Gaurav Gupta is transforming the global perception of Indian fashion. From showcasing his designs at Paris Haute Couture to dressing Beyoncé for her Renaissance tour, Gupta’s influence is undeniable. His debut ready-to-wear collection is now available on his international e-commerce site, as well as in luxury retailers like Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, and Moda Operandi, along with select stores in Turkey and Kuwait. This marks a significant expansion for the eponymous brand.
The rise of Gupta coincides with a growing appreciation for Indian craftsmanship and design. Other Indian designers, such as Falguni Shane Peacock and Sabyasachi Mukherjee, are also making waves internationally. Mukherjee opened a flagship store in New York City’s West Village, while Peacock returned to New York Fashion Week. Rahul Mishra, backed by Reliance Brands Limited (RBL), launched his contemporary label AFEW Rahul Mishra during Paris Fashion Week, further demonstrating India’s ambition to establish a global fashion presence. RBL and Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail have invested in various Indian labels over the past two years, solidifying this trend.
Gupta’s designs are characterized by their sculptural, architectural, and often fantastical aesthetic. He incorporates traditional Indian embroidery techniques, such as zardozi, which utilizes metallic threads, to create unique and visually striking pieces. This commitment to traditional techniques while embracing a modern vision sets Gupta apart. He aims to create a “new fantasy,” drawing inspiration from ancient Indian philosophies and presenting them in a futuristic and sophisticated manner. The resulting aesthetic is a compelling blend of surrealism, architecture, art, and Indian mythology. The ready-to-wear collection features a range of garments, from dresses and skirts to jackets, with prices varying from approximately £910 for a draped cocktail dress to £5,060 for the intricately embroidered Gilded Flight Tuxedo Dress.
A graduate of Central Saint Martins in London, Gupta debuted at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week in 2006, immediately captivating the fashion world with his innovative approach. He seamlessly blends traditional Indian draping techniques with modern boning and architectural cuts, resulting in garments that are both flattering and avant-garde. Gupta’s ability to sculpt and enhance any body type has cemented his reputation as a leading figure in Indian fashion.
