From Asiatic Steps to the Italian Embassy: Vaishali S Celebrates 25 Years in Fashion

To mark 25 years in fashion, designer Vaishali Shadangule chose two iconic settings for her anniversary showcases: first, the historic steps of Mumbai’s Asiatic Library, and days later, the Italian Embassy in New Delhi. The Delhi presentation formed part of the embassy’s annual cultural evening, Serata Italiana, with Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani seated in the front row.

Serata Italiana became a perfect platform for celebrating textile heritage and intercultural dialogue. Tajani’s presence highlighted Italy’s recognition of India’s extraordinary textile legacy, as well as Vaishali Shadangule’s global influence as one of the world’s foremost handloom designers.

The showcase underscored how Indian textiles and design continue to shape contemporary global perceptions of handloom. Following the landmark Mumbai presentation at the Asiatic Library steps, the Delhi show traced Vaishali’s 25-year journey through sculptural handloom couture, the evolution of her signature cording technique, iconic archival pieces, and her evocative Andaman underwater artworks worn by her muses -- also displayed as art installations in Mumbai. The presentation additionally offered a preview of her much-anticipated menswear line and highlighted her commitment to traceability through barcode technology.

Each creation carried the stories of the 4,500 weaving families she supports, the craft ecosystems she sustains, and the global design language she has helped build -- from Vidisha to Paris.

“Presenting my 25-year journey within the Italian Embassy, in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Tajani at Serata Italiana, was unforgettable,” the designer said after the show. “Italy shaped my understanding of global fashion when I studied in Milan after being self-taught and already establishing my business, while Indian weavers have shaped my soul as a designer. The three Milan Fashion Weeks I participated in became the launchpad for my international career. This showcase is a tribute to the weavers, artisans, and traditions of India that continue to inspire the world.”