The ‘India in Fashion: The Impact of Indian Dress and Textiles on the Fashionable Imagination’ exhibition is a celebration of the country's rich cultural heritage and its contribution to the global fashion industry since the 18th century. It features a range of Indian fashion, from traditional to contemporary, showcasing the country's diverse textile heritage, embroidery techniques, and artisanal crafts. The exhibition displays an array of garments, jewellery, and accessories that highlights the intricate workmanship and craftsmanship of Indian artisans and designers. The exhibition is curated by Hamish Bowles, designed by Patrick Kinmonth and architect Rooshad Shroff. Its grandeur reflects both the impressive display of contemporary Indian creativity and the intricate and nuanced colonial relationships that have developed over centuries. All-in-all the exhibition is an ode to the artisans and craftsmanship of India and how it has always transcended boundaries to reach people and designers around the world.
Segmented into different spaces, the exhibition has 10 sections: Introduction, An India of the imagination, gathered in a Mughal garden, The long shadow of Muslin, India’s allure meets the Paris couture, Valentino, The journey of the Sari, The great exhibition London 1851, The hippie trail, Traditions and innovations.
This exhibition differs from traditional museum displays as it does not follow a chronological timeline. Instead, it aims to explore India's significant impact on global fashion through key moments, including embroidery, textiles, silhouettes, and the use of vibrant colours.
INTRODUCTION
Starting off with the exhibition opener, the iconic outfit from S/S 2010 collection of the late Alexander McQueen and worn by Lady Gaga in Bad Romance. Witnessing this outfit is a fashion/pop culture fanatic’s dream come true. The embellishment is reminiscent of the iridescent beetle wings used for centuries in Mughal embroidery.
Next in line is an attire that belonged to George Harris Derusett, an Englishman who was known as the ‘Barber of Lucknow’ and served at the Lucknow Court in the 1830s. The outfit features fabrics, trims, and embellishments that are inspired by Indian heritage. The subsequent looks on display showcase outfits that were photographed against the backdrop of Indian heritage sites, with designs that draw inspiration from India. The exhibition includes photographs and garments created by Federico Forquet, Christian Dior, and Tarun Tahiliani. An additional iconic garment, designed by Naeem Khan and worn by the former First Lady Michelle Obama, is also on display.
