Luxury fashion brand Vivienne Westwood made history on April 1 by hosting its inaugural fashion show in India. Set against the iconic backdrop of Mumbai’s Gateway of India, the event was nothing short of a spectacle, graced by celebrities and fashion enthusiasts alike.
The red carpet was packed with A-listers, but it was Radhika Merchant who stole the spotlight. The young fashion icon turned heads with a custom-made saree paired with a classic 1990 Vivienne Westwood corset, blending vintage charm with Indian heritage.
Radhika’s timeless ensemble
Styled by Rhea Kapoor, Radhika’s look was a stunning fusion of Western elegance and Indian tradition. The ivory silk corset featured a breathtaking print of François Boucher’s 18th-century painting Daphnis and Chloe. With its sleeveless silhouette, sweetheart neckline, and asymmetrical hemline, the corset exuded sophistication and old-world glamour.
Paired with a bespoke silk saree that mirrored Renaissance-style artistry and featured an opulent golden border, Radhika’s outfit was a perfect homage to both Vivienne Westwood’s legacy and India’s textile craftsmanship. Draping the pallu gracefully over one arm, she added an ethereal touch to her ensemble, making a strong fashion statement.
Minimalist glam
Keeping her accessories minimal yet impactful, Radhika opted for a white choker necklace with a dazzling studded stone, complemented by diamond ear studs. A black beaded bracelet on one wrist added a subtle contrast to her overall aesthetic.
Her beauty look followed the theme of understated elegance. With her hair styled in a tousled bun and a neat middle part, she let her outfit take center stage. Soft nude eyeshadow, defined black eyeliner, voluminous lashes, contoured cheeks, and a hint of pink lipstick completed her flawless appearance.
DietSabya on Instagram posted a video of Radhika’s BTS shoot in this outfit and captioned it, “#DsExclusive: Like a renaissance painting!! Radhika Ambani styled by @rheakapoor in @viviennewestwood 1990 original corset featuring François Boucher’s painting of Daphnis and Chloe with a custom ombré sari.”
Ahead of the event, Vivienne Westwood’s official Instagram handle teased the much-anticipated show with a post on March 31. The caption highlighted the significance of the location and the brand’s admiration for India’s artisanal textile heritage. Hosting a fashion show at the Gateway of India served as a symbolic nod to the country’s deep-rooted influence in global fashion and craftsmanship.
With its fusion of historical artistry and contemporary design, Vivienne Westwood’s India debut was a celebration of culture, creativity, and couture.
