The Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, also known as the Reliance Foundation Cultural Centre, is currently hosting a groundbreaking exhibition that explores the profound impact of Indian dress and textiles on the global fashion industry. The exhibition, titled ‘India in Fashion: The Impact of Indian Dress and Textiles on the Fashionable Imagination,’ runs from April 03 to June 04, 2023, in Mumbai.
Curated by Hamish Bowles, global editor-at-large for Vogue and editor-in-chief of The World of Interiors, and designed by Patrick Kinmonth with Rooshad Shroff, this exhibition marks a significant milestone as it traces the birth and development of the contemporary Indian fashion community. It provides a comprehensive overview of Indian fashion’s evolution over the centuries and its ongoing influence on the global fashion landscape.
The exhibition showcases over 140 stunning fashion design ideas that span from the 18th to the 21st centuries. From iconic Western couture to ready-to-wear designs inspired by India, the exhibition presents a captivating array of garments that embody the fusion of traditional Indian aesthetics with modern fashion illustrations. India’s fashion design experts like Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, Anamika Khanna, Anita Dongre, and Anuradha Vakil are featured alongside international fashion icons such as Elsa Schiaparelli, Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel, Jean-Philippe Worth, and Mainbocher. The diverse range of designs on display reflects not only the rich tapestry of Indian fashion and its global influence, but also some of the bests of fashion 2023.
India in Fashion at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre is not just an exhibition; it is a celebration of India’s vibrant fashion heritage and its enduring impact on the global fashion landscape. It provides visitors with a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history, craftsmanship, and innovation of Indian fashion. By showcasing the intricate beauty of Indian textiles, the exhibition highlights how India’s sartorial and textile traditions have inspired and influenced royal courts, European haute couture, contemporary design visionaries, and even global fast fashion.
For fashion enthusiasts, art lovers, and cultural explorers, India in Fashion offers a must-visit experience. Beyond the visual spectacle, the exhibition also offers a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of Indian fashion. It invites visitors to engage with the stories behind the garments, exploring the historical contexts and the narratives they convey.