Latest news with #Prada
The Print
3 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Print
Mumbai social scavengers are a special breed—did full paisa vasooli on Bastille Day in Taj
I oiled my hair and planned an evening of solo celebration, with a glass of chilled bubbly. Real bubbly. Champagne. Not local Chandon, which is the same thing, and yet not. It is called sparkling wine. The French are particular about trademarks, GST, and patents. Unlike Prada. I wasn't invited, but my daughter was. I instructed her to wear a silk saree, not a 'gown' à la Urvashi Rautela, who wears gowns everywhere, even to Wimbledon. Avantikka disobeyed and wore an electric blue caftan. Yesterday was the 14th of July. The French National Day. Bastille Day. Many of Mumbai's Francophiles were busy: the ladies preening at the salon, the men dusting the lapels of their sharply tailored suits — or, if you are Ranjit Hoskote, looking for a suitable cravat. At last year's Bastille Day celebrations in Mumbai, Sania Mirza was the guest of honour. Kalki Koechlin did the honours in 2025 and made a wonderful speech. Kalki is bona fide French. There were over 550 invitees, most of whom had been practising bonsoir and merci beaucoup for weeks. Some overwhelmed guests were seen bowing to the cerebral Consul General, Monsieur Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet, like he was French royalty. In India, bowing and scraping comes naturally to many. Especially in front of White people from embassies and consulates. You never know when you may need that visa at short notice – best to make nice. Vive La France This year, the French upped the game and took over the entire first floor of the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. Colourful sarees were draped over the grand staircase, while a pianist sang soulful chansons. Quel dommage the speeches were not in Marathi spoken with a strong French accent. Who wants to get beaten up next…Mon Dieu! In 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was invited to Paris by French President Emmanuel Macron to witness the impressive military parade on the Champs Élysées, as Indian troops marched smartly with their French counterparts. Much bonhomie was expressed by the two leaders. And no, this was not the occasion when Macron was seemingly slapped by his wife, Brigitte. That happened this year in May, when their aircraft landed in Hanoi. Relax! The president clarified they were just 'joking and horsing around.' Hota hai, yaar. Miya-biwi pyaar can take unexpected turns. Rest assured, l'amour between the two is intact, okay? Ignore those mean black eye memes. The lovely thing about India's relationship with France? It just got lovelier. Paris Couture Week 2025 witnessed a gorgeous showing of Rahul Mishra's haute couture, where the très jolie Lisa Haydon stole the show from glum-faced models who looked like they were suffering from a serious gastric ailment and needed an urgent pit stop at the nearest loo. It was our luminous Lisa who changed the vaatavaran on the runway and shone as brilliantly as the diamonds from Tanishq – a special collaboration between the brand and Rahul Mishra. The venue for Mumbai's Bastille Day celebrations has been the Taj Mahal Hotel for years. The format of the soirée remains monotonous and unchanged: standard speeches on bilateral ties, both national anthems, a toast, and then a quick wrap-up as canapés disappear and the bar shuts down. But in the latest edition – voilà! There was a lavish buffet serving French staples like coq au vin. We desis are used to lingering and loitering at such events, doing full vasooli of free food and drinks, minus embarrassment. The few Frenchies dotting the ballroom snootily speak to one another and leave the minute formalities are over. The regulars (those who assiduously cultivate the migratory birds, also known as consulate officials) hang around hoping to pile on to anybody offering a ride home — or dinner. Mumbai's social scavengers are a special breed. Also read: Marathi wins in Mumbai's monsoon madness—and Maharashtrian mulgi gives competition to Malaika Scuffles and sordid affairs Politically, things are pretty thanda in Mumbai, give or take a few scuffles. I often used to wish I could swap places with suburban autorickshaw drivers, especially the ones plying in Bandra. What a life! New adventures every day! Models and movie stars as passengers. Imagine ferrying a wounded Saif Ali Khan to hospital — instant fame! Hello Bhajan Singh Rana from Uttarakhand. But this week's victimised autorickshaw driver is from Virar, not