Make-up is dissident. It claims control over identity. It rewrites...
Rahul Mishra Spring Summer 2022 mood board bloomed with flowers from his fantasy wild garden
Read time 5 minutes
All clothing by Rahul Mishra.
Rahul Mishra is a designer who views couture as more than just a collection of garments; to him, it's an expression of art that draws from the beauty of nature. With his latest collection, he transforms the splendor of the Himalayas into intricate pieces that evoke a sense of fantasy and imagination.
For Rahul Mishra, couture is not merely about following trends or predicting the latest fashion fads; it’s about creating art that brings his wildest imaginations to life through the lens of nature. His approach to couture is unique, drawing inspiration from the natural world and infusing it with his creativity. “Originality is very important for me,” he says. “Nature is the most optimal influence in my process.”
In his latest collection, Mishra turns to the beauty of the Himalayas for inspiration. The breathtaking landscapes, with their ice-capped mountains and lush flora, provide a rich tapestry for his creative mind. He takes elements from the botanical wilderness and reinterprets them into stunning couture pieces. From real flowers to the tranquil serenity of the region, everything is transformed into wearable art.
All clothing by Rahul Mishra.
Rahul Mishra’s vision extends beyond the runway. He dreams of building a home and creative sanctuary in the rural northern parts of India, away from the bustling civilization. Although the physical structure is yet to be built, he has already brought his architectural wonders to life through his couture ensembles. His exaggerated designs reflect the freedom and vastness of the Himalayan wilderness.
Rahul’s latest collection, aptly titled “The Enchanted,” is a journey into a world of fantasy. The couture pieces evoke a sense of magic and otherworldliness, as if they were plucked from the pages of a fairy tale. His muse is Mother Earth, and his designs reflect the beauty and wonder of the natural world. The result is a collection that feels both ethereal and grounded in nature.
Creating this collection was a liberating experience for Mishra. He embraced the extensive biodiversity of the Himalayas and found innovative ways to translate it into fashion. “The Himalayan biodiversity is extensive,” he explains. “To poetically present it through fashion was equally challenging and amusing.” His approach to couture is to break free from limitations, allowing his imagination to soar.
All clothing by Rahul Mishra.
Mishra’s creativity shines in the way he transforms flowers into couture. He took rare blooms like poppies, peace lilies, foxgloves, bellflowers, hollyhocks, iris, and anemones and incorporated them into his designs. The result is a collection where each garment is not just adorned with flowers, but takes on the form and shape of these natural elements. This meticulous attention to detail elevates his work to a new level of craftsmanship.
While preparing to showcase his third fashion film for the Spring/Summer Haute Couture Week 2022 edition, Mishra faced significant challenges due to the ongoing pandemic. The third wave of COVID-19 hit his atelier, impacting both him and his team. Despite these obstacles, he remained determined to create something extraordinary. “The final product is for the world to enjoy, but to us, the procedure and the journey are also equally cathartic,” he says.
Mishra is known for his innovative use of textiles, shapes, and embellishments. His approach to creating couture is to meld various techniques into a harmonious whole. “When we start designing a collection, we aren’t married to a particular idea or technique; the approach we take is very fluid,” he explains. Each piece is a blend of hundreds of techniques, from sequins and thread to gathers, sheer panels, applique, and dori work.
“Originality is crucial in my designs; my inspiration doesn’t come from the internet but from the world around me. Nature, with all its beauty and complexity, is my muse.” — Rahul Mishra
Rahul Mishra’s designs are a celebration of exploration and experimentation. He doesn’t confine himself to strict rules or conventional ideas. Instead, he allows his creativity to guide him, resulting in a collection that feels like “beautiful chaos.” This approach to couture is refreshing in a world where fashion often follows strict trends and styles.
Mishra’s latest collection features a quote from the Persian poet Rumi that encapsulates his philosophy on couture: “Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and right doing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there.” This quote reflects Mishra’s belief in breaking free from conventional boundaries and embracing the unknown in his designs. It’s a philosophy that aligns perfectly with his approach to fashion.
Nature is more than just an inspiration for Rahul Mishra; it’s a muse that guides his creativity. The landscapes, flowers, and elements from the wilderness are not just aesthetic influences but serve as a foundation for his designs. By interspersing nature with imagination, Mishra creates couture that feels organic yet fantastical.
All clothing by Rahul Mishra.
For Mishra, the process of creating couture is as important as the final product. The journey involves overcoming challenges, pushing creative boundaries, and finding catharsis in the work. Despite the setbacks caused by the pandemic, he found fulfillment in bringing his vision to life. Each piece in his collection tells a story, reflecting the emotional and artistic journey he undertook.
