Drawing from the timeless symbol of continuity and relentless transformation, Karishma and Avantika Swali’s brand, Moonray, has launched ‘The River’, a collection that delves into the river’s role as a powerful, ever-changing force shaping human history and culture.
A variety of handcraft techniques, including hand-woven fabrics, appliqué embroidery, and embellishments with river pearls and crystals are highlighted in this collection. Inspired by meandering rivers and glistening droplets, it features floral cut-outs (seemingly inspired from the Valentino denims of Spring Summer 2024) and custom hand-illustrated prints that evoke riverbank landscapes.
Technicolor glass beads mimic sunlight on the water, while the ‘river pearl’ series explores the quest for pearls with jeweled motifs. Hand-illustrated prints of river paths enrich the narrative of flowing waterways. The palette of calming blues, serene pinks, and lush greens reflects the riverbank scenery. Fabrics include organic cotton, FSC-certified viscose, raw denim, taffeta, and crepe, with tailored corsets, voluminous skirts, and structured jackets showcasing intricate needlework and fluid silhouettes.
“Rivers are revered across cultures as sources of life — providing nourishment, sanctuary, and healing, while fostering cross-regional dialogue. The moonray fall/winter collection pays tribute to the river’s timeless and transformative nature, celebrating its profound impact on both the environment and human life. Each piece reflects a contemporary expression of traditional culture while honouring the river’s serene yet powerful energy, and its profound connection to our own personal journeys,” Karishma Swali, Founder & Creative Director, said.
Moonray collaborates with craft clusters throughout India to merge traditional techniques with modern design. Crafted entirely from hand-woven and hand-spun fabrics, this collection honors Maheshwar’s storied handloom tradition with a contemporary twist.
Another starry collection unveiled by the brand is ‘Métier’ which features handcrafted, made-to-measure garments. Building on the esteemed heritage of its parent company, Chanakya International (popularly known for its embroideries for Dior), Métier is an annual capsule that merges traditional techniques with modern innovation.
As part of a preservation initiative, Métier revitalizes ancient craft techniques at risk of being lost. Eighteenth century Renaissance lace is reimagined through modern needlepoint methods, producing innovative new designs.
The intricate allure of three-dimensional floral motifs is rendered using an array of mixed media, including Swarovski crystals, fire-polished beads, micro petals, cross-stitch, and natural stones, creating opulent floral arrangements. Geometric patterns formed with crystal grids evoke a modern take on armor.
Each piece exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship, tailored to a contemporary audience while honoring traditional expertise.
