On his current pilgrimage to India, Bibhu Mohapatra turned acquainted with the Brahmavadinī, feminine sages whose hymns nonetheless dwell within the Vedas. “They’re equally empowered, balanced feminine sages that existed in a time when it was male dominated,” the designer stated backstage at his fall 2026 present.
In seasons previous, Mohapatra has designed with sure muses in thoughts. This season, he tried to maneuver away from such direct references. “It was vital for me to push this assortment in a route the place it’s not actually pushed by a particular stunning object,” he stated. “It’s actually concerning the equality and energy imbalance. And it was difficult and it pushed me.”
Mohapatra conveyed his emphasis on ladies’s energy by way of his tailoring—a notable departure from his emphasis on material and ultra-feminine silhouettes. (Concern not: his design signatures are nonetheless prominently featured within the assortment.) “I believe the facility rests within the shoulders,” he stated, gesturing to sharp skirt fits in gold jacquard and vegan leather-based alike. Elsewhere, a white V-neck costume with a jutting shoulder, nipped-in waist, and tulip skirt struck a pleasant stability. Silhouette apart, Mohapatra referenced the Brahmavadinī by way of his palette. “The colour story comes from the monasteries and the temples,” he stated: saffron, claret, and ivory.
Occasionwear is Mohaptra’s bread and butter. Whereas there have been nonetheless loads of beaded, feathered, sequined robes, he was desirous about how you can make his eveningwear extra versatile. “I wished to current garments that may be put collectively, but in addition she will combine it up with denim,” he stated, motioning to among the embellished, structured tops. They have been worn on the runway with slim skirts with petal waists, which in flip could possibly be dressed down with a T-shirt.
Mohapatra listens keenly to suggestions from patrons and potential consumers, typically waking up at 4AM to learn Shopify suggestions. This season, he did a powerful job of listening to his clients whereas additionally gently nudging them in the direction of new concepts.
