Finally, sleep is finally being taken seriously, and getting a good night's sleep is considered the number one thing you can do for your health and longevity.
Gazal Nissar, founder of the iconic silk pajamas Gazalli, ensures you get a good night's sleep in her pajamas. If you oversleep, no problem! At Gazalli you can easily go from your bedroom to the lounge (and Zoom), which is the perfect outfit for a long flight! Kris Abbey sits down with Gazal to talk about making her big dream a reality
Please describe your journey to building the business you have today?
Throughout my international HR career traveling across Europe and Asia, my journey to create Gazalli was driven by a commitment to integrating creativity with a larger purpose beyond fashion. These experiences sparked my desire for pajamas and loungewear that embody my belief in the power of relaxation and self-care. Despite my lack of fashion background, I embarked on a three-year self-taught journey, overcoming challenges from fabric sourcing to convincing manufacturers to work with a small startup. My amateur sketches became the starting point for turning dreams into reality while dealing with the global COVID-19 pandemic. My mother sadly passed away before Gazalli was launched, but her legacy inspired me to bring Gazalli back to life in 2023 as a tribute to her, transforming it into more than just a brand, but a tribute to a brand that has inspired generations. Tribute to tough women.
What do you love most about what you do?
At Gazalli, my passion is design. This is the core of the brand, the marriage of creativity and purpose. Making each piece is an exciting journey, from concept to creation, I get to bring my vision to life. Designing allows me to infuse each garment with the essence of relaxation, luxury and empowerment that Gazalli embodies.
What's the hardest part of it?
The challenge is balancing design creativity with the demands of running a business in the dynamic fashion industry. Solving this problem requires wearing many hats, combining creative expression with pragmatic decision-making, ensuring that Gazalli's vision and values are reflected every step of the way.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
As a child, I wavered between aspiration to be a human rights lawyer and a fashion designer. Although I have an innate creativity and love for arts and crafts, I also have a strong desire to protect those who are bullied or abused. However, as I grew older, social influence and parental expectations led me to choose a field with a stable career trajectory, ultimately choosing the path of human resources.
Who has had the biggest impact on your career/business?
The biggest influence on my career and business journey has undoubtedly been my mother. Her unwavering support, selflessness, and strength have been my guiding light, inspiring me to pursue my dreams in the face of adversity. Her death before Ghazali was launched was a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring her legacy through perseverance and determination. Her values of compassion, resilience, and devotion to others continue to influence every decision I make, driving Ghazali’s mission to make a positive impact for people and the planet.
What was the inspiration behind Gazalli?
Inspired by a deep appreciation for relaxation and self-care, Gazalli drives the creation of luxurious sleepwear and loungewear designed to embody comfort and luxury. The brand draws on the legacy of strong, selfless women like my mother, with a strong commitment to social responsibility and empowerment.
Summarize Ghazali in one or two sentences.
Gazalli is a luxury sleepwear brand born out of a passion for relaxation and self-care, dedicated to crafting exquisite, handcrafted pieces that embody elegance, versatility and sustainability.
What is the best feature of your eye masks?
Gazalli Eye Masks stand out for their premium silk construction and silk filling, which provide unparalleled comfort and luxurious softness, ensuring a blissful, uninterrupted rest.
It’s no secret that the fashion industry is a major polluter, and I know you’re doing your part, but how can we get more brands to take more notice?
Brands can start by adopting sustainable practices throughout their supply chain, including sourcing environmentally friendly materials, minimizing waste and reducing carbon emissions. It’s also crucial to work with suppliers to ensure ethical working conditions and fair wages.
What is your reason?
Ghazali’s “why” is rooted in a deep belief in the power of relaxation, self-care, and empowerment. We strive to create luxurious sleepwear and loungewear that not only make our customers feel comfortable and elegant, but also reflect our commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Our mission is to inspire individuals to cherish moments of respite, celebrate self-expression, and make a positive impact on people and the planet, paying tribute to the legacy of the strong, selfless women who inspire us. Gazalli was created to inject a touch of luxury and awareness into everyday life, making bedtime a dream and leisure an art form, while cultivating a brighter, more inclusive future.
What's your biggest health tip?
My biggest health advice is to prioritize self-care and relaxation. Whether through quality sleep, mindfulness practices, or moments of relaxation, prioritizing self-care allows us to recharge, reduce stress, and cultivate a healthier mind and body.
What's your favorite pastime?
My favorite pastimes are taking long walks, curling up with a good book, and enjoying moments of self-care. These activities bring me a sense of calm, relaxation and energy, allowing me to relax and rejuvenate amidst the demands of life.
What books are on your nightstand?
Next to my bed, I keep a collection of inspiring books that fuel my creativity and give me insights into the mysteries of life:
1. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho – A timeless story of adventure and self-discovery that reminds me to follow my dreams and listen to my inner calling.
2. “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle – This transformative guide to spiritual enlightenment encouraged me to embrace the present moment and find peace in the here and now.
3. “Man's Search for Meaning” by Viktor E. Frankl – A profound exploration of the human spirit and resilience in the face of adversity, reminding me of the importance of finding meaning and purpose amid life’s challenges.
4. “Mrs. Chic” by Jennifer L. Scott – A captivating exploration of French elegance and simplicity, offering practical tips for cultivating a stylish and elegant life.
5. “The Forty Rules of Love” by Elif Shafak – A compelling novel that weaves together the stories of Rumi and modern women, exploring themes of love, spirituality, and the transformative power of connection.
These books are a source of inspiration and wisdom, guiding me on a journey of self-discovery, creativity, and personal growth.
What's the last thing you do before going to bed every night?
My last ritual before going to bed is a prayer of thanksgiving. With a heart filled with gratitude, I reflect on the blessings of this day, acknowledging the beauty of both ordinary and extraordinary moments. I am grateful for the love, joy, and experiences that enrich my life and cultivate a sense of peace and contentment.
What is your fashion staple?
My black dress is my ultimate fashion staple, timeless and versatile. It has been a fixture in my wardrobe for the past 20 years, transitioning seamlessly with seasons and occasions. Whether paired with casual or formal separates, it forms the basis of countless stylish ensembles, embodying elegance and adaptability.
What is the best day of your life?
The best day of my life was undoubtedly the day I created Gazalli, which fulfilled my dream of making pieces for strong and beautiful women while also making a positive contribution to humanity and Mother Earth. It represents the culmination of my passion, purpose, and commitment to making meaningful change in the world.
What's the bravest thing you've ever done?
Founding Gazalli was the bravest adventure of my life, requiring courage, resilience and unwavering determination in the face of challenges and uncertainties. Despite the risks, driven by a strong sense of purpose and belief in Gazalli's mission, I jumped at the chance to pursue my passion and turn my vision into reality.
What’s the biggest piece of advice you can give to a young designer or businessperson?
The biggest advice I can give to a young designer or businessperson is to embrace resilience and perseverance. Building a successful career or career requires dedication, hard work, and the ability to overcome obstacles and setbacks along the way. Stay focused on your goals, believe in your vision, and don't be afraid to take risks or make mistakes. Even in the face of adversity, learn from failures, adapt to challenges, and keep moving forward. Develop a growth mindset, stay flexible in your approach, and never lose sight of your passion and goals. From personal experience, I have learned that true character is formed in the face of adversity, and it is our response to those challenges that truly determines our journey.
access Ghazali tilt more
Read more health stories here