glam-sham Bandra. I definitely don't want to swap places with Raju Patwa. But I would love to invite him for a vada pav treat soon. The guy had the guts to defiantly tell a Marathi-speaking pedestrian — whom he had accidentally brushed against — that he spoke Bhojpuri and Hindi, not Marathi. That was his big crime! Reportedly, he was later hunted down by Shiv Sena (UBT) workers led by Uday Jadhav, violently assaulted, and forced to apologise. Meanwhile, the Mahjong Madames of Mumbai's uber-elite circles are cluck-clucking over the big scandale du jour. A 40-year-old married teacher and mother of two kids allegedly seduced her 16-year-old male student. The underage boy's parents were forced to file an FIR against the besotted lady. The juicy details of this unusual affair are upsetting the Mahjong Madames, who need full concentration while playing with those 144 tiles. Talk of uncanny coincidences — take a quick look at the Macrons' marriage, dear Mahjong Madames. It may provide clarity. Brigitte was Emmanuel's teacher in school. She was 39, he was 16 and a classmate of her daughter's. His parents removed him from school. But the romance continued when he went to college. They eventually married in 2007, when Brigitte was 54 and he was 29. They've been happily married for 18 years. Give or take a few slaps and black eyes. There's still hope for the Mumbai teacher and her student. Vive La France! Shobhaa De is an author, columnist, social commentator, and opinion-shaper. She has written 20 books. She tweets @DeShobhaa. Views are personal. (Edited by Zoya Bhatti)
Vogue Singapore
12 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue Singapore
'I really wanted to challenge myself and bring people together through well-curated spaces': Kazuyo Sejima on her collaboration for Prada Mode
Prada Mode is a cultural social club founded in 2018 with the aim of bringing together art, culture and storytelling through the lens of travel. This year, it ventured into uncharted territory crossing continents as guests journeyed from Osaka to Naoshima and were ferried across to Inujima. There, they experienced firsthand how a remote island off the coast of Okayama Prefecture, home to just 21 inhabitants, has quietly evolved into a vital hub for contemporary art. This transformation is largely thanks to renowned Japanese architect Kazuyo Sejima, who has dedicated 17 years to the Inujima Art House Project. With Prada's support which includes the donation of a permanent pavilion at Inujima Life Garden, guests were invited to immerse themselves in a rare, deeply moving journey where a single boat ride shifts not just location, but perception. Much like the mythical Shangri-La, this voyage underscores the importance of physical experience—of being present in a space where culture, memory and imaginations are shared. Renowned Japanese architect, Kazuyo Sejima. Courtesy of Desmond Lim Throughout this unforgettable journey I had the privilege of speaking with Sejima and not only did I gain invaluable insight into the mind behind curating spaces, but I also came away with a deeper understanding of our responsibility, as global citizens, to uphold culture through the nurturing and cultivating of the arts. Here Sejima speaks to Vogue Singapore about the collaboration, her designs ethos and creative process. How did you feel when you first received the call from Prada for this collaboration? This collaboration happened two years ago in Tokyo when I was invited to be part of Prada Mode. I was serving as the director at Teien Art Museum and even though I might not be well-versed in fashion—being an architect—I really wanted to challenge myself and see how I can bring people together through well-curated spaces. And because Teien means Japanese garden, I decided to bring the conversations, the workshops and the performances outdoors— where it allows for guests to interact with the environment. For its twelfth edition this year, the exhibition showcases Sejima's cultural works in the historic island's lush, green landscape. Courtesy of Desmond Lim As part of Inujima's Art House project, Prada collaborates with Sejima, unveiling a permanent pavilion in the Inujima Life Garden. Courtesy of Desmond Lim Inujima's forested trails form the perfect backdrop for the culturally-rich project—offering a dialogue between the artworks and the island's natural environment. Courtesy of Desmond Lim Did you extend that concept to Osaka and Inujima? Yes, because while Osaka offers a more straightforward outdoor setting, Inujima—being a much smaller island—presents a completely different