Amidst an overcast scene of waves crashing against dark rocks is Gaurav Gupta’s SS26 couture collection, Sirens Rising. We see a swooping, cascading mermaid hem with fabric pleated and manipulated in a way that mimics fish fins. Layers upon layers of pailettes that are intentionally placed to mimic glistening scales. Nude satin strips woven in a basket weave-like pattern on a corset with a fluidly draped skirt that contrasts against the craggy rocks it flows over. A bead encrusted, figure-hugging dress with clear stringed beads that look like water droplets is aptly framed by the frothing sea foam of the churning waves behind.
The 46 year old New Dehli-based couturier is no stranger to drama with garments sculpted in a way that that look painted to the body. He has dressed celebrities of the likes of Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion. The designer’s signature gravity defying pleated swooping sleeves are featured here and work so well with the nautical setting.
The tactile feast can be felt through the images all shot by photographer Tarun Kalyani. The models gazing longingly into the sea evokes the mythology of sirens of antiquity. We can always expect nothing short of breathtaking with any Gupta creation. The pieces in this collection are so painfully elegant that I fear I have fallen victim to the siren’s song.
Photoshoot credits:
Art direction by Sandy G
Photography by Tarun Kalyani
Videography by Parrafin Films
Makeup and hair by Umang
Production by Multimedia Communications
