Isha Ambani, daughter of Indian business tycoons Mukesh and Nita Ambani, made a stunning appearance at the Met Gala 2024. For the event’s theme, ‘The Garden of Time,’ Isha collaborated with Indian designer Rahul Mishra to create a bespoke hand-embroidered couture sari gown.
The Saree Gown
The saree gown, a unique fusion of traditional Indian aesthetics and contemporary design, was a labour of love that spanned over 10,000 hours.
Rahul Mishra meticulously crafted the intricate hand embroidery across his ateliers in various Indian villages for the golden-hued saree. Delicate motifs of flowers, leaves, butterflies, and dragonflies adorn the saree, with each one carefully integrated from the archives into the design.
Sustainability And Craftsmanship
The saree gown is not just a fashion statement, but a powerful symbol of sustainability. It incorporates elements from Rahul Mishra’s past collections, showcasing the brand’s commitment to reducing waste and promoting a circular fashion economy.
The applique and embroidery techniques used, such as Fareesha, Zardozi, Nakshi, and Dabka, as well as French knots, carry a profound narrative about the state of the planet. They offer a message of hope and rebirth, inspiring us all to make positive changes.
Accessorizing The Look
Isha complemented her gown with a clutch that Swadesh had crafted as a masterpiece, using the ancient Indian art forms of Nakashi and miniature painting.
The exquisite Jade clutch bag features an Indian miniature painting created by skilled Jaipur artisan Hari Narain Marotia.
The jewellery, designed by Viren Bhagat, was equally stunning, featuring traditional lotus hand bracelets (Haathpochas), parrot earrings, and flower chokers.
Isha Ambani’s Statement
In her statement, Isha Ambani expressed profound joy and immense pride in representing the rich heritage of Indian craftsmanship on a global platform like the Met Gala. Her words resonated with a sense of national pride, reminding us of the beauty and depth of our culture. She also underscored the importance of sustainable fashion and the need to support local artisans, inspiring us to make conscious fashion choices.