set of dynamics. There, the environment plays a pivotal role in shaping how we foster community through the exhibits. I hope for the two sites to be in dialogue with one another, each responding to its context yet contributing to a shared narrative. Ultimately, I want the experience to leave visitors with a sense of responsibility—not just to the art, but to their own communities. I think this is very important. Let's talk about design—from the iconic Aoyama store in Tokyo to the one in SoHo, New York and the now-legendary Prada Marfa installation in the Texas desert—Prada's retail spaces are often both a boutique and art gallery. Do you see a connection between that visual language and your own design philosophy? I was in awe when I first saw the store in Aoyama. But when it comes to my design s , I like to find a bit of fun in the way we do things. Take the rabbit chairs found at the Inujima Life Garden for instance, maybe not the most comfortable (chuckles), but they were created to achieve a certain look and feel—which aligns to the way I approach design and how it allows for interpretations. Prada Mode Osaka combines history, architecture and daily life, showcasing site-specific art installations in the island of Inujima. Courtesy of Desmond Lim Inside the garden pavilion, Sejima's open-air design merges indoor and outdoor seamlessly—framing the natural landscape while offering a communal space for creative exchange. Courtesy of Desmond Lim The rabbit chairs found at the Inujima Life Garden nods to the Sejima's playful, lighthearted approach to design Courtesy of Desmond Lim Scattered across the surface like water bubbles, the artwork appears to float along the surface—adding a sense of lightness to the installation. Courtesy of Desmond Lim Glass, for instance, is featured prominently in many of your works. Do you typically approach a space with a specific material in mind, or does the site itself dictate the material palette as the process unfolds? It's very much dependent on the environment. In Inujima, for instance, the roads are extremely narrow, so the logistics of transporting materials must be carefully considered. Anything beyond a certain size becomes nearly impossible to move, and because of that, we work closely with the environment, letting it guide many of our decisions. In fact, the sheds that house these large-scale installations often have their frontages completely removed, leaving only the bare structural frame. This not only opens up the space but allows the viewer to experience the artwork in tandem with its surroundings, inviting a deeper appreciation of the island's natural beauty. Harmony is key for me when designing from within a landscape. Miuccia Prada is known for pushing her creative boundaries—often choosing to work with materials, ideas or stereotypes that she actively resists. Have you ever similarly challenged yourself to go against your instincts or preferences in your own creative process? Oh really? I didn't know that! [laughs]. Well, honestly, I just love working with things I genuinely enjoy! But in all seriousness, I think it really depends on the space and the environment I'm working with. A striking installation within Inujima's Art House Project blurs the boundaries between architecture and nature, reflecting Kazuyo Sejima's vision of spaces that invite open interpretation and harmonious engagement with their surroundings. Courtesy of Desmond Lim A vibrant, large-scale floral sculpture enlivens the historical wooden space, enriching the site with a creative and immersive art experience. Courtesy of Desmond Lim Enriched by the historic architecture of Inujima, Prada Mode Osaka blends culture and art with the island's natural landscape. Courtesy of Desmond Lim Minimalist spaces often invite open-ended interpretation, while maximalist ones tend to present a more defined narrative. Do you agree with this? Of course, I appreciate minimal spaces. However minimalism doesn't automatically equate to freedom. A richly decorated space can be just as engaging. For me, when it comes to creating environments, I'm drawn to the idea of a park—an open, communal space that brings people together regardless of age, gender or social background. That's very much the spirit behind Prada Mode: to create a space that is inclusive, open-ended and ultimately left to one's own interpretation. And finally, what's your idea of a happy place? I think when people get older they get happier. And wherever that place may be, it will always be a happy place. For more information on Prada Mode Osaka, visit Prada.
