LOVE FOR GODESSES & DIVAS
“We don’t simply fall in love, we become it”
Indian fashion designer Rahul Mishra showcased his latest collection, “Becoming Love,” at the prestigious Paris Couture Week, held at the historic Collège des Bernardins in Paris. Drawing inspiration from Sufism and its articulation of the seven stages of love, Mishra’s designs invite the audience on an emotive journey through attraction, infatuation, surrender, reverence, devotion, obsession, and ultimately, death.
Sufism’s influence is deeply ingrained in the collection’s narrative, as each stage of love is represented through intricate details and captivating silhouettes. Mishra’s designs fuse traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics, highlighting his commitment to the preservation and evolution of Indian textiles and artistry.
As models gracefully walked the runway, they brought to life the essence of each stage, gradually transitioning from the vibrant, alluring hues of attraction to the dark, melancholic tones of love’s final breath. This powerful visual representation further emphasized the profound connection between love and fashion, and how they both transform, inspire, and move us.
“Becoming Love’ delves into seven stages of love, ranging from attraction to death, and draws from various sources like Sufism and classical art, including the works of Gustav Klimt. These stages aren’t just human; they transcend all living beings. Each stage represents an emotion, an essence that’s tangible yet abstract. It’s been one of the most challenging collections I’ve worked on, almost like crafting seven different collections within one,” Rahul Mishra
The “Becoming Love” collection’s unique blend of Indian heritage, couture craftsmanship, and philosophical depth continues to strengthen Rahul Mishra’s reputation as a leading figure in the global fashion industry. His innovative vision and deep understanding of the human experience offer a refreshing perspective that resonates with both fashion critics and enthusiasts worldwide.
Rahul Mishra’s “Becoming Love” collection showcased at Paris Couture Week expertly weaves together inspiration from various sources, prominently featuring the influence of Austrian symbolist artist Gustav Klimt. Klimt’s distinct style can be seen throughout the collection, with the use of golden threads, curved nets, and halo-like constructions, paying homage to his famous works such as “The Kiss.”
Mishra’s designs also showcase a masterful command of form and structure, incorporating transparent silhouettes, delicate embroidery, and carefully balanced proportions. This impeccable attention to detail serves as a testament to Mishra’s exceptional skill and talent as a designer, allowing his creations to beautifully capture the essence of Klimt’s artistry while maintaining their own unique identity.
The integration of Klimt’s artistic vision within the “Becoming Love” collection not only highlights Mishra’s ability to draw inspiration from diverse sources but also demonstrates his commitment to creating couture that challenges traditional boundaries and captivates audiences with its innovative approach to design.
“Some pieces feature sculptural elements to mimic the shape of a heart, while others explore floral motifs as symbols of love’s ephemeral nature. I also referenced Klimt’s works, using the weight of gold and black to represent obsession and passion, and the more delicate, ethereal elements for love and reverence,” Mishra added.
In creating the “Becoming Love” collection, Rahul Mishra embarked on a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration. Through his designs, he unraveled the transformative nature of love and its impact on the human experience. Each stage of love, as articulated in Sufism, became a source of inspiration and an invitation to delve deeper into the complexities of human emotion.
By intertwining these stages with elements inspired by Gustav Klimt’s artistry, Mishra crafted a collection that speaks to the soul, revealing the profound connection between art and emotion. His journey through love’s various stages ultimately led him to a deeper understanding of its power and beauty, which he skillfully translated into his designs.
In essence, Rahul Mishra’s “Becoming Love” collection is a testament to his ability to combine philosophical depth, artistic inspiration, and innovative design, offering a transformative and unforgettable experience for all who witness it.
American rapper Cardi B made a stunning entrance at the event, donning a fresh off-runway look from Rahul Mishra’s Fall 2025 Couture collection. The dress, named ‘Wild Rose,’ was a hand-embroidered bustier long dress in a striking ruby red color. Interestingly, the dress was paired with “Crimson Mirage – Rose tourmalines,” which flare beautifully, adding a unique and eye-catching touch to the ensemble.
Rose tourmalines, also known as rubellite, are a type of gemstone that offer a range of benefits and healing properties. They act as a shield against negative influences, stimulate the heart chakra, and raise vibrational frequency. Additionally, they promote restorative sleep, introspection, and self-understanding. The gemstones occur in a wide range of vibrant colors, with pink tourmaline being known for its soft, warm hues.
