HSBC Presents Vivienne Westwood’s India Debut: A Spectacular Fusion of Heritage & High Fashion
by EVENTFAQS Bureau Industry Watch | April 2, 2025 | News
HSBC Vivienne Westwood Vivz Fashion School Ministry of Textiles, Government of Maharashtra Gateway of India
HSBC presented Vivienne Westwood’s historic India debut at the Gateway of India in Mumbai, on April 1, in partnership with Vivz Fashion School and the Ministry of Textiles, Government of Maharashtra. The evening was a grand celebration of India's rich textile heritage, with the historic monument illuminated in vivid colors as a stunning backdrop.
The fashion show featured a 166-feet-long runway set against the Gateway, showcasing Vivienne Westwood's Spring/Summer 2025 collection along with special archive pieces. A highlight of the event was a capsule collection crafted from the finest hand-woven Chanderi silks and Khadi cotton, wool, and silk—traditional fabrics known for their artisanal craftsmanship and deep cultural significance. Sourced from renowned textile houses such as Khadi India and Aaranya/Gwalior, these fabrics were incorporated into Westwood’s designs, blending contemporary silhouettes with Indian heritage.
Reflecting the natural essence of these fabrics, the collection featured summer white muslin cottons, raw silks, sand Muga silks, stone pashmina wool, sky blue cotton, vibrant purple raw silk, and rich black cotton. Each look was designed using a single type of Khadi or Chanderi fabric, ensuring that the material's intricate craftsmanship remained the focal point. The pieces elegantly combined Westwood’s signature tailoring with elements of traditional Indian attire, highlighting the beauty of natural textures and draped evening wear.
The event was attended by members of India’s royal families, including Priyadarshini Raje Scindia and Yuvraj Mahanaaryaman Rao Scindia of Gwalior, along with dignitaries such as Maharaj Sangramsinh Gaekwad of Baroda and Princess Krishna Kumari of Panna. Bollywood celebrities added glamour to the occasion, with Kareena Kapoor Khan, Janhvi Kapoor, Aditya Roy Kapur, Bhumi Pednekar, and Mira Kapoor among the prominent attendees. The event also attracted renowned designers like Manish Malhotra, Kunal Rawal, Rimple Narulah, and Falguni & Shane Peacock, as well as leading fashion stylists and influencers.
As the presenting partner, HSBC curated an exclusive experiential zone, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the creative industries. Tira, aligning with Westwood’s ethos of individuality and self-expression, partnered with the event, while Porsche Centre Mumbai showcased the all-electric Taycan, adding a touch of sustainable luxury. Other notable partners included Vedica, Anax Holding, World Villas by Arihant, and the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund.
Andreas Kronthaler, Creative Director, Vivienne Westwood said, “I loved getting to know the Khadi and Chanderi fabrics – there is a lightness, a crispiness, an opulence, and a feeling that there is something behind them- it is the culture of India. Materials can have a soul, and especially fabrics which are handwoven- you see the human touch. There are things that don’t change, they keep their meaning and stand the test of time. India is such a vast country, so rich with history and culture and we are honoured to be showing here at the monumental Gateway of India.”
Carlo D’Amario, CEO, Vivienne Westwood said, “We are honoured to have been invited by the Department of Textiles, Government of Maharashtra, to present a show here, at the historic Gateway of India, and to create a collection which celebrates India’s rich textile heritage and traditional hand-woven industries. Following a trip to India a few years ago, through our partners at Vivz Fashion School, I was introduced to the tradition and importance of the Khadi fabrics, known as a symbol of freedom in India. I also had the honour and pleasure to meet Priyadarshini Scindia, the Queen of Gwalior, who also introduced me to the wonderful textile project working with Indian artisans who are creating fabrics using traditional techniques. At Vivienne Westwood we have long championed craftsmanship and heritage and have partnered for decades with local industries and artisans in the UK, as well as in Europe and Africa, and are now proud to partner with the artisanal hand-crafted textile industry of India for this show.”
The evening concluded with an exclusive after-party at the Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai, in collaboration with Johnnie Walker Refreshing Mixer - Non-Alcoholic. The event celebrated the intersection of global fashion with India's textile legacy, marking a significant moment in the country’s fashion landscape.
The event celebrated the intersection of global fashion with India's textile legacy, marking a significant moment in the country’s fashion landscape.