Vishesh Khanna and AK-OK reflect a clear shift in how Indian consumers view luxury fashion. Instead of clothes tied to weddings or formal events, buyers now want pieces they can wear often. AK-OK was created to meet that demand. At the centre of the brand is Vishesh Khanna, a 28-year-old co-founder who focuses on design thinking, structure, and long-term growth.

AK-OK launched in 2020, a difficult year for fashion retail. Despite the timing, the brand found steady demand. It focused on ready-to-wear clothing made with premium fabrics but simple forms. The goal was clear from the start. Build clothes that feel luxurious but fit daily life.

The meaning behind the brand name

The name AK-OK comes from the term “A-OK,” used in space missions to confirm that all systems work as expected. For Vishesh Khanna and his brother Viraj Khanna, the phrase gained personal meaning during a hard period at home. Their mother, designer Anamika Khanna, faced a serious health issue at the time.

During that phase, the phrase “everything will be AK-OK” became a source of comfort. When the brothers later discussed starting a brand, the name stayed. It reflected calm, hope, and acceptance. These ideas still guide how the brand presents itself.

Education and early exposure

Vishesh Khanna studied social science and communication design at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. His brother Viraj Khanna studied business at the same university. Their education gave them different ways of thinking.

After college, both worked within the Anamika Khanna label. They spent time across teams to understand design, production, and planning. This period helped them spot a clear gap in the market. Customers wanted luxury fabrics and strong design, but without heavy styling or fixed occasions.

Launching AK-OK in the pret space

AK-OK was created as a ready-to-wear extension of the Anamika Khanna brand. It was not meant to replace couture or bridal wear. Instead, it focused on pret clothing that could move between settings.

The collections rely on fabrics like silk and crepe. The silhouettes stay relaxed. The clothes do not depend on trends or seasonal events. According to Vishesh Khanna, the aim is to design garments that last beyond one moment.

The design process starts with a theme. Vishesh Khanna decides what the collection should express. Research follows. That research shapes colour, fabric, and form. The team then works through production without adding excess detail.

Retail growth across India

Since launch, AK-OK has expanded across major Indian cities. The brand has retail presence in Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ludhiana, and other markets. It is also stocked in multi-designer stores.

Each store follows the same clean layout. The focus stays on the product rather than display. Industry watchers note that this approach matches the brand’s clothing style, which avoids excess.

Overseas presence and global outlook

AK-OK is also available in London and Los Angeles. This overseas presence ties back to the founders’ education and exposure. It also helps the brand reach Indian buyers living abroad.

The international presence remains limited but stable. The brand has avoided fast expansion. Instead, it has focused on consistent supply and repeat buyers.

Reliance Brands partnership

In 2021, Reliance Brands Limited partnered with Anamika Khanna to own and grow AK-OK. The move gave the brand access to retail support, logistics, and planning systems.

Darshan Mehta, President and CEO of Reliance Retail Brands, has spoken about the balance between the two founders. He has highlighted Vishesh Khanna’s structured thinking and Viraj Khanna’s creative approach. This mix has shaped decisions around production planning and future categories.

Industry sources suggest that AK-OK is working on expanding its men’s wear line. The segment has shown steady demand in the premium market, especially for clean and flexible clothing.

Creative freedom and role of Anamika Khanna

Though AK-OK is linked to a well-known designer name, Vishesh Khanna has stated that the founders control decisions. Anamika Khanna offers guidance when asked, but she does not restrict design or direction.

This freedom has helped AK-OK stand as an independent brand rather than a secondary label. It has its own identity, tone, and customer base.

Recent updates and future focus

As of early 2025, AK-OK continues to refine its collections rather than expand fast. The focus remains on fit, fabric quality, and wearability. The brand is also reviewing production methods to reduce waste and improve efficiency.

While the company has not made public announcements on sustainability targets, industry insiders note a clear shift toward responsible sourcing and tighter inventory control.

Vishesh Khanna has stayed away from public branding. He keeps a low profile and focuses on product and process. His role centres on clarity rather than visibility.

Where Vishesh Khanna stands today

At 28, Vishesh Khanna has co-built a luxury pret brand with national reach and global access. He has done so without chasing trends or scale at speed. The Vishesh Khanna story shows how India’s fashion market is changing.

Buyers now want clothes that feel premium but remain practical. AK-OK fits that space. Vishesh Khanna continues to shape the brand with a steady approach, clear thinking, and long-term focus.

FAQs

Q1. Who is Vishesh Khanna?
Vishesh Khanna is an Indian fashion entrepreneur and co-founder of the luxury pret brand AK-OK.

Q2. What is Vishesh Khanna’s age?
He is 28 years old.

Q3. What is AK-OK known for?
AK-OK is known for luxury ready-to-wear clothing with relaxed silhouettes and premium fabrics.

Q4. Is AK-OK available outside India?
Yes. AK-OK is available in international markets such as London and Los Angeles.