New Delhi, July 9 -- Long before Indian designers began appearing on the runways of international couture shows, Indian ateliers had already made a name for themselves by creating exquisite craftsmanship for luxury European brands. Today, Indian designers are finally receiving global recognition for that very craftsmanship.

The official Paris Haute Couture calendar remains one of fashion's most exclusive institutions. When India's celebrated designer Rahul Mishra unveiled 'Devi: The Eternal Muse' at Paris Haute Couture Week, the world took notice. The collection blended modern fashion with India's temple art and sculpture.

According to Mishra, the collection was inspired by the visual language of Indian temple sculptures, particularly the depictions of goddesses, apsaras and celestial figures. The runway featured garments in shades of stone grey, ivory, black, beige and antique gold.

Businesswoman Isha Ambani attended the show wearing a custom metallic grey Rahul Mishra couture ensemble featuring sculptural embroidery and a sheer draped stole. American rapper Cardi B wore a custom ivory couture look inspired by the collection. The creation drew inspiration from the 12th-century sculpture of Mohini at the Chennakeshava Temple in Belur. Interestingly, this Kanpur-born designer became the first Indian designer to be invited to present on the official Paris Haute Couture Week calendar in 2020.

Another acclaimed Indian designer, Manish Malhotra, who lost his mother in March 2026, paid tribute to her unwavering faith in him and to his childhood through his collection, 'Maa'. Bringing his signature opulence to Paris Haute Couture Week, Malhotra explored the ideas of protection and liberation through structured silhouettes, fluid drapes and intricate embroidery. The collection merged Indian textile heritage, sentiment and craftsmanship.

His debut couture collection drew a high-profile audience with global fashion powerhouse Anna Wintour seated in the front row. Isha Ambani, Karan Johar and Chinese actress Fan Bingbing were also in attendance.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.