While there haven’t been any prominent “Indian Nude Fashion Shows” in the traditional sense, the Indian fashion scene is increasingly pushing boundaries and redefining the concept of a fashion show. Moving beyond traditional runways, designers are embracing unconventional locations and presentations that blur the lines between fashion, art, and performance.
Jacquemus’s outdoor spectacles in the lavender fields of France have inspired a global shift towards immersive experiences. This trend is resonating in India, where designers are seeking unique spaces to showcase their collections. Lovebirds, a brand helmed by Amrita Khanna and Gursi Singh, exemplifies this evolution. Their recent show at the Australian High Commission in Mumbai transformed the expansive lawns into an open-air gallery, echoing the brand’s artistic approach to clothing.
Their previous collection, showcased at Stir Art Gallery, explored themes of space and color, indicating a consistent interest in pushing creative boundaries. This commitment to innovation continued with their Spring/Summer 2023 show, a collaborative effort with artist couple Neil Ghose Balser and Doyel Joshi of Howareyoufeeling.studio. The collaboration centered around “The Circle,” a signature Lovebirds motif representing partnership and togetherness, core values of the brand.
This event transcended the conventional fashion show format, incorporating performance art. The artist couple interacted with a large spherical art piece, symbolizing the removal of art from traditional confines, mirroring Lovebirds’ liberation of fashion from the runway.
The Lovebirds show, alongside initiatives by brands like VegNonVeg and Huemn, signals a broader movement within the Indian fashion industry. Designers are embracing experimentation and collaboration, seeking alternative venues that foster a more inclusive and engaging experience. This shift allows fashion to interact with a wider audience, breaking free from the exclusivity often associated with the industry.
Lovebirds’ design philosophy aligns with this evolving landscape. They view their garments as works of art, emphasizing the importance of natural light and spatial context in showcasing their creations. The Australian High Commission, with its blend of lush greenery and modern architecture, provided the ideal backdrop for this vision.
This approach reflects a growing trend in Indian fashion: a departure from sterile showrooms and a move towards immersive environments that enhance the narrative of the collection. This shift not only elevates the viewing experience but also democratizes fashion, making it more accessible and engaging for a broader audience.
