Rahul Mishra’s AFEW spring collection takes inspiration from Indian girls in rural villages who relocate to big cities to follow their dreams.

While they embrace Western culture and navigate Instagram and social media, these young women remain deeply connected to their traditions.

They blend modern fashion with traditional Indian elements, incorporating accessories like the dupatta (a long scarf), the bindu (the third eye dot painted on their foreheads), and delicate stacks of golden bangles adorning their wrists.

“It’s a global approach,” Mishra explained during a showroom appointment in Paris. He envisioned a girl who is “a bit vulnerable, somewhat brave, and curious about the modern world,” yet still appreciates her cultural roots. Mishra pointed out that local traditions are increasingly being absorbed into a globalized culture, which can make everything feel homogeneous—a perspective that resonates strongly.

Mishra’s collection features an ‘easy-to-wear’ aesthetic that blends international appeal with Indian styling references. The traditional kurta—an elongated T-shaped tunic often paired with fitted pants—serves as the foundation for crisp white cotton shirtdresses embellished with tone-on-tone embroidery at the hem.

Pleated skirts worn over leggings take inspiration from Jaipur’s multi-paneled kurtas, reimagined in bold floral prints. Floral motifs and irises are also embroidered in sequins on charming sundresses and masculine shirts, employing patchwork techniques similar to those used by rural Indian women to personalize their kurtas.

“There’s strength in preserving your culture; wealth isn’t just about money,” Mishra remarked. “It’s about culture, upbringing, and family values.”