India Couture Week 2026: Anamika Khanna’s ‘Moonlit Palace’ Blends Tradition With Bold Reinvention
New Delhi: Designer Anamika Khanna opened Hyundai India Couture Week 2026 with her collection “Moonlit Palace”, marking the first time the prestigious fashion event has been inaugurated outside Delhi. Presented in association with Nexxus New York as an FDCI initiative, the collection celebrated the evolution of Indian craftsmanship while remaining deeply rooted in tradition.
According to the designer’s brand, Moonlit Palace is inspired by the idea of “mémoire”, reimagining a lost civilisation through couture where garments become vessels of memory, craftsmanship and transformation. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant artistry of Rajasthan’s Barmer and the minimalist visual language of Kolkata’s Kalighat, Khanna showcased a blend of richly embroidered ivory-and-gold ensembles alongside striking black sculptural silhouettes.
The collection featured draped sari-gowns, ornate floral-embroidered separates, dramatic capes, structured bodices and intricately embellished couture pieces that balanced heritage with contemporary design. The showcase highlighted the enduring legacy of Indian artisans while presenting a modern interpretation of traditional techniques, setting the tone for this year’s India Couture Week.
