Istituto Marangoni Mumbai's "vikAsah" Show: Emerging Designers Elevate Fashion Through Experimentation and AI

Istituto Marangoni Mumbai presented its 2025 Annual Student Showcase, "vikAsah", on July 18 at Famous Studios in Worli. The Sanskrit term, meaning 'elevation,' served as the central theme, encapsulating the graduating students' design explorations through experimentation, identity, and discipline.

A Stage for Growth

The runway design featured golden bamboo structures, reminiscent of Mumbai's ubiquitous construction scaffolding, symbolizing growth and progress. The event served as a vibrant gathering for industry leaders, creative minds, and the promising generation of Indian fashion designers, celebrating artistry and future possibilities.

Diverse Collections on Display

Sixteen graduating designers presented their unique perspectives, each showcasing four original looks. The collections, ranging from Rugved's Ache of Desire to Tanishi Rathi's Core-al Reminiscence, explored themes of fantasy, dystopia, nostalgia, and survival. United by a shared passion for storytelling through construction, textiles, and form, the designers displayed a wide array of styles and sensibilities.

Ananya Singh was awarded 'Fashion Design Student of the Year' for her thought-provoking collection, Carrier No.: 09'23. Handle with Care: Status—In Transit. Her designs explored the interplay between protection and vulnerability, depicting objects in transit, both secure and exposed.

Olfactory Art: The "Mumbai High" Scent

Istituto Marangoni Mumbai introduced a signature fragrance, Mumbai High, created by Astha Suri of Naso Profumi in collaboration with Mevin Murden. The scent captures the essence of Mumbai with its blend of salty ocean notes, cement, mogra, leather, and oud.

AI Integration in Fashion

The showcase explored the intersection of technology and fashion. Selected student collections were reinterpreted using AI-driven styling and visual tools, offering insights into future collaborations between designers and technology.

"Realm of Senses" Installation

Realm of Senses, an installation by Manuela Catania, provided a moment of contemplation. Suspended textiles, inspired by Sicilian winds and Indian spirit, encouraged viewers to embrace slowness, stillness, and sensory reconnection.

Collaboration and Craftsmanship

The event emphasized collaborative craftsmanship. Partnerships with Daniel Bauer Academy, Favini, Rilievi Group, and The Source by Sula enhanced the event, highlighting the fusion of Italian finesse and Indian artistry. The showcase celebrated the power of community and collaboration in design.