Known for his inimitable sculptural style, Gaurav Gupta’s collections are a refreshing departure from the stereotypical traditional ensembles associated with Indian couture. His approach towards fashion is intertwined with art, architecture and storytelling, which intrigues the modern Indian women who are constantly looking to experiment with their fashion choices. Although Gaurav’s couture is identifiable from a mile because of the extravagant structure, it’s the upscaled engineered construction and the play of embroidery that takes it to a whole new level every single time.
Venus Rising by Gaurav Gupta
For his latest pre-couture presentation, Venus Rising, inspired by the cosmic ocean, Gaurav has imbibed nuanced details from the celestial river and has artistically transcribed that through the attires. This year, the designer has divided his couture drops into multiple segments throughout the months, offering the brides-to-be a larger pool of options to chose from. In a detailed conversation with ELLE, the couturier talks about his fascination with nature, mythology and how he manages to constantly reinvent himself.
ELLE: What was the idea behind designing a pre-couture collection ahead of your main couture line?
Gaurav Gupta (GG): We started developing the couture collection six months ago, inspired by different stories. We ended up dividing the collection into different drops since each one of them has a specific narrative. The pre-couture collection is being launched across our five flagship stores, keeping in mind our clients who are looking to book couture in advance to prepare for their nuptials during October/November.
Venus Rising by Gaurav Gupta
ELLE: The collection is inspired by nature and mythology. Tell us a little about that?
GG: For pre-couture 2021, we delve into mythology, inspired by the birth of Venus and the cosmic ocean. This collection entails fluid structures that etch out the intricate femininity of the female form. The story of Venus’s birth is so surreal that we wanted each garment to reflect the magic. To create magnificent outfits that were ethereal and beautiful yet powerful was the only way.
Venus Rising by Gaurav Gupta
ELLE: The embroidery in this line has been instrumental in narrating the inspiration. How did you inculcate it in ornamentation?
GG: I am obsessed with fine embroidery. That’s why this year, we’ve made our couture collections more ornate and extravagant. An oyster of endless pearls is encrusted in sublime couture, illuminating the collection. We have experimented with layering multiple embroideries over different cascades to give a contemporary baroque-esque touch.
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ELLE: While you have a signature style, how do you manage to experiment with the silhouettes while retaining their trademark element?
GG: For me, each garment is like a piece of art. They have their own identity and story. I tend to make sure that the customer experiences something completely new and different every time they try on Gaurav Gupta. This year our collection is more extravagant and ornate. While our signature designs and brand ethos have been kept intact, we have experimented with making the skirts larger than life, with dramatic trails and voluminously engineered ruffles. Newer and fluid shapes showcase distinct constructions, which have been enhanced with different sculpting techniques.
Venus Rising by Gaurav Gupta
ELLE: The pandemic has shifted everyone’s approach towards investing in luxury. Did that influence a shift in your label’s strategy and design ideology?
GG: I’ve noticed that people are ready to step out of the mould and celebrate. The heart of our couture is statement and experimental. Brides and their families want to wear new concepts, artistic and sculptural couture. In fact, many of our clients host special functions just to wear a statement gown or lehenga.
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