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Rahul Mishra was is inspired by the virtuous and magnificent world of creepies and crawlies that keep nature in constant bloom. The subtle beauty and fragility of small insects such as fireflies, moths, dragonflies, and even reptiles informed his pieces in a myriad of ways. It was not just the colours, magenta, lime-green, and saphire blue, but also their forms that he painstakingly imitated through hand-embroidery.
The opening look featured a faithful reproduction of a petri dish complete with fluttering dragonflies. Then the collection followed with designs inspired by traditional Indian window lattice patterns, including resplendent dresses and jackets — an interpretation that paid homage to a bygone era when such window casements welcomed insects into homes. Rare locusts, dragonflies, and reptilian motifs underwent a creative transformation, reemerging as appliqués on flamboyant gowns, opulent capes, and evening dresses.
Moths made their appearance on a round-shaped tulle dress, mimicking the glow of a lamp. A circular dress-shield was entirely embroidered with an intricate lattice of slithering snakes, while lizards peeked out from a black tulle dress.
Mishra’s designs pay homage to the delicate beauty of nature, coupled with a powerful message of strength and beauty. Each piece serves as a reminder of the alarming disappearance of reptiles and insects, highlighting the precarious state of biodiversity. These reflections arose from Mishra’s close connection to the Himalayan forest, where he owns a vacation house surrounded by countless species of insects, snakes, and diverse wildlife. His daughter’s curiosity about insects being perceived as nuisances in the city further fueled his observations.
The Indian designer passionately underscores that nature is our ultimate guardian, perpetually balancing the continuous evolution of every life form. Each and every piece was a reminder of how the of magic of nature comes accross through its beauty, intelligence and movements and organization.
