Indian fashion designer Rahul Mishra is getting ready to showcase his latest collection at Paris Fashion Week, drawing inspiration from France and the works of 19th-century impressionist painter Claude Monet. Mishra is well-known for his artistic approach to depicting nature on his haute couture gowns, which feature vibrant embroidered floral designs and ornamental flourishes. His designs have graced the pages of leading fashion magazines and have been worn by celebrities like Cate Blanchett and Michelle Yeoh.
In his workshop near New Delhi, Mishra and his team of designers, tailors, and crafters have been meticulously adding the final touches to the “Cosmos” line, which will make its debut on the Parisian runway. Mishra describes himself as a dreamer, often getting lost in new worlds and fantasies, which he then shares with his team to create a common dream. His creative vision and imagination have gained him recognition in the fashion industry, particularly after winning the International Woolmark Prize in 2014. Mishra also became the first Indian designer to be featured in the French Fashion Federation’s haute couture program in 2020.
Since a young age, Mishra has found inspiration in nature. He would sketch flowers and natural scenery, fueling his passion for fashion despite his father’s encouragement to pursue a more stable career. Mishra studied at India’s National Institute of Design and later in Milan. His recent collections, including the “Tree of Life,” continue to showcase his deep connection with nature. Notably, one of the collection’s standout pieces is a sleeveless floral gown bursting with 120 colors, showcasing 5,000 hours of labor.
Mishra’s future plans include expanding his presence globally by launching a ready-to-wear collection in Europe. His first European boutique will open in London, as he aims to provide an alternative to fast fashion giants like Uniqlo and Zara. Mishra believes that India’s rich textile talent can be harnessed to create employment opportunities for millions of people worldwide.
For Mishra, each finished piece is a reflection of the struggle and doubt that comes with obsessing over every minute detail. He embraces mistakes and sees them as an integral part of the creative process. While the final fashion show is exciting, Mishra finds joy in the journey and the desire to bring something new to the world.
As Rahul Mishra gets ready to unveil his latest collection at Paris Fashion Week, it is clear that his talent and artistic imagination continue to push the boundaries of Indian haute couture. With a focus on nature-inspired designs and a determination to create employment opportunities, Mishra is poised to leave a lasting impact on the fashion industry.
Useful links:
1) Vogue India interview with Rahul Mishra
2) Woolmark Prize profile of Rahul Mishra
