RAHUL MISHRA – Spring/Summer 2016 | FASHION INSIDER MAGAZINE

A Fine Line between Fashion and Art

October 16, 2015

By Lynn Quanjel

Photos by Valerio Mezzanotti

Paris, France – Rahul Mishra’s Spring/Summer 2016 collection is a mix of heavy structural pieces entitled the ‘fourth dimension’. The driving inspiration behind the Delhi-based designer is the creation of the universe and based on the principle of everything starting from a single point. From it everything develops. Rahul’s collection is a manifestation of this idea.

The designs are an array of experimental pieces. They combine modern 3-D printing techniques with traditional Indian craftsmanship. For Mishra this collection is about “enhancing 3-D with human hands”. This combination results in a unique mix of multidimensional forms.

Primarily the collection is set against a white canvas with accents of blue, yellow and pink pastels shades. Asymmetrical elements, transparent materials and structured patterns all grace the designs. One of the most prominent characteristics within the collection is the use of heavy structural detailing on the shoulders of selected pieces. They exist as a network of cell-like shapes to create one entity. The back of the dresses are an array of flowing pieces that are counterpoised with soft and flowing transparent materials, that veil the wearer in motion.

As the looks progress, Mishra incorporates delicate embroidered floral patterns in pink hues that are an ode to spring. They are set against intricate laser cut pieces. These pieces represent other elements of inspiration such as organic growth and natural beauty. Despite the structural artistic element within the pieces, there is very much a sense of wearability echoed throughout some the garments that include, bomber jackets and pleated skirts. This is what creates that element of sports luxe.

The Rahul Mishra collection is truly inspiring as it encourages us to rethink the relationship between modern and traditional production techniques and how the two can complement one another. The pieces are a celebration of traditional Indian textiles and craftsmanship, which causes us to rethink the relationship between textile designer and fashion and the importance of fabric production within a design.