A couture saga where Baroque reverie meets Roaring Twenties, whispering the tales of Etheria.

In the world of haute couture, where artistic visions find form in fabric and elegance takes center stage, the name Shantnu & Nikhil resonates as a hallmark of refined luxury and creative innovation. The duo behind this iconic brand, Shantanu & Nikhil have unveiled a mesmerizing couture collection that draws inspiration from the opulence of the Gatsby era and the allure of Roman Palaces. This collection, known as “Etheria”, is not just a display of fashion; it’s a fusion of history, artistry. and emotion, meticulously crafted to transport us to the enchanting days of early 1920s Italy.

FL: You recently unveiled a marvelous couture collection inspired by the Gatsby era and the allure of Roman Palaces. What was your motivation behind this specific theme?

S&N: We have always been in awe of Roman influences, Baroque architecture and the tales of long gone past. When we traveled across Italy a few years back, somehow, the artistic influences struck us, which we now see in the form of Etheria. The collection is a descendant of a gorgeous town called Catania in Sicily. Etheria weaves together the essence of old-world charm from the enchanting days of early 1920s in Italy where fashion was magical, whimsical and extravagant. Inspired by the grandeur of Roman palaces, a seamless fusion of Indian and Roman influences creates a tapestry of magnificence that ignites the imagination.

FL: Shantnu & Nikhil is a significant brand name in the bridal wear niche. Could you share some insights into your approach to bridal couture and your design philosophy?

S&N: The wedding trousseau is such an emotional possession that brings up so many memories when you repurpose it. It should be filled with pieces that you can go back to and relive your memories in. We understand the importance of classics and pay close attention to the details. The classics you purchase today will become family heirlooms in the future. We consciously make an effort to include our storytelling via mediums and techniques we use. For Shantnu & Nikhil couture, we’ve used baroque lace embroidered in dori work. The menswear range has velvet texturing of pin tucks with metallic details. Our latest collection, Etheria, has been emboldened by an array of colours merging from Blush Pink, going into pristine Off-White, Mint-Gold- all an ode to the magnificent interiors of a Baroque palace.

FL: Sustainability and ethical fashion practices are gaining importance in the industry. How does Shantnu & Nikhil incorporate these values into your designs and production processes?

S&N: Lately, fashion hasn’t been just about sporting the new trend, it is about an ethical approach towards a better environment while looking chic. We’ve noticed a shift in how people feel about fashion these days; they’re a lot more emotive in their decisions and responsible in their consumption. Brides are looking for timeless pieces which can be worn a few years down the line and can be re-loved, re-owned, and reused. Fashion is being looked at as a fraternity of global impact and community for change. We have integrated this shift in our philosophy & are now envisaging a future focusing on art, creativity, sustainable development and collaborations.

We are a part of ABFRL, a conglomerate that is constantly exploring new opportunities to be more sustainable through our #ReEarth pledge. From reducing carbon emissions to going 100% plastic free, we are rethinking our brand models to showcase relevance and resilience. As a brand we have reinvented our production model to ensure no overproduction on either side of the brand. While couture follows a more seasonless, bespoke model of design now, we ensure limited inventory for S&N where the same inventory is shared between the physical & digital stores thus controlling production.

Furthering our new manifesto we even launched a one-of-its-kind sustainable initiative ‘The Buy-Back’-a programme that allows proud owners of Shantanu & Nikhil couture to exchange their old outfits for credit values that they can use on their next purchase. This not only drives responsible consumerism but also ensures controlled production at our end.

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FL: Collaboration with celebrities and influencers has become a prominent trend. How do you decide on the right partnerships for your brand?

S&N: With every collaboration we aim to open a new door for us, with regards to our audience, our design ethos and our vision. A collaboration must put forward our true version of the brand along with the other entity we are joining hands with. Both of us should resonate with each other’s core values, and have the same approach in reaching out to patrons. Our recent collaboration with Sara Ali khan and Aditya Roy Kapoor was one such collaboration for us. In their respective journeys, both the actors have been an established haven. When such ideologies amalgamate so fluently together, we know we have the right collaboration in our hands.

FL: Collaboration with artisans and craftsmen is often integral to creating unique designs. How do you work with them and support traditional craftsmanship in your collections?

S&N: We have an army of artisans and craftsmen who we are very proud of, and who constantly push themselves to make Maison Shantnu & Nikhil what it is today. Every Karigar comes with their own skill set and thus upon recognising that we work in tandem to their craft. We take the traditional craft and fuse it with European techniques which uplifts their skill bank as well as adds value to S&N core. Whenever we invent a new silhouette we ensure that our team is trained by a senior designer.

FL: Is there any particular kind of craftsmanship or technique that has recently caught your eyes and that you would like to incorporate in your creations?

S&N: As a brand which has been in the couture gambit for over 23 years, we’ve had the privilege of experiencing our work evolve season after season. Nowadays we are focusing more on our archival silhouettes, embroideries, drapes and more. In Etheria, we’ve revived our signature zipper detail with a new twist. After visiting so many techniques and styles that have a core brand value, it truly inspires us and helps us create a strong brand identity.

FL: Talking about one of those segments specifically, the modern Indian groom seeks unique and stylish outfits for weddings. How do you approach designing wedding attire for men in the face of the rise in their fashion consciousness and evolving preferences?

S&N: Menswear is a niche domain and we’ve witnessed a major evolution in the way men make their sartorial choices nowadays. Men have been more experimental lately and designers are constantly creating designs that cater to them. Millennials have been venturing into more androgynous ensembles which aren’t restricted to any gender and have a sense of movement to them. As a brand we’ve been more observant towards these demands from our patrons and are constantly on the lookout for inspirations which are anti-trendsetting. Being the signature drape-makers for menswear in the industry, our silhouettes like the Draped Kurta and Draped Bandhgala have become iconic staples in the menswear market today. This shows us how the men aren’t far behind from women in sporting their fashion-forward styles.

In the intricate tapestry of haute couture, Shantanu & Nikhil have carved an indelible mark. Their “Etheria” collection stands as a testament to their creative brilliance, merging Roman opulence with the allure of the Gatsby era. With each creation, they weave a narrative that resonates beyond fashion, embodying artistry, heritage, and a commitment to a better world.

Text by: Sanskriti Sharma