Bibhu Mohapatra, Fashion Designer from India Creating Collections for Powerful and Inspiring Women
Bibhu Mohapatra grew up on the east coast of India in Odisha. In 1996, Mohapatra moved to the United States and attended college at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). Before starting his own brand in 2008, Mohapatra designed for Halston and served as the creative director of J.Mendel. The New York-based designer has empowered women through his designs and became a member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) in 2010. Bibhu Mohapatra’s creations have been loved by many powerful, inspiring women such as Michelle Obama, Eva Longoria, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Emily Blunt, and Céline Dion.
When did your love for fashion begin?
I believe I started showing my creative interest in fashion at the early age of 12/13 years. At that time I had no concept of fashion as a career or business, all I knew was that I loved creating shapes out of sheets of fabric which came to life and spoke to me once I draped them on a human body.
Did you always know that you wanted to be a designer?
I always knew I wanted to be in a creative field, and creating fashion was the strongest affinity I had. I had a lot of support and encouragement from my family to pursue this passion of mine.
Who or what inspires you when you’re designing?
I am inspired by many things but I'm most inspired and moved by people and their stories. Besides this, I love to travel to new countries and explore the cultural fabrics that make up the unique communities within.
How has your cultural background influenced your designs?
I always say that my heritage runs in my veins. I count on the influences I had growing up in Odisha. I am not afraid of colors and that is because I grew up in a culture where the use of color is often seen as a personal birthright.
Your Fall / Winter 2023 collection is filled with warm hues, bright pops of color, intricate embellishments, strong silhouettes, and a beautiful mixture of textures. What was the inspiration behind this collection?
I have been looking to the life and works of someone who has been influencing me for a long time. Nancy Cunard: the poet, heiress, muse, and political activist, who played a pivotal role in the significant historical events that occurred during her lifetime. Artists, writers, social workers, photographers, and musicians, all found that unique flame in Nancy that made her a muse and a collaborator to all of them. Known for her avant-garde, eccentric, and interesting sense of style, Cunard lived a fascinating life of love, passion, influence, and eventually, self-destruction. For her courage and tireless fight against inequality and racial injustice, Nancy Cunard is always going to be my hero and I dedicate my Fall 2023 collection to her life.
Is there anyone you’d like to work with in the future?
Cate Blanchett.
You also have a fine jewelry collection, Artemis, tell us about that.
The Artemis Collection is exclusively designed by me for DeBeers Forevermark for the contemporary woman, to inspire and illuminate the world with an ever-glowing inner beauty. Four key motifs have been interpreted into unique and exquisite pieces of jewelry that include bangles, pendants, earrings, rings, and brooches.
What has been your proudest moment so far?
I have been fortunate to have a few of those, but the first thing that comes to my mind is the time Michelle Obama wore my outfit and landed in India. It was an incredible moment.
Are there any new projects you’re currently working on or looking forward to?
One of the exciting things is the opening of our New York flagship store in Tribeca, in Manhattan. We hope to finish furnishing by the Fall so we can have a party.
What do you want your brand to represent?
My clothes speak volumes about unique design integrity and tell an authentic story.
What is your life motto?
Work hard, stay focused, and be nice along the way.
Social Media.
Instagram: @bibhumohapatra
Article by Taylor Houston, Assistant Fashion & Beauty Editor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Isabella Gonzalez, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine
*All photos courtesy of Bibhu Mohapatra
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