Mishra’s Spring 2023 collection breathes new life into couture, utilizing a childlike sense of imagination and wonder. These pieces perfectly indulge those who played mermaids, imagining themselves with a shimmery shining tail or imagined dancing among the constellations while also appealing to the existentially curious side we discover as adults.
The beautifully crafted pieces bathed in maximalism serve much more than their aesthetic purposes. Mishra created the collection to explore the complexity and beauty of the cosmos and the connection we have to it as humans. Within the collection, it’s clear that some pieces represent specific elements like air, sea, land, and sky. There is detailing with feathers and earth-toned color palettes, while other looks represent more abstract concepts like the universe with regal stylings and swirling golden patterns. Every detail is so clearly intentional, with each piece telling an individual story of an overarching theme of the vast and magical world we inhabit.
When conceptualizing this, Mishra was intent on practicing cultural sustainability and circular design. Nearly every garment has a piece or accessory created and carefully selected with the help of Indian crafters. The South Asian representation and cultural importance this collection holds is an essential part of the story. Artistry and dedication are evident in every look in the structured shoulders, fully beaded and embroidered gowns, recycled fabrics, and transcendental designs. It is undeniably beautiful.
Rahul Mishra‘s Spring 2023 Couture collection closed with the final model floating across the runway draped in a jellyfish. Of course, it wasn’t an actual jellyfish and wasn’t trying to be. Instead, Mishra interpreted fantastic and ethereal subjects into whimsical, dreamy, and thoughtfully constructed garments with aid from more tangible details such as abstract cityscapes or bug appliques. This collection perfectly embodies exquisite fantasy, creative freedom, and inquisitiveness, complemented by superb craftsmanship. This is not the brand’s beginning nor end, yet an exciting future for Rahul Mishra.
Words by: Miia Popovics.
Graphic by: Josh Jamili.