite wrap that embraces elegance with a purpose.

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The Timeless Elegance of Shawls

Originating in ancient Mesopotamia and India a shawl is a quintessential part of Indian culture. The Northern part of India always has a cold winter, so a shawl has always been a staple accessory for the men & women who live there. There is no dearth of colors, embroideries, and combinations when it comes to an Indian Shawl. You can have them in the most basic of affordable wool or a cotton yarn or you can have them in the softest of pashmina which is made on a traditional Hand loom. A beautiful pure Pashmina shawl is a symbol of luxury and elegance. Made from the soft undercoat of the Himalayan mountain goat, these shawls became highly sought after by European aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries. Owning one or a few and flaunting them on special occasions is very natural in Indian families. They are handwoven by skilled artisans in the Kashmir region of India and the likes of which are heirloom pieces that are passed on in families through generations.

Sonika's shawls are more for the urban/suburban global woman of today and in a more wearable, affordable version. They make for a great travel companion since they are so lightweight & warm, plus they elevate any outfit without much effort. Shawls have been cherished for millennia and have graced the shoulders of the elite and discerning across the globe.