1st April 2025. This evening, set against the backdrop of the historic Gateway of India, illuminated with vivid colours, Vivienne Westwood presented their first-ever fashion show in India to celebrate the country's rich artisanal textile heritage.
In partnership with the Department of Textiles, Govt. of Maharashtra and Vivz Fashion School Pvt. Ltd, the historic event unfolded against the backdrop of the iconic Mumbai landmark with a 50-metre runway spanning the Gateway.
The runway show presented a selection of Spring Summer 2025 Vivienne Westwood looks and special archive pieces, alongside a capsule collection of Vivienne Westwood couture looks crafted with the finest hand-woven Chanderi silks and Khadi cotton, wool and silks - the fabric reinvigorated by Mahatma Gandhi and known as a symbol of freedom in India.
The special capsule collection celebrates the craftmanship of these hand-woven fabrics, sourced from across India, provided by esteemed textile houses; Khadi India and Aaranya/Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh). The showcase highlights heritage preservation, and the skilled artisans keeping traditional craftsmanship alive.
Reflective of the landscape and the natural fibres of the Khadi, and rich Chanderi silks, the Vivienne Westwood capsule collection features summer white muslin cottons and raw silks, sand Muga silks and stone pashmina wool, sky blue cotton, vibrant purple raw silk and rich black cotton.
The collection combines Vivienne Westwood silhouettes with a nod to traditional Indian clothing. The simplicity of the fabrics, with a focus on their natural textures, are combined with complex tailoring, sculptured or draped evening wear. Using one special Khadi or Chanderi fabric per style, allowing each the attention it deserves, highlighting the craftmanship of the fabric.