Emirates Woman
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
From Ateliers to Artisans: How luxury brands reinterpret heritage craftsmanship
The intersection of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary luxury fashion has long been a source of creative inspiration for high-end designers. By reimagining heritage techniques through a modern lens, luxury houses not only introduce global audiences to centuries-old artisanal traditions but also ensure their continued relevance in an ever-evolving industry. From intricate Indian embroidery to bold African wax prints, these reinterpretations demonstrate how fashion serves as a bridge between cultures and eras. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dior Official (@dior) Dior's Ode to South Indian Textiles One of the most striking examples in recent years was Dior's 2023 Mumbai showcase, where Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri incorporated Madras checks—a lightweight, handwoven fabric originating from South India—into the brand's signature silhouettes. The collection juxtaposed structured French tailoring with the vibrant, irregular patterns of Madras, creating a dialogue between European haute couture and Indian textile heritage. Presented against the iconic Gateway of India, the show was a celebration of cross-cultural craftsmanship. While the designs were unmistakably Dior, the influence of traditional Indian weaving was undeniable, proving how heritage techniques can elevate modern luxury. Prada's Reinvention of Kohlapuri Craftsmanship View this post on Instagram A post shared by Prada (@prada) Similarly, Prada's Men's 2026 Spring Summer show in Milan collection featured sleek, minimalist slippers inspired by Kohlapuris—a style of hand-stitched leather mojris originating from Maharashtra. The Italian luxury house reworked the traditional design, replacing raw leather with polished finishes and streamlined shapes while retaining the essence of the original craft. The result was a sophisticated hybrid of regional Indian footwear and Prada's contemporary aesthetic. This approach not only introduced Kohlapuri craftsmanship to a global audience but also demonstrated how traditional forms can be adapted for modern luxury. The house, after public commentary, credited the silhouette to India's archival heritage. Louis Vuitton's Fusion of African Wax Prints and Tailoring Beyond Indian influences, Louis Vuitton's 2023 collaboration with designer Grace Wales Bonner showcased the versatility of West African wax prints in high fashion. The collection merged the bold, geometric patterns of African textiles with precise European tailoring, creating a striking contrast that resonated on international runways. By incorporating these prints into structured suits and accessories, the collaboration highlighted the dynamic potential of traditional fabrics in contemporary design. In this collection, she also wanted to pay homage to black icons who found creative freedom in Paris, such as the writer James Baldwin and dancer, singer and actor Josephine Baker. Giambattista Valli's Moroccan Reverie For his Spring 2025 haute couture collection, Giambattista Valli delivered a masterclass in escapism—one that wove together his signature romantic extravagance with subtle nods to his Moroccan heritage. Known for his unapologetically voluminous silhouettes and dreamlike aesthetic, Valli this time anchored his fantasy in personal history, offering a collection that felt both intimately rooted and expansively imaginative. But beyond its visual splendor, the collection carried whispers of North African influence—not in overt motifs, but in its celebration of texture, color, and grandeur. Chanel's Tribute to Scottish Tartan Chanel's Métiers d'Art 2013 collection, showcased in Edinburgh, paid homage to Scottish traditions through the use of tartan, tweed, and Celtic embroidery. Karl Lagerfeld's designs seamlessly integrated these regional elements into Chanel's timeless elegance, proving that heritage craftsmanship can transcend cultural boundaries. The collection not only honored Scottish textile history but also reinforced the brand's commitment to artisanal excellence. These examples illustrate how luxury brands serve as custodians of global craftsmanship, preserving traditional techniques while reinventing them for contemporary audiences. Whether through fabric, embroidery, or silhouette, the reinterpretation of heritage artistry ensures its survival in a rapidly changing industry. By acknowledging and elevating these traditions, fashion houses not only enrich their own creative vocabulary but also foster a deeper appreciation for the artisans behind the craft. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Supplied
Business of Fashion
21 hours ago
- Business
- Business of Fashion
Prada Eyes ‘Made in India' Collaboration After Sandal Scandal
Prada is looking to collaborate with 'artisanal footwear' makers in India in a partnership, it said on Friday, two weeks after the Italian luxury group triggered a controversy by debuting ethnic sandals resembling 12th-century Indian ones. After viral photos from a Milan fashion show drew criticism from Indian artisans who make the sandals - named after the historic city of Kolhapur in Maharashtra state - Prada was forced late last month to acknowledge that its new open-toe footwear was inspired by ancient Indian designs. The furore even saw sales of Indian sandals boom, with sellers and artisans seeing the controversy as a way to promote the heritage craft by tapping into nationalist pride. Prada said in a statement to Reuters that it held talks remotely on Friday with the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, which represents 3,000 Kolhapuri sandal artisans, and discussed potential opportunities for future collaboration. 'The next step will be for Prada's supply chain team to meet a range of artisanal footwear manufacturers,' the company said. The Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce said that Lorenzo Bertelli, son of Prada's owners and head of its corporate social responsibility, joined the talks on Friday. The chamber of commerce said that during the talks Prada said it aimed to launch a limited-edition 'Made in India' Kolhapuri-inspired collection of sandals in partnership with Indian artisans. India's luxury market is small but growing, with the rich splurging on designer fashion, top end sports cars and pricey watches. Prada does not have any retail stores in India, and its products are usually reserved for the super rich who shop overseas. The sandal scandal left the social media abuzz for days with criticism and sarcastic memes, with Indian politicians, artisans and the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce demanding due credit to Indian heritage. By Dhwani Pandya, Elisa Anzolin, Abinaya Vijayaraghavan; Editors: Aditya Kalra, Susan Fenton Learn more: After Prada 'Sandal Scandal,' Indian Sellers Tap Nationalist Pride to Boost Sales Sales are surging for the 'Kolhapuri' sandals that garnered global attention after Prada sparked a controversy by showing a similar design on the runway without crediting its origin.
The Star
a day ago
- Business
- The Star
Made in India next? Will Prada's 'sandal scandal' spark real change?
After viral runway photos drew criticism from Indian artisans, Prada admitted its new open-toe sandals were inspired by traditional Kolhapuri designs. Photo: Reuters Prada is looking to collaborate with "artisanal footwear" makers in India in a partnership, it said on Friday (July 11), two weeks after the Italian luxury group triggered a controversy by debuting ethnic sandals resembling 12th-century Indian ones. After viral photos from a Milan fashion show drew criticism from Indian artisans who make the sandals – named after the historic city of Kolhapur in Maharashtra state, Prada was forced late last month to acknowledge that its new open-toe footwear was inspired by ancient Indian designs. The furore even saw sales of Indian sandals boom, with sellers and artisans seeing the controversy as a way to promote the heritage craft by tapping into nationalist pride. Read more: What to know about the Prada 'sandal scandal' and India's Kolhapuri comeback Prada said in a statement that it held talks remotely on Friday (July 11) with the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, which represents 3,000 Kolhapuri sandal artisans, and discussed potential opportunities for future collaboration. "The next step will be for Prada's supply chain team to meet a range of artisanal footwear manufacturers," the company said. The Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce said that Lorenzo Bertelli, son of Prada's owners and head of its corporate social responsibility, joined the talks on Friday (July 11). The chamber of commerce said that during the talks Prada said it aimed to launch a limited-edition "Made in India" Kolhapuri-inspired collection of sandals in partnership with Indian artisans. Read more: Menswear puts its best foot forward, as toe-baring styles step onto the runway India's luxury market is small but growing, with the rich splurging on designer fashion, top end sports cars and pricey watches. Prada does not have any retail stores in India, and its products are usually reserved for the super rich who shop overseas. The sandal scandal left the social media abuzz for days with criticism and sarcastic memes, with Indian politicians, artisans and the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce demanding due credit to Indian heritage. – Reuters
