British fashion brand Vivienne Westwood is set to hold its inaugural fashion show in India, showcasing a collection at Mumbai's iconic Gateway of India. The event will highlight India's rich textile heritage, featuring hand-woven silks and Khadi cottons, which hold significant historical and cultural value within the country's retail and fashion sectors.
The collection will feature couture pieces crafted from natural Indian fabrics, including Khadi, a hand-spun textile closely associated with Mahatma Gandhi's movement for self-sufficiency. This initiative is a collaboration with the Department of Textiles, Government of Maharashtra, and Vivz Fashion School. Sourced from various regions of India, the fabrics are provided by Khadi India and Aaranya/Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh). Indian artisans have utilized traditional and sustainable techniques to create these textiles.
Khadi, derived from the term ‘Khaddar,’ is known for its handmade, coarse texture and its adaptability to diverse climates. Spun using a charkha (Indian spinning wheel), it played a pivotal role in India's independence movement, symbolizing self-reliance and economic empowerment.
Vivienne Westwood has consistently emphasized craftsmanship and heritage, incorporating artisanal fabrics into its designs. The brand's engagement with heritage production supports skilled artisans and promotes environmentally sustainable fabric-making practices.
The fashion show will be held at the Gateway of India in Mumbai. A cultural hub for both locals and tourists, the venue aligns perfectly with the event’s theme of celebrating traditional craftsmanship within India’s evolving retail and fashion landscape.
