It's been a year filled with exciting fashion shows, but nothing quite hit the sweet spot yet. Was there a show which left me spellbound? I'd say no. After tirelessly hoping that the runway delights my senses, I had come far from the idea only to expect the same designs with small tweaks. But then, Abhinav Mishra—known for his stunning mirrorwork—delivered a show that not only exceeded my expectations but also reignited my love for the runway. A young veteran with a calm and composed demeanour, Mishra brought the capital down with a spectacle we’ve all been craving.
The set design was electric, the choreography was captivating, and the creations were nothing less than a breath of fresh air. Mishra unveiled his much-anticipated 2024 couture collection, Man In The Mirror, amidst the picturesque setting of Delhi’s Chattarpur Farmhouse. The show was a celebration of tradition with a contemporary twist, all set against a beautiful backdrop.
Abhinav Mishra, hailed as the king of mirror work, showcased his collection in a stunning outdoor setting that transported guests into a serene, starlit wonderland, evoking the vast beauty of a desert landscape. The show opened with soft pastel hues and gradually transitioned to bold, vibrant tones, accompanied by upbeat, foot-tapping tunes that kept the energy high throughout. Combining tradition with a modern twist, the show embraced the spirit of maximalism. Mishra, known for his love of colours, outdid himself with a vibrant palette—greens, yellows, and reds all juxtaposed with his signature pastel mirrorwork. But the real showstopper? A special segment called Kalbeliya, inspired by the folk dance of Rajasthan, honouring the Kalbeliya tribe’s lively culture. The burst of colours—red, yellow, and green—was a bold move, marking a new chapter in Mishra’s journey. The intricate garments featured nomadic and floral motifs, geometric patterns, and painstakingly detailed embroideries using pearls, sequins, beads, and of course, mirrors. Luxurious fabrics, from silks to sheer materials, flowed gracefully on the runway, evoking elegance and charm, perfect for the upcoming festive season.
This show truly pushed the boundaries of creativity, and we were treated to a dazzling array of new designe and techniques. Lehengas were elevated with intricate detailing, we saw a touch of boho-chic while men’s stoles and shawls received a striking transformation, incorporating elaborate thread and mirrorwork that added a rich. The whole collection seemed to echo this effortless blend of old and new, with menswear standing out through its use of monotones. For women, the collection offered a stunning homage to timeless silhouettes—lehengas, kaftans, sharara sets, and floor-length anarkalis but with a twist. There was a real focus on inclusivity, with the introduction of veils and avant-garde jewellery styling. Think necklaces repurposed as belts, and mirrorwork used as playful tassels at the ends of shararas—each piece infused with a touch of boho-chic. The blouses were a real treat, heavily embroidered and full of personality, with styles ranging from daring deep-plunging necklines to trendy short kurtas. Even the kaftans, while traditional at heart, were infused with modern flair, making them perfect for every wedding function or celebration.
Turning our attention to the grooms, the experimentation was just as exciting. Vibrant colours took centre stage, reflecting the current trend in groomswear for bolder, more daring choices. And I have to say, the section dedicated to black shawls and stoles, adorned with intricate thread and mirrorwork, was a personal favourite of mine. These pieces exuded sophistication, with just the right amount of opulence, and felt like a refreshing take on classic menswear styles. It was this blend of tradition, innovation, and inclusivity that made the collection truly stand out.
Adding a touch of star power, Bollywood’s rising star Lakshya opened the show in a minimalist kurta set, crafted from pure silk with an ivory base, subtly embellished with Abhinav Mishra's signature tone-on-tone mirror work. OTT sensation Gurfateh Pirzada followed in a striking black ensemble from Mishra’s Kalbeliya collection, seamlessly blending black and gold elements with the designer’s iconic mirrorwork. The grand finale saw Sara Ali Khan close the show in a bespoke muted-tone outfit adorned with intricate floral motifs and, of course, Mishra’s signature mirror detailing.
Is this the boundary-breaking moment Indian fashion has been waiting for? We certainly think so!
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