Bibhu Mohapatra F/W 25: Heritage, Love, and Resilience
New York Fashion Week witnessed an emotional and deeply personal journey as Bibhu Mohapatra unveiled his Fall/Winter 2025 collection. Drawing inspiration from his childhood in Odisha, India, and a sacred pilgrimage to three of India’s holiest sites, Mohapatra crafted a collection that is as much a tribute to his family as it is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage that continues to shape his artistry.
A Sacred Journey, A Personal Tribute
The collection’s genesis lies in a deeply emotional pilgrimage Mohapatra undertook with his family to perform the traditional final rites for his late parents and brother. This journey became a profound exploration of love, loss, and the enduring influence of his family—particularly the women who shaped his upbringing. “The Fall 2025 collection carries the spirit of my family and particularly the women in my life—their stories, their grit, and the grace with which they lived their lives,” Mohapatra shared. “It is my most personal collection to date, threading together an intimate exploration of those I have loved and lost, and a celebration of the iconic culture that continues to shape me.”
Architectural Silhouettes and Handcrafted Artistry
The collection is a masterful blend of architectural silhouettes, voluminous outerwear, and intricate hand craftsmanship, embodying the essence of powerful dressing. Mohapatra reimagines the traditional Indian woman with a modern, sophisticated vision, creating pieces that are both timeless and contemporary.
A bespoke palette of deep nude, ivory, plum, and rose gold unfolds across knitwear, tailored pants, oversized outerwear, and elegant evening and cocktail ensembles. The collection also introduces innovative textiles, including faux leather, custom-woven lace, and velvet embroidery, designed to echo the artistry of traditional rice paintings. Each piece is a testament to Mohapatra’s dedication to craftsmanship and his ability to weave emotion into fabric.
Floral Motifs and Sensory Immersion
Floral motifs play a central role in the collection, reflecting their deep cultural significance in Indian traditions. This theme is brought to life not only through the garments but also in the show’s setting. Flowers adorned the backdrop and models’ hair, while guests were welcomed with delicate blooms. Jasmine, flown in from India, was placed on each seat, creating an immersive sensory experience that honored heritage with a contemporary touch.
Collaborations That Elevate the Narrative
The collection is further elevated by two exceptional collaborations. The first is with Tanishq USA, the renowned Indian jewelry brand celebrated for its mastery of gold and precious stones since 1994. For Mohapatra, this collaboration was a natural prelude to his long-held aspiration of creating a fine jewelry line. Tanishq’s exquisitely crafted jewelry took center stage, bringing India’s legendary artistry to a global audience.
“Tanishq USA is thrilled about this partnership with Bibhu Mohapatra, which was born from the natural synergy between the inspiration behind our creations and the essence of Bibhu’s work,” said Amrit Pal Singh, Business Head of Tanishq USA. “Both celebrate a modern interpretation of India’s rich eclectic nuances, bringing them to global audiences. Our designs are crafted to complement the bold statements at the heart of his collection, enhancing its core elements with elegance and sophistication.”
The second collaboration is with Paul Austin and Austin Advisory Fragrance, featuring their Odisha Reverie scent. “The scent you embraced in the air—Odisha Reverie—is the essence of my Fall 2025 collection,” Mohapatra explained. “The heart of Odisha Reverie is Jasmine Sambac, a timeless symbol of devotion, entwined with the grace of women who weave these blossoms into their hair. The vibrant spices and smoky tea notes evoke the crisp winter mornings and languid summer nights of Odisha, where the air carries the scent of life and tradition.”
A Celebration of Heritage and Modernity
The Bibhu Mohapatra Fall/Winter 2025 collection is a celebration of heritage, love, and resilience. It is a testament to the enduring power of family, culture, and artistry, and a reminder that fashion is not just about clothing—it is about storytelling, emotion, and the connections that define us.
Special Thanks
Mohapatra extended his gratitude to the collaborators and teams who brought his vision to life, including Tanishq USA, 0770, Barbara Berman, Cat Pope, Chad Thompson – Communa-K, Joseph DiMaggio for DUOMO, Javier Peral, Maite Moirena for New York Makeup Academy, Mayuri’s Floral Design, Paul Austin and Austin Advisory Group, Pattie Yankee, Preciosa, Voss, and The Hinton Group
Photo Credit: INDIGITAL
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