Rahul Mishra weaves magic into Tod's heritage

When Tod’s Factory, the renowned Italian brand’s creative laboratory, opens its doors to a new collaborator, it is an exciting moment in fashion. This time, the spotlight shines on Rahul Mishra, India’s celebrated couturier known for his intricate embroideries and sustainable approach to luxury. The result? Rahul Mishra x Tod’s—a capsule collection that is nothing short of enchanting.

This is not the first time Tod’s has invited a designer to reimagine its iconic pieces. Tod’s Factory has previously collaborated with talents like Alber Elbaz and Alessandro Dell’Acqua, resulting in collections that pushed boundaries and celebrated creativity. However, Mishra’s collaboration brings a unique flavour, intertwining the rich techniques of Indian craftsmanship with the timeless elegance of Italian leather.

The collection is a symphony of textures, colours, and motifs. Tod’s offerings are transformed into canvases for Mishra’s artistry—their Gommino loafers and mules are reimagined with floral embroideries, meticulously hand-stitched by skilled kaarigars, across metallic Nappa leather and soft velvet. Mishra’s signature Tree of Life motif, a symbol of growth and interconnectedness, adds a touch of majestic elegance to these classic must-haves. The surfaces of Di Bag and T Timeless shoulder bag are adorned with intricate gold zari embroideries embellished with crystals, beads, and sequins. These accessories become wearable works of art, embodying the spirit of couture. “We developed a limited edition of Tod’s iconics, drawing inspiration from nature, my constant muse, crafting classic in-house motifs and the distinctive foliage, synonymous with my designs,” says Mishra.

Mishra’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in sustainability and ethical practices. His commitment to empowering local artisans and preserving traditional handicrafts resonates with Tod’s own dedication to craftsmanship and quality. This shared ethos is evident in every piece of the collection, where each stitch tells a story of heritage and innovation. As Mishra eloquently puts it, “Having had the opportunity to work on this project has been a great honour for me. To me, this partnership expresses artisanal mastery, Italian elegance as well as our intricate Indian craftsmanship.” It is a testament to the power of cross-cultural dialogue, where the east and west converge to create something truly exceptional. 

The Rahul Mishra x Tod’s collection will launch internationally today during London Fashion Week at Tod’s Bond Street Boutique—a fitting stage for this global celebration of artistry. Fashion enthusiasts from around the world will witness the unveiling of a collection that transcends borders and celebrates the beauty of creativity. More than just a collaboration, the capsule collection speaks of the enduring power of human hands and the boundless possibilities that arise when age-old cultures intertwine. It is a reminder that fashion, at its best, is a bridge between worlds—a celebration of shared humanity, churning up a timeless allure.

All images: Tod's

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