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Indian designers find their footing at Paris Haute Couture Week
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia /Culture & Society

Indian designers find their footing at Paris Haute Couture Week

From Asharq Al-Awsat · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • Indian designer Manish Malhotra made his debut at Paris Haute Couture Week, marking a significant moment for Indian representation in elite fashion.
  • Malhotra showcased a collection inspired by his late mother, highlighting India's rich heritage in textiles and craftsmanship.
  • His participation underscores a broader trend of Indian designers leveraging homegrown artisans to gain international recognition.

Indian designer Manish Malhotra has made a notable debut at Paris Haute Couture Week, a move described as "overdue" recognition for a country with a deep-rooted history in fashion craftsmanship. Malhotra, 59, is the fourth Indian designer to officially feature on the prestigious Paris calendar, joining Rahul Mishra, Gaurav Gupta, and Vaishali S.

I think it was long overdue. India is so culturally rich in terms of texture and textile, architecture, jewels, embroidery. It has such a heritage of kings and queens.

— Manish MalhotraCommenting on the significance of Indian representation at Paris Haute Couture Week.

Malhotra's collection, titled "Maa," was a deeply personal tribute to his late mother. The designs featured structured dresses that showcased India's rich cultural heritage, emphasizing textures, textiles, architecture, and intricate embroidery. He expressed that the moment was "high time" for India to be represented on such a prominent global stage, which traditionally catered to royalty but now serves celebrities and VIPs.

You know, I think it was high time.

— Manish MalhotraExpressing his view on the timing of Indian designers' prominence in global fashion.

His participation highlights a growing trend where Indian designers are increasingly harnessing the skills of local artisans. This allows them to challenge established Parisian fashion houses, which have long relied on Indian craftsmanship for their creations. The French Haute Couture and Fashion Federation (FHCF) has been actively encouraging diversification, inviting designers from beyond Europe and the West.

There's nothing bigger than Paris Haute Couture. This is the ultimate platform.

— Manish MalhotraDescribing the importance of Paris Haute Couture Week for designers.

Malhotra admitted to feeling nervous before his Paris debut, describing it as "the ultimate platform." He shared that his mother's story heavily influenced his collection, aiming to convey his current emotions to the Parisian audience. The opening piece featured a dramatic coat with sculptures depicting a boy and his mother, while another dress incorporated elaborate cut-outs symbolizing their embrace. Malhotra, who began his career in Bollywood costume design before moving into couture, has expanded his international ambitions with new lines and an overseas boutique in Dubai, and has dressed international stars like Rihanna and Jennifer Lopez.

After 35 years of working, what's the next challenge for me? Maybe an atelier in Paris, maybe a store in New York?

— Manish MalhotraReflecting on his future career ambitions.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Asharq Al-Awsat in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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