Radhika Merchant’s striking appearance in a vintage Vivienne Westwood piece from the 1990-91 ‘Portrait’ collection steals the spotlight at the British designer’s debut show in India.
Radhika Merchant, known as the “choti bahu” of prominent Indian business figures Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani, drew significant attention for her fashion choices during the Vivienne Westwood show held at the Gateway of India in Mumbai. The event, which marked the British designer’s debut fashion show in India, saw a host of celebrities donned in English-inspired attire, but Merchant’s outfit stood out.
At the show, Radhika Merchant made a striking entrance with her choice of a vintage piece from Vivienne Westwood’s archives. Specifically, she wore an ensemble from the designer’s esteemed 1990-91 “Portrait” collection. This line is particularly notable in the fashion world, recognized for introducing the iconic Vivienne Westwood Boucher corset. Fashion commentator Alexander Fury highlights the significance of this collection, stating, “Sensuous and escapist, it set Vivienne Westwood on a new course for almost a decade.” Furthermore, he noted that the “Portrait” collection was dedicated to the intricate beauty of eighteenth-century oil painting and included the first instance where a painting was reproduced on clothing—specifically, the artwork “Daphnis and Chloe” by François Boucher.
The Vivienne Westwood event was held against the picturesque backdrop of the sea, adding to the aristocratic aesthetic that permeated the atmosphere. With the visual spectacle of the fashion show and the high-profile attendees, Radhika Merchant’s regal demeanor and her thoughtful styling choice captured the essence of modern sophistication intermixed with opulent heritage. Her appearance has been widely praised, showcasing not only her personal fashion sense but also the continued influence of Vivienne Westwood’s designs on contemporary fashion in India.
The Times of Bengal reports on the event, highlighting how Merchant’s look resonated with both modernity and nostalgia for classic artistry in fashion.
Source: Noah Wire Services
