The last time we chatted with Vaishali Shadangule, the soft-spoken designer from Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, was checking when they would allow her to open a shop on Mars! “Though I would prefer under the water!” she laughed. Vaishali had just opened her store at 188 Boulevard Saint-Germain in Paris, adjacent to Café de Flore, replete with her edgy, India-proud aesthetics, in September last year, during Paris Fashion Week. She’s had quite an affair with the City of Love since 2021, when she made her debut at the Paris Haute Couture Week, the first Indian woman to do so.
“For sure, the Paris Haute Couture, and now the Paris store,” Vaishali had told us about the biggest milestones in her 25-year journey. “The showcase during the Haute Couture Week gives a lot of visibility if you do a good job, which I think I did. It also sets a certain positioning for it, which is very important,” she had said.
This year marked her fourth consecutive return to the Mecca of unapologetic creative freedom that sometimes bewilders the mind. She picked Kintsugi as her theme. The dictionary describes it as: “A traditional Japanese pottery repair technique in which lacquer mixed with precious metals, especially gold, is used to fill cracks and replace missing pieces”. And, melded it with her eternal muse, nature. “My base elements are always two: inspired by nature and handlooms. Nature allows me to see things from a higher ground. I believe nature has all the world’s elements in it and, it is one single flow of nature that takes different shapes. These are the different definitions that I also try to give to my garments and the way I find my expressions. That is why when I am in nature, I feel connected and in deep understanding of what I create. I use my own language to give her voice. It makes me feel connected to a wider knowledge and beauty,” Vaishali said.
This time, in seashells, she found the “quiet poetry” of resilience and the beauty of healing in nature and nurture by nature, despite the odds and vagaries of time and experience. Vaishali’s Kintsugi said “ruin is a road to rebirth” and that a “thing of beauty is a joy forever”, through all its transformations. It championed the time-hardened cracks through which streams in replenishing sunshine, filling up the soul, which is beyond decay. Timeless.
Much like the crafts that have defined Vaishali’s creative canvas over the years, her pattern play and the sheer mastery of her vision, both vivid and powerful. The F/W 2025 presentation comprised 28 looks in silk-by-silk weaves and Murshidabad silks. Stunning cording, folds and drapes made for statement charm, laced with sea Goddess drama that was subtle and elegant. The lovely old-world feel of the ambassador of India’s private residence (2 Rue De General Lambert, Paris), as a setting, added to the magic wrapped in a certain simplicity.
Post-show, Vaishali shared her thoughts on the collection with t2oS and gave us hints of a big reveal, coming up soon.
What about Kintsugi was appealing to you as a theme?
Kintsugi reflects the very foundation of our brand — finding beauty in what’s broken, in what has endured. Much like Indian weaves that carry stories through imperfections, the philosophy of Kintsugi speaks of resilience, healing, and transformation — all values we deeply embody.
How did you interpret the theme in the collection? What are the various techniques that you have used?
We translated the theme through both structure and surface — spiralled drapes, asymmetrical cuts, and raw, organic silhouettes reflect the journey from brokenness to rebirth. We used intricate cording, hand-embroidery, and slow weaving techniques — especially Murshidabad silk — to create depth, dimension, and texture, like the veins of gold in repaired porcelain.
Can you tell us about the use of solid colours and what each signifies in the collection?
Each colour is symbolic. Pearl ivory reflects purity and renewal, coral dust represents quiet strength, oxidised bronze speaks of weathered beauty, and deep ocean blues invite introspection. Our solid tones allow the textures and techniques to speak — just like the quiet power of scars in Kintsugi.
Why is Paris special to you?
Paris is where tradition and avant-garde coexist. It’s the only stage that truly understands the discipline, time, and artistry behind couture — and it allows us to present Indian handwoven textiles not as ethnographic objects, but as timeless global luxury.
What has been the response to your Paris outlet?
The Paris boutique has been a beautiful exchange — clients are fascinated by the story of every weave and surprised by how sculptural and modern Indian textiles can be. It’s validating our belief that true luxury is about soul, not speed.
What have been the lessons learnt?
That staying rooted in purpose is more powerful than chasing trends. The world is ready for meaningful fashion — but we must be patient, consistent, and deeply connected to our craft and community.
What are your things to do in Paris?
Beyond work, I love walking around the Marais or the Left Bank, discovering artisanal stores and antique fabric shops. Paris feeds my curiosity — it’s where I go to reconnect with silence, movement, and form.
What do you make of the global wave that India is making right now?
It’s inspiring. India’s design voice is being heard, not just for its heritage but for its innovation. There’s a new narrative forming — one where craft and consciousness are shaping the future of global luxury, and I’m proud to be a part of it.
Who is your favourite international designer from this season’s calendar?
I appreciate designers who push boundaries while staying true to their materials. This season, I found Iris van Herpen’s work particularly moving — her interplay of art, science, and storytelling resonates with the way we approach textile and form.
What is next for Vaishali S?
Yes, something very meaningful is taking shape soon — a vision I’ve held close for a long time. While I can’t share all the details yet, it will be a landmark moment dedicated to celebrating Indian handlooms on a truly global platform. It’s not just a fashion event — it’s a tribute to the artisans, the ancient weaves, and the living heritage that defines us. At the same time, it’s a leap forward — blending tradition with innovation, craft with couture, and storytelling with sustainability.