Manish Malhotra Turns The Runway Into A Couture Celebration At ICW 2025

Unknown Apr 02, 2026 1,150 Views

In a dazzling departure from tradition, celebrated designer Manish Malhotra redefined the fashion showcase format at India Couture Week 2025 by hosting a couture party instead of a conventional runway show. Held at the Taj Palace in New Delhi, the event blended high fashion with immersive celebra...

A Party That Reimagined Couture

The evening unfolded as an exclusive, invite-only gala featuring curated cocktails, gourmet cuisine, and a showcase of Malhotra’s most iconic creations. The venue was transformed into a glamorous setting with white curtains concealing the runway, which dropped dramatically mid-event to reveal the models.

Key highlights from the couture party:

The event opened with archival pieces worn by Bollywood stars, including Priyanka Chopra’s Desi Girl saree, Kajol’s green lehenga from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, and Kareena Kapoor Khan’s coral ensemble from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s Banarasi saree from Cannes 2025 and Malhotra’s Met Gala outfit were also on display
Jewellery pieces from Malhotra’s line were showcased, including 18K gold earrings worn by Rekha and a choker styled on Rihanna

The showcase was accompanied by live music from singer Jonita Gandhi, who performed as models walked the runway in intricately embellished saris, structured gowns, and regal menswear.

Star Power And Showstopper Moments

The guest list featured Bollywood celebrities such as Tamannaah Bhatia, Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, and Fatima Sana Shaikh. However, the spotlight belonged to Brazilian supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio, who stunned as the official showstopper.

Ambrosio’s two looks included:

A pearl-draped cocktail lehenga with a silver bustier-style blouse and peplum silhouette
A saree-inspired silver ensemble with a plunging neckline and mermaid-style skirt, paired with diamond jewellery and a dramatic dupatta

Her presence added international flair to the event, reinforcing Malhotra’s global appeal and the fusion of Indian couture with contemporary aesthetics.

Design Language And Artistic Direction

Malhotra’s collection emphasized craftsmanship, nostalgia, and innovation. Male models wore velvet sherwanis, bandhgalas, and structured jackets in rich tones like burgundy and muted peach, adorned with zari and metallic detailing. The women’s ensembles featured sequins, beads, and crystal embellishments, reflecting the designer’s signature opulence.

The event’s format allowed guests to engage directly with the designer and the creations, turning the fashion show into an experiential celebration of couture. Malhotra’s closing remarks emphasized the vitality of fashion, stating that couture and clothing are alive and meant to be celebrated.

Cultural Impact And Industry Response

The couture party marked a shift in how ashion is presented in India, moving away from rigid runway formats toward more immersive, narrative-driven experiences. Industry insiders praised the event for its originality and emotional resonance, noting that it set a new benchmark for future showcases.

Public sentiment included:

Appreciation for the blend of nostalgia and innovation
Excitement over the interactive format and celebrity presence
Recognition of Malhotra’s role in shaping modern Indian couture

The event also highlighted the evolving nature of India Couture Week, which now embraces diverse presentation styles and global influences while staying rooted in traditional craftsmanship.

Legacy Of The Showcase

Manish Malhotra’s couture party at ICW 2025 was more than a fashion event—it was a celebration of legacy, artistry, and reinvention. By turning the runway into a stage for storytelling and spectacle, Malhotra reaffirmed his position as a visionary in Indian fashion. As ICW 2025 continues, his showcase stands out as a defining moment in the evolution of couture presentation.

Sources: Mid-Day, India TV News, ThePrint, MSN India, PTI, NDTV, Hauterrfly

Stay Ahead – Explore Now! Deloitte India and SAP Launch AI-Led Delivery Centre in Bengaluru