Payal Pratap’s “Kiss from a Rose”

Payal Pratap transported audiences into a world of vibrant nature with her Spring/Summer 2025 collection, “Kiss from a Rose,” presented in collaboration with FDCI at Lakmé Fashion Week 2024. Inspired by her own memories of lush flora and fauna, the collection reflected Payal’s love for nature, bringing alive the joyful elements that have shaped her journey as a designer.

The collection bloomed with vivid hues, creating a kaleidoscopic display of pixelated and surreal beauty. Fabrics such as handlooms, linen, cotton silk, duchess satin, denim, and georgette breathed life into garments that evoked a natural wonderland. The colors, reminiscent of the vibrant foliage from Payal’s memories, included deep-hued anthuriums, bright melons, sunflowers, bird of paradise, and phlox. These vivid tones were seamlessly intertwined with timeless shades of ebony and ivory, forming a balanced yet lively palette.

Embroidery and embellishments, Payal’s signature touches, adorned the collection with elegance. Cross-stitch embroidery, crafted with a mix of machine and handwork, pixelated floral patterns, appliqués, and graphic motifs gave the pieces a fresh, contemporary charm. The collection’s design also leaned into comfort, featuring oversized pant suits, co-ord sets, wide-leg trousers, and sportswear-inspired silhouettes, all reflecting a relaxed yet refined sensibility.

Feminine elements were highlighted through frills, gathers, and lingerie-inspired details. The collection brought together androgynous cardigans and sports jackets for a laid-back vibe, while retro skirts with twisted hems and denim splashed with wildflower motifs evoked Payal’s vision of a garden sanctuary.

Standout pieces included pretty blouses adorned with colorful blooms, oversized jackets, and abstract patchwork embellishments. Sheer shirts, long-sleeved blouses with dramatic yokes, and co-ord sets featuring checks and stripes added an eclectic yet cohesive touch to the collection, ensuring each piece was unique yet in harmony with the overall theme.

Accessories completed the look, with colorful handmade ballerinas, intricately designed stone jewelry, braided hair with ribbons, bucket hats, embroidered bags, and vintage glasses bringing a whimsical, bohemian charm to the collection. Payal’s attention to detail in her styling perfectly complemented the playful nature-inspired theme.

Designed for the confident, experimental woman, “Kiss from a Rose” spoke to those unafraid to embrace bold sartorial choices while staying connected to the beauty of nature. With this collection, Payal Pratap once again reminded the fashion world that her designs are not just about style but a tribute to the natural world that surrounds and inspires us.

Payal Pratap on Her Creative Process
“Creating this collection was a personal journey for me, almost like revisiting my childhood memories. Growing up in a beautiful garden, surrounded by flowers, always made me feel a sense of calm and comfort. It’s a tribute to my mother, who nurtured this love for nature in me. I remember how our breakfast conversations revolved around which flower bloomed that day. As I worked on this collection, I wanted to capture that feeling of warmth and protection, like a big hug from my mum. The designs reflect that—an expression of simplicity and joy, drawing inspiration from the natural world I grew up with.”