07th 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 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 166-feet-long 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 silk – the artisanal 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.
‘I loved getting to know the Khadi and Chanderi fabrics – there is a lightness, a crispiness, an opulence, and a feeling that there is something behind them- it is the culture of India. Materials can have a soul, and especially fabrics which are handwoven- you see the human touch. There are things that don’t change, they keep their meaning and stand the test of time.
India is such a vast country, so rich with history and culture and we are honoured to be showing here at the monumental Gateway of India.’
~Andreas Kronthaler, Creative Director, Vivienne Westwood
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.
‘We are honoured to have been invited by the Department of Textiles, Government of Maharashtra, to present a show here, at the historic Gateway of India, and to create a collection which celebrates India’s rich textile heritage and traditional hand-woven industries.
Following a trip to India a few years ago, through our partners at Vivz Fashion School, I was introduced to the tradition and importance of the Khadi fabrics, known as a symbol of freedom in India. I also had the honour and pleasure to meet Priyadarshini Scindia, the Queen of Gwalior, who also introduced me to the wonderful textile project working with Indian artisans who are creating fabrics using traditional techniques.
At Vivienne Westwood we have long championed craftsmanship and heritage and have partnered for decades with local industries and artisans in the UK, as well as in Europe and Africa, and are now proud to partner with the artisanal hand-crafted textile industry of India for this show.’
Carlo D’Amario CEO, Vivienne Westwood
The evening was attended by the members of Royal Family of Gwalior – Priyadarshini Raje Scindia and Yuvraj Mahanaaryaman Rao Scindia of Gwalior, HH Gwalior – Minister Doner and Communications, Maharaj Sangramsinh Gaekwad of Baroda, Rani Asha Raje Gaekwad, Prince Pratapsinh Rao Gaekwad of Baroda, Princess Praggyashree Raje Gaekwad, Princess Krishna Kumari of Panna, Princess Mrinalika Bhanjdeo of Mayurbhanj, Maharaj Kumar Yeshwantrao Holkar of Indore, Maharaj Kumari Nairika Raje Holkar, Maharaj Raghvendra Rathore and Rani Kavita Singh Rathore.
Also, the iconic occasion was graced by leading Bollywood personalities, designers, and industry influencers. Renowned names such as Radhika Merchant Ambani, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Janhvi Kapoor, Aditya Roy Kapur, Bhumi Pednekar, Mira Kapoor and Vijay Varma, among many others, added star power to the grand occasion. Fashion luminaries such as Manish Malhotra, Kunal Rawal, Rimple Narulah, and Falguni & Shane Peacock were also in attendance, alongside top stylists Anaita Shroff Adajania, Shaleena Nathani and Ami Patel. Indian fashion icons with global appeal such as Diipa Khosla, Aashna Shroff, Tania Shroff, and Banita Sandhu also joined in the celebration, blending international style with Indian heritage.
HSBC, as the presenting partner, provided an exclusive experiential zone that highlighted their commitment to supporting creative industries. Tira proudly partnered with the event, aligning the beauty with Westwood’s ethos of individuality and self-expression. Porsche Centre Mumbai, showcasing the all-electric Porsche Taycan, added a touch of performance and sustainable luxury to the night, while Vedica, supported with their premium water, along with Anax Holding, World Villas by Arihant & Fashion Entrepreneur Fund.
The grand runway show was followed by an exclusive after-party at Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai, partnering with Johnnie Walker Refreshing Mixer – Non Alcoholic.
Special thanks to the Department of Textiles, Govt. of Maharashtra, Vivz Fashion School Pvt. Ltd for making this show possible.