Ujjainee Roy
Kate Middleton could be headed to India soon. Last time she was here, she wore an unforgettable Jaipur-inspired printed midi dress by Anita Dongre while playing cricket at Oval Maidan. But that was 2016, and Indian fashion has come a long way! Let's look at some desi designers who can style Kate now!
Tarun Tahiliani (for a state banquet or gala dinner)
For formal evening receptions (like the 2016 Bollywood gala where she wore Jenny Packham), Tahiliani’s mastery of India-modern drape could come in handy. A structured concept saree gown or a finely pleated tulle-and-chikankari evening silhouette in champagne or midnight blue would be perfect for Kate!
Amit Aggarwal (for a contemporary arts, tech, or sustainability event)
Amit Aggarwal’s signature bio