Aarohanam is an enchanting narrative woven with rich indigenous techniques.
Couturier Gaurav Gupta's Aarohanam collection won hearts at Paris Haute Couture Week 2024.
Gaurav Gupta welcomed Paris Haute Couture Week to his enchanting world of Aarohanam through a magical presentation celebrating his love for ancient Indian philosophies.
“I am deeply inspired by ancient Indian philosophies. Within the spirit and spirituality is creation. I feel very humbled by the love 'Aarohanam' is receiving. It has been exciting to explore new horizons, with creative collaborations within the GG team and globally,” says Gaurav Gupta.
Displayed against the celestial backdrop of a cathedral, the venue was the perfect canvas to highlight the distinctive silhouettes and ethereal color palette that Gaurav chose for the collection. When asked why they chose the cathedral to display Aarohanam and how it adds to the collection. Gaurav says, “The cathedral conveys a sense of mystery, as does our collection. So for Aarohanam, it was the perfect backdrop. The models glided gracefully into this sacred space, reflecting the journey from darkness to light. “It perfectly combined ancient mysticism, surrealism and haute couture with the backdrop.”
Aarohanam, a Sanskrit word meaning ascension, has deep spiritual meaning and marks the journey of a being. Gaurav takes inspiration from this phenomenon and shares a charming narrative through different silhouettes.
“Our latest collection is inspired by Sanskrit philosophy. It is about the journey from the everyday to something deeper. The colors of the image change from deep black to vibrant Agni orange, echoing inner awakenings. Think classic silhouettes with a twist and intricate metalwork that alludes to ancient Indian texts like the Vedas,” adds Gaurav.
Aarohanam featured rich indigenous techniques such as badla, mukaish and zardozi, illuminated by multi-dimensional crystals, bugle beads and sequins.
The color palette was curated in shades of black, Agni orange, reflective sand and ether blue that paired beautifully with silhouettes featuring a cropped jacket, exaggerated cape, flowy trench coat and sculpted metal frame.
Here are five timeless Aarohanam silhouettes that won hearts around the world:
Beyoncé chose this one!
The Galaxy Crystal jacket with embroidered bodysuit and thigh-high boots became one of the most beloved creations in the collection. So much so that, the next time the silhouette was seen in public, it was adorned by legendary American singer-songwriter Beyoncé Knowles Carter. The embellished jacket and jumpsuit paired with matching boots are what couture dreams are made of.
The rise of the flame
A sculpted silhouette is synonymous with Gaurav Gupta couture. The vibrant orange hue or as Gaurav calls it, 'Agni Orange', definitely set the track on fire. The sculpted billowy orange dress echoes the flickering dance of a flame and is a perfect red carpet look on a global stage.
Of light and reflection
Hooded couture has been a red carpet favorite this past year and Gaurav never fails to impress when it comes to hoodies. This wavy tendril-shaped satin sand jacket exudes royalty with a touch of mystery. We hope to see this beauty on the red carpet in 2024.
Dancing birds and snakes
Sculptured metal structures were introduced in this collection and we can't get enough of how beautifully they were crafted. The black draped pharaoh skirt with a cast metal bodice features dancing birds and snake motifs making it a masterpiece.
sparkling surrealism
Gaurav shows off his creative magic in this stunning silver sand beaded dress with reptile crystal embroidery. The highlight of this artistic piece is the silver sand embroidered balaclava that blends beautifully with the silhouette.
