Tarun Tahiliani sidesteps the conventions of the runway at India Couture Week

A trail of deconstructed corsets, iconic historical paintings, mannequins showcasing his latest collection, and a curated display of garments adorned by models, is how Tarun Tahiliani steered clear of the traditional format for his latest couture showcase in New Delhi. Staged at the historic Bikaner House as part of Hyundai India Couture Week in partnership with FDCI and Nexxus, the couturier chose to display couture at an unhurried pace. The day was all about an immersive exhibition across nine thoughtfully curated rooms, titled ‘Navratna’. Each space revealed a different chapter of the atelier, from silhouette and craftsmanship to texture, technique, and the countless details that define every creation.

The presentation began with 20 models wearing conceptual couture that explored a new language of form—Ang, the Hindi word for "body". These sculpted bodices reinterpreted the human form through couture. Layers of padding, hand construction and meticulous tailoring carved the contours of the body, revealing collarbones, shoulder blades, the subtle curve of the navel and the quiet definition of the torso. Beyond the living presentation, the location transformed into an immersive journey through the Tarun Tahiliani atelier. Beginning with the corset toiles, followed by an immersive room where a single temple-inspired garment is juxtaposed with digital projections. The journey continued through the House’s enduring dialogue with the architectural language of the jali, brought to life through chikankari, zardozi and intricate threadwork, before moving into a celebration of India’s diverse textile traditions through ajrakh, kashidakari, and resham chikankari.

The journey culminated in spaces dedicated to feminine expression of the nautch girls, a series of bridal ensembles in red and the evolving language of Tarun Tahiliani menswear—each reflecting a distinct perspective on the dialogue between craftsmanship and contemporary design.

For Tahiliani, the runway has been the natural home of couture for years, but often the finest details disappear in motion. “With Bespoke Couture 2026, we wanted people to come closer, to slow down, and to experience the craftsmanship behind every garment. The techniques that define our atelier are centuries old, but the way we present them should continue to evolve. Technology isn't here to replace craftsmanship, but to honour it, amplify it and bring people closer to it. That, to me, is India Modern,” he shares.

For over three decades, Tahiliani has redefined Indian couture through a design language that balances exceptional craftsmanship with effortless sophistication. And the latest showcase continued this vision, presenting couture not simply as fashion to be viewed, but as craftsmanship to be experienced, and encouraged guests to slow down, observe, and countless details that reveal themselves only when you take the time to look.

Image credits: The brand

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