This full length made-to-order gown is hand-embroidered with natural elements: lotus pond, flowers, leaves, birds, and clouds. The transition from aquatic life from the skirt’s bottom to skyscape on the shoulder reflects the harmonious ecology between human and nature that this ‘Butterfly People’ couture collection seeks to inspire. Designer Rahul Mishra likewise created an ecology of kaarigars (artisans such as embroiderers) in his fashion business by creating even more elaborate designs during the pandemic such that he could provide a source of livelihood for the more than 100 craftspeople despite severe unemployment in India. He decentralised the process of production by encouraging kaarigars to reverse migrate from cities to their villages – working to the advantage of the lockdown. With his background in design thinking, he incorporates traditional heritage into couture as a solution to sustainable craft and socially-inclusive business amidst the pandemic crisis.
