Home / Arts and Entertainment / Met Gala Cape: A 960-Hour Tribute to Indian Artisans
Met Gala Cape: A 960-Hour Tribute to Indian Artisans
5 May
Summary
- Manish Malhotra's Met Gala cape took 960 hours and 50 artisans to create.
- Artisans' names and signatures were intricately embroidered on the cape.
- The design showcased traditional Indian embroidery and Mumbai's cultural landscape.
Manish Malhotra's second Met Gala appearance was a deeply personal tribute to the artisans behind his designs. He donned a black bandhgala paired with a striking architectural cape, meticulously crafted over 960 hours by 50 artisans across Delhi and Mumbai. This unique garment served as a canvas for traditional Indian embroidery techniques like dori work, zardozi, chikankari, and kasab, rendered in a subtle ivory palette.
The cape's most remarkable feature was the inclusion of the artisans' names and signatures, embroidered to honor their contributions. This elevated the garment into a moving homage to the individuals who make craftsmanship possible. The design also subtly incorporated references to Mumbai's cultural and cinematic heritage, adding layers of meaning.
Sculptural, three-dimensional elements on the shoulders depicted artisans at work, reinforcing the central theme of craftsmanship. Malhotra himself stated the look celebrated Indian craftsmanship's global presence. Other attendees, like Camila Mendes and Sudha Reddy, also showcased Malhotra's creations at the event.