Mishra’s couture embodies the joy of experimentation. By blending various techniques and textures, he creates pieces that are as visually stunning as they are unique. This playful approach allows him to explore different possibilities without being bound by traditional constraints. The result is a collection that feels fresh and innovative.
Rahul Mishra’s couture challenges conventional notions of high fashion. By drawing inspiration from nature and embracing artistic freedom, he offers a new perspective on what couture can be. His designs are a testament to the power of creativity and imagination, proving that fashion can be both wearable and artful.
All clothing by Rahul Mishra.
Mishra’s journey to create his latest collection was not without adversity. The COVID-19 pandemic affected both him and his team, adding complexity to the production process. However, he didn’t let these challenges deter him. His resilience and determination are reflected in the stunning pieces he created, showcasing his ability to thrive even in difficult times.
Rahul Mishra’s couture is a celebration of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The intricate techniques used to create each piece reflect his commitment to quality and artistry. By blending traditional methods with innovative designs, he elevates couture to a new level, proving that fashion can be a true form of artistic expression.
As Rahul Mishra continues to push the boundaries of couture, the fashion world eagerly anticipates what he will create next. His unique approach to fashion, rooted in nature and imagination, offers a refreshing take on the industry. By embracing the unknown and celebrating creativity, Mishra is paving the way for a new era of couture, where art and fashion seamlessly blend.
Text by
Adrian Hendrix
Fashion by
Rahul Mishra
Posted
May 5, 2022
Text by
Adrian Hendrix
Fashion by
Rahul Mishra
August 9, 2018
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In the dynamic world of music, fresh talents constantly emerge, captivating listeners with their unique voices and compelling stories. One such artist who has been making waves in recent years is Aime Simone
With a subtle pop sound and poignant lyrics, Aime Simone has captured the attention of music lovers worldwide, establishing himself as an emerging voice in the industry. Born with a passion for music, Aime Simone’s journey began at a young age. Growing up in a musically inclined family, he was exposed to a diverse range of genres and artists, which inspired his own musical aspirations. Drawing influences from soul, folk, and pop, Aime Simone developed a distinct sound that would later define his artistry.
Aime Simone made his mark with his debut single, “Say Yes, Say No.” in Berlin, releasing it independently in July 2020 – including the viral hit single “Shining Light” which would race to over 30M streams. Released to critical acclaim, the song showcased his powerful vocals and lyrical depth. It’s introspective nature and emotional resonance struck a chord with listeners, earning him recognition as a promising new talent. The track’s success paved the way for Aime Simone to further explore his creative potential and solidify his presence in the music scene.
As Aime Simone’s career progressed, his musical style evolved, showcasing his versatility as an artist. He began experimenting with different sounds and production techniques, fusing elements of electronic music with his soulful foundation. This fusion created a captivating blend that set him apart from his contemporaries, allowing him to carve out a unique niche within the industry. One of the defining aspects of Aime Simone’s music is his ability to convey raw emotions and thought-provoking themes through his lyrics. Whether addressing personal experiences, societal issues, or matters of the heart, his songs resonate with authenticity and vulnerability. Aime Simone’s introspective approach to songwriting has garnered praise for his ability to connect with listeners on a deep and meaningful level.
Aime Simone’s talent extends beyond the recording studio, as he delivers captivating performances that leave a lasting impact on audiences. His live shows are known for their energy, intimacy, and connection with fans. Aime Simone’s ability to create an immersive experience, combined with his magnetic stage presence, solidifies his reputation as a captivating performer. With his star on the rise, Aime Simone shows no signs of slowing down. As he continues to refine his sound and expand his musical horizons, fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead. Aime Simone’s dedication to his craft, coupled with his unwavering authenticity, positions him as an artist to watch in the years to come.
Aime Simone’s emergence as a compelling voice in the music industry is a testament to his talent, passion, and dedication. With his soulful sound, introspective lyrics, and magnetic stage presence, he has captivated audiences and garnered acclaim from music enthusiasts worldwide. As Aime Simone’s musical journey unfolds, we can expect him to leave an indelible mark on the industry, solidifying his status as an influential and beloved artist.
Kelly: What is something about yourself that most people would be surprised to learn?
Aime: People are usually surprised when they find out that I am French. I have lost a lot of my accent and I almost exclusively speak English at home, so if you don’t know me that might surprise you.
Or maybe I don’t drink alcohol, smoke, or take drugs. That would probably surprise a lot of people.
Kelly: Can you tell us about a project you are currently working on and
what do you hope to achieve with it?
Aime: Right now I am working on the live show. It’s a continual work in progress, but right now I am making adjustments based on what I learn from the festivals that I’m doing. Every show is an opportunity to improve. I want to have a show that feels amazing to perform and to experience. I want the energy to be effortless, powerful, and cathartic. I want the show to carry you, lift you, and release something in you. So I’m working on that.
Kelly: What would be your dream project or collaboration?
Aime: I would love to make an album in a special place, like a villa in a warm climate. I would like to have the experience of completely immersing in the creative work for a while, isolated from everything else. Gathering the right instruments, tools, and people to be around and bring the right energy. That would be a luxury.
Kelly: How do you navigate the intersection of your public persona and your private life, and what boundaries do you set?
Aime: I think I’m starting to reach the point where I do have to set some kind of boundary. Before I was making the effort to address everything on a personal level, respond to all the messages, etc. I knew at some point that would become difficult. I do feel guilty but it’s just not possible for it to stay the same. So I think I have become more picky about what I put my energy into. For example, some fans give me a lot, a lot of love and I know they truly connect to me and my music. For them, I will always be there. But more and more some people just want something from me, and they don’t make the effort to know me. They just see that I have some kind of spotlight on me sometimes so they try to get something from me. I have to cut myself off from that kind of energy, it is depressing and empty.
” I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.”
Courtesy of Aime Simone.
Kelly: If you could have any historical figure over for dinner, who would it be and what would you serve?
Aime: I would bring back Salvador Dalí and I would serve lobster.
Kelly: If you could only have one app on your phone, what would it be?
Aime: Probably WhatsApp. Or Instagram.
Kelly: How do you balance the pressure to be perfect with the need to take
risks and try new things?
Aime: That’s a real challenge. But I don’t think about it too much. I know that the answer is always in the action. You can’t try too hard to do anything. Just do the work, don’t be lazy. Do it well, take it as far as you can. And let go if it’s time. It’s something you learn over and over again. That’s just the work of an artist I think.
Kelly: What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing your industry today, and how do you think it can be addressed?
Aime: The lack of attention span. The sheer amount of content and high stimulation of everyday life today is not conducive to people connecting to music and artists. While the advantage of today might be the huge amount of exposure, what is lacking is the ability for people to take the time to understand the depth of an artist. I think people are more likely to feel superficially stimulated by a song and enjoy it for a very short amount of time before skipping to the next thing, rather than discovering an artist and diving into their universe. I think it is still something that humans need. So there is this lack of connection, deep connection to art. I think reaching the hearts of people is more difficult today. Everyone is too busy, overstimulated, or apathetic. I think it’s a greater question of where we are headed as a culture. We are still physical beings. We have to make our relationship with technology symbiotic, not destructive. I think there is still a balance to find that will be more healthy.
Kelly: How do you maintain authenticity and stay true to yourself in an industry that can often be superficial and image-driven?
Aime: Always bring it back to the music. That is the center of it all. The songs. The melodies, the lyrics. As long as those are true then I am not worried about losing myself, that keeps me grounded in authenticity.
Kelly: Can you describe a moment when you had to take a leap of faith and
pursue a new path or direction in your career?
Aime: I’ve had to quit working with some people. That is always scary because when you work with someone for a long time you are used to that and you feel comfortable in the familiarity. But sometimes you have to change things. So for me, those kinds of moments feel like a leap of faith, and I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.
Kelly: How do you stay motivated and inspired to continue to create and innovate in your work, despite challenges and obstacles?
Aime: It’s all there is to do in this life for me. I don’t think I could ever give up, what would I do?
The challenges and the obstacles are part of the experience. They make me strong. I think I chose this path because I wanted to grow. Sometimes I feel like giving up. But I think that feeling is towards very specific things- giving up on certain aspects of the industry, for example. I could imagine someday choosing a more underground path. I come from that, so it would feel less challenging I think. The industry is very uncomfortable, but at the same time, I like the competition with myself in this very harsh context.
Kelly: If you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice at the beginning of your career, what would it be?
Aime: It’s strange because anything I can think of that I would do differently today is exactly what led me to be here now. So it’s hard to answer.
Catch Aime Simone on tour
May 12th – The Great Escape – Brighton (UK)
June 4th – We Love Green – Paris (FR)
November 6th – La Cigale – Paris (FR)
November 27th – Circolo Magnolia – Milano (IT)
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