The kaftan queen

Inspired by colours, textures and prints, Walker’s kaftans are works of art “created with absolute love”. A self described “Indian princess living in Joburg” it all started when Walker bought some beautiful Indian saris in India with the idea of making curtains but kaftans are what emerged. The go-to girl for anything exotic, in her hot pink pom pom earrings, tasseled top and neon lipstick, Walker is somewhat of a style goddess, and it’s no wonder that her kaftans — not just for the beach, but for everyday wear — have become covetable not just nationally, but for international customers. Walker’s garments will soon be available from a retail store in London. A visit to her studio, a treasure trove of tropical delight, is an experience to be relished.

The one indulgence you would never forgo? My yearly September trips to India. I always go for two weeks with my mother and we get the best suite at Jas Villas in Jaipur, The Pink City. It’s owned by a real Indian princess and is pricey but very authentic with all the beautiful bells and whistles. It’s a mix of business and pleasure but it’s where I find my inspiration. A once in a lifetime spoil.

The grooming staples you are never without are… Lady Danger lipstick by MAC. I can walk out of the house with not an ounce of other makeup on but just wearing that. Also, the flower hair scrunchie that I make. Plus, my Dermanceutic skincare regime. I’m a beach babe and love the sun and it fixes my pigmentation.

Your all-time favourite gadget? My Samsung phone — I run all my business and social media from it. And my new Yoco credit card machine — it’s very convenient for sales!

A possession that you would never part with? My hand-painted tropical safari dinner service painted by my mom — she lives in Knysna.

Your favourite drink? Definitely a glass of red wine, any good bottle of cabernet sauvignon and in summertime an Aperol Spritz.

The restaurant you frequent most often? Cnr Cafe in Craighall Park — for the hot owner (my husband)! My favourite dish there is the Caesar Salad.

Your personal style signifier? Print on print. Bright, bold statements and Lady Danger lips.

The last thing you bought and loved? A Missoni-inspired dress from Zara. Also, I sourced some wild animal-print fabric, which I make beach bags out of. I just re-covered two old armchairs in them and they look fabulous.

Your favourite piece of jewellery and why? My massive purple crescent beaded earrings from Brass.

An unforgettable place you’ve travelled to in the past year? India stole my heart — I really feel like a blonde-haired, blue-eyed Indian.

The book on your bedside table? Holy Cow: An Indian Adventure by Sarah Macdonald, which is  about a woman who travels to India to find herself. Also, Gypset Living by Julia Chaplin, which is filled with amazing photos of the fascinating, dazzling homes and haunts of the bohemian artists, designers and bons vivants.

The last meal that truly impressed you? We went to Glory in Melville and the Bahau chicken roll was delicious. It’s street style food with explosive flavours

The thing you are eyeing next? Definitely one of the divine cushions, maybe the cheetah, from the new Ardmore collection.

The one thing you will always find in your fridge? Wine and at this time of year, nectarines.

The best gift you’ve given recently? I love to gift my own collections. I recently gave one of my latest tropical safari kaftans with bright orange pom poms  as a present to a friend.

And the best one you’ve received? My home. I feel thankful to have a beautiful open space that I can fill with all my favourite things. It’s my sanctuary.

The place that inspires you and why? Any crammed, tiny, jam-packed fabric shop filled with jingles, pom poms, frills and trims. I could spend hours there. The Oriental Plaza has lots of places like that. I love the smells, have the obligatory samosa and feel like I am home.

A recent special find or discovery? An awesome secondhand/antique store in Parkhurst called Redecorate. They are extremely helpful and professional and it was a wonderful experience to purchase a cabinet from them, which they also resprayed in purple for me.

The last item you added to your wardrobe? A beautiful pair of Nike trainers, electric orange and lime green with all hopes  that I might use them one day!

Favourite city and why? Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) in southern Vietnam. I loved the street food, the shopping and the tropical air. Delhi is wonderful for the sights, sounds and colours and also Joburg for the buzz, the people and the creativity on every street corner.