Breaking barriers: Manish Malhotra makes history as the first Indian designer to showcase at Harrods

In a first for an Indian designer, Manish Malhotra has been invited to showcase his World Collection by Harrods London, the renowned British luxury store, in its exclusive Private Shopping Penthouse, a members-only shopping club. The collection will be on display from September 16 to 29 and is part of the iconic department store's 175-year anniversary celebrations.

The World Collection blends the intricate art of traditional saree drapes with a contemporary flair in its gowns, saree gowns, and brocade jackets. The elements of zardozi, chikankari, and gota patti embroidery on rich, exquisite silks, velvets, and breezy chiffons are a fitting tribute to the legacy of Indian heritage, craftsmanship and technique. An ode is also paid to the Harrods green through an outfit designed by the couturier for the collection, as iconic as the colour itself.  

Having collaborated with legends such as Michael Jackson and Hillary Clinton in the past, Malhotra has now added another jewel to his crown by making history with this landmark moment in Indian fashion. 

From costume styling to filmmaking, jewellery design to fashion weeks—Malhotra has been a master of all things fashion in his career spanning over 30 years. Having styled Bollywood stars for the vast majority of it, both on and off-screen, his sense of style has always been distinct. From making sarees chic to singlehandedly bringing chiffon back, there are quite a few iconic fashion moments that come to mind when we think of his work.

This showcase at Harrods, however, represents much more than a personal triumph for Malhotra. It signals a shift in the global fashion landscape, with Indian fashion having a moment, heralding the cusp of a new era. While fashion houses all over the world have looked to Indian culture for inspiration, this marks the first time an Indian designer has taken centre stage at one of the world's most prestigious luxury fashion destinations, showcasing a collection that's as inwardly rooted in Indian fashion as it is outwardly international.

All image credits: Instagram/ @manishmalhotra05

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