When global couture meets Indian craftsmanship, the result is bound to make headlines. Shloka Mehta Ambani recently stepped out in a striking ensemble that beautifully merged Italian luxury with traditional Indian artistry.
Couture Meets Craft
Shloka was seen wearing a shimmering cut-out gown by Prada, layered with a handcrafted skirt from Swadesh. The sleeveless gown, embellished with sequins and precious stones, featured a dramatic back cut-out that added a contemporary edge to the look.
Balancing the high-fashion silhouette was a voluminous beige silk skirt created by Indian artisans. The textured layering elevated the outfit, offering a seamless blend of European couture aesthetics and homegrown craftsmanship.
Shloka accessorised the ensemble with statement diamond jewellery — a striking necklace, matching earrings, and diamond bracelets. Her hair was styled in a half-tied look, while her makeup remained soft and luminous with lightly kohled eyes and a natural dewy finish.
She is married to Akash Ambani, the son of Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries Limited.
When Prada Made Headlines in India
Prada’s relationship with India has drawn attention in recent years. During Men’s Fashion Week last June, the Italian fashion house presented leather sandals in its menswear collection that closely resembled traditional Kolhapuri chappals.
Kolhapuri chappals, a heritage craft from India, were granted Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2019, recognising their cultural and regional significance. The similarity sparked conversations online, with critics noting that the brand had not initially credited Indian artisans for the inspiration.
Following public discourse, Prada issued a statement acknowledging that its designs drew inspiration from traditional Indian footwear.
Prada’s “Made in India” Collaboration
In December, Prada partnered with Indian government organisations for a limited-edition collection inspired by Kolhapuri chappals. The project, titled “Prada Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals,” aimed to ensure that the sandals were manufactured in India in collaboration with artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka — regions known for handcrafted Kolhapuri footwear.
The initiative marked a step toward recognising and supporting traditional craftsmanship within a global luxury framework.
Shloka Mehta Ambani’s recent look, combining Prada with Swadesh, reflects a similar narrative — where international fashion and Indian heritage coexist in a thoughtfully curated statement.
