Indian designer Vaishali Shadangule made a significant milestone in her career as she made her debut on the prestigious Paris Haute Couture Week calendar with her label Vaishali S. The highly anticipated show took place in the enchanting gardens of the Lycée Victor Duruy, providing a perfect backdrop for the introduction of Vaishali S. to a French audience for the first time.
What set Shadangule’s collection apart was her unique approach to haute couture. Departing from the usual opulent embroidery and shimmering details, she decided to focus on showcasing traditional hand-woven fabrics, particularly the exquisite khand. These fabrics served as the foundation for her designs, which beautifully embraced asymmetrical silhouettes and pleated volumes. Every element paid homage to Shadangule’s Indian roots, with the incorporation of the sari and macramé-like fabrics that added graceful details like fringes and airy sleeves, reminiscent of blooming gardens.
The models gracefully walked the runway in flat shoes, exuding a natural aura that perfectly complemented the organic theme of the collection. The makeup was kept simple and minimal, emphasizing the models’ inherent beauty. The dresses themselves were inspired by elements of nature, including butterfly wings, lush leaves, and the graceful emergence of mermaids from the sea. The color palette she chose was diverse, ranging from subtle whites and blacks to vibrant hues of violet, gold, maroon, and blueish green, creating a visually captivating experience.
The grand finale of the show featured a bride wearing a flowing, layered dress with sheer effects. This particular design reimagined traditional bridal wear through a contemporary lens, adding a touch of modernity and elegance.
Shadangule expressed her profound happiness and sense of responsibility in showcasing her collection at Paris Haute Couture Week for the first time. For her, it was essential to convey that India has so much more to offer in the world of fashion than just handmade fabrics and embroidery. Through her collection, she aimed to present the perspective of Indian fashion by skillfully blending fine looks and textures. As a designer from Madhya Pradesh, Shadangule actively works with more than 900 families in the region, playing a vital role in preserving traditional weaving workshops and artisanal skills.
The show in Paris came at a time when the world was grappling with the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite these difficulties, Shadangule’s brand not only survived but also experienced significant sales growth. According to her, this success can be attributed to a deep connection with nature and a reminder to slow down. The Fall/Winter 2021 collection, aptly titled ‘Breathe,’ reflects this naturalistic theme and places great emphasis on the importance of forging a new connection with nature.
Shadangule firmly believes that the true essence of couture lies in utilizing the craftsmanship of traditional fabrics. Her ultimate goal is to promote India’s rich textile heritage beyond its borders and showcase the immense talent and expertise present within the country.
Useful links:
Vaishali S. Official Website
Vogue India: Vaishali S. at Paris Fashion Week
