LIFESTYLE ASIA | Style - Vaishali S returns to Paris, but this time for a grand store opening
Paris is brimming with must-visit shopping destinations, from luxury boutiques and historical institutions to vintage haunts and contemporary concept stores. Yet, the sight of an Indian boutique creates unparalleled excitement, and that’s the feeling that Indian designer Vaishali S’ new space in Paris begets.
In 2021 Vaishali Shadangule made history as the first Indian woman to showcase at Paris Haute Couture Week and now becomes the first Indian designer to open a store in Paris. This achievement can not be just framed as a milestone for women designers but rather as a significant moment for Indian designers, underscoring the growing influence and recognition of India’s fashion industry on the global stage. After all, with her contemporary designs and sustainable flair, she’s spinning a narrative that artfully blends heritage with the avant-garde enticing customers all across.
Indian designer Vaishali S on opening her boutique in Paris:
“First of all, Paris. Paris is where couture lives and where I got my largest recognition,” states Vaishali. For her the city is synonymous with haute couture, attracting fashion enthusiasts from around the world. Her choice of location on Boulevard Saint Germain on the Southern bank of the river Seine was no coincidence. “This is where all big artists and designers made their home, alongside renowned brands. Not only am I next to Karl Lagerfeld and opposite Etro and Armani, but I’m also right next door to the iconic Café de Flore. It really feels and breathes Paris!”
The minimalistic design of the store aims to draw attention to the garments, which she believes have “so much to say for themselves.” With the garments at the centre, the aim was to create a distinctly Parisian atmosphere. She further shared that there is a blend of haute couture and prêt-à-porter pieces in the boutique. “You’ll see hints of Haute Couture both in the store and in the shop window, but for the first time, there’s a full-fledged prêt-à-porter collection—always with my unique personal print.” With notable neighbours like Karl Lagerfeld and Ralph Lauren, Vaishali is keenly aware of her place in this high-fashion environment. “My high fashion has already proven it fits well with Paris Haute Couture. I feel I am the new wave, and it’s on my shoulders to be more creative and innovative,” she emphasised. Her textile innovations, such as cording, aim to elevate these fabrics on a global scale. “This is my mission, and I’m starting to see the light. It’s vital for thousands of families, villages, and our heritage.”
As one of the first Indian designers to establish a store in Paris, Vaishali feels a deep responsibility. “I am the first Indian top designer to do so, and the message has been at the core of my mission for the last 24 years: Indian hand-woven fabrics are the best and can elevate good design to the pinnacle of global luxury couture,” she remarked. She has showcased her creativity six times at Paris Haute Couture and is proud to present Indian hand weaves “at their finest, perfect for an elegant dinner date in Paris.”
