It comes as no surprise that ace couturier Gaurav Gupta always pushes the envelope of design and couture. Known for exploring surreal, larger-than-life and fantastical themes, Gupta’s collections are more timeless pieces of art than fleeting moments in fashion. The designer gets candid about shaping his vision with passion and patience and making it big on the international stage.
ELLE: What is the main inspiration behind your creations, given your distinct sculptural style?
Gaurav Gupta (GG): This distinctive aesthetic has evolved over the years through a combination of my personal experiences, creative influences, and a deep passion for pushing the boundaries of fashion. I am grateful for my experience at Central Saint Martins, where I learnt how to truly express myself through art. In over 18 years I have carved the world of Gaurav Gupta that is Indian at its core and boundless in its form. We’ve honed the use of traditional textiles, and ancient Indian embroideries like zardozi, aari, nakshi, and dabka to invent and reinvent our future primitive aesthetic.
ELLE: In three adjectives, describe the Gaurav Gupta clientele.
GG: Experimental, progressive, free.
ELLE:What’s inspiring you at the moment?
GG: I am excited about new cultures being born, and I think we are challenging the notions of what is formal, what is casual, or what is couture even – the lines are definitely blurring.
ELLE: Describe your experience dressing mega celebrities on the international stage. How is it infusing your work with new energy?
GG: The experience has been exhilarating and magical. I am aware of the power of great design and fashion through iconic moments like Megan Thee Stallion for the Oscars, Aishwarya Rai at Cannes, Cardi B at Grammy’s and other iconic culturalists we have dressed over the last year and a half. Also being able to showcase at Paris Haute Couture Week on the calendar. We wanted to make it a sustained activity and continue the magic from here on, and I feel this is where the true potential of the brand is shaping up.
ELLE: How has your relationship with Paris developed over the years?
GG: As a student at Central Saint Martins, I used to visit Paris Fashion Week (PFW) to attend shows. I have also worked with Hussein Chalayan backstage for his PFW show, and it was all so magical. Life eventually came full circle when my brand was chosen to be the guest member at Paris Couture Week.
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