Structured silhouettes, layered textures and riveting details are all things that define the name Kunal Rawal – an eponymous label synonymous with the rise of revolutionary gender-neutral clothing.
The designer started young with his first clothing label in 2006, Dstress, after graduating from London School of Fashion and since then, there has been no stopping him. This was a stepping stone for the creative genius who is now one of the most sought-after designers in the country, favoured by many Bollywood personalities. However, it was Rawal’s father who first recognised his creative prowess.
Right: Beige Silk Sherwani
Looking back at the early days of his career, the designer says, “When I launched my first label, Dstress, my father was my sole investor, placing immense faith in me. His unwavering support continued when I introduced my couture label, Kunal Rawal.” Growing increasingly curious about his design journey, when we asked him what inspired him, Rawal expressed, “I grew up in a world immersed in textiles, as my father led an import-export business of garments. My initial understanding of fabrics and craftsmanship comes from him, and I implement that knowledge even today.”
With more modern men exploring their style, occasion wear continues to grow in design sensibilities, and the label taps into this shapeshift of Indian menswear by fusing global influences with cultural elements. “The men of today are seeking designs that are not only smart but also deeply functional. In a world where everyone is constantly on the move, the demand for clothing that offers comfort without compromising on style is more important than ever. Investing in smart design is no longer just an option but a necessity.” Furthering the conversation on his groundbreaking pieces that echo contemporary design, he says, “modern silhouettes like our deconstructed sherwani resonate with the new-age men, providing versatility and functionality without losing its edge.”
At India Couture Week 2023, Kunal Rawal showcased Dhup Chaon that made people, quite literally, straighten their backs and take notice. Every detail, every cut and crease exhibited master craftsmanship; however, the grand takeaway of this collection was Rawal’s reimagination of the turban. As the tunes of punjabi music set tone for the evening, the models strutted down the ramp wearing safa rims – a design confluence of the traditional pagri and military hats. “The future of men’s wedding fashion is all about embracing the essence of our cultural roots while innovating for the modern world. We continually draw inspiration from the rich tapestry of our heritage, but the key to cracking today’s market is knowing how to adapt these elements into the modern concept, without compromising on authenticity.”
Time and again, Kunal Rawal has delivered eclectic designs with a nod to the past. From Aditya Roy Kapoor’s patola jacket to Akash Ambani’s zardozi sherwani, the designer keeps the essence of Indian craftsmanship alive through a modern lens. While historically, occasion wear has always been about traditions, Rawal articulates, “today, ethnic clothing is no longer just about traditions; it has become an interesting investment that delivers timeless value and a lasting impression.”
Although the label’s menswear designs have been applauded and revered in the Indian fashion realm, he identifies his brand as an androgynous one. When celebrity stylist and fashion royalty, Anaita Shroff Adajania walked the ramp for Kunal Rawal at India Couture Week, her layered jackets and sharara pants epitomised this ethos perfectly. What sets Rawal’s creations apart is the employment of intricate techniques; “to stay ahead, we must understand modern demands while preserving the cultural authenticity that makes India so rich. We’re fortunate to be surrounded by a tapestry of traditional influences, design aesthetics, and craftsmanship. Every region in this country offers something unique, whether it is a new language, traditional, or style. The challenge and the thrill lies in drawing from this heritage, experimenting with it, and making it resonate with the modern fashion sensibilities,” says Rawal.
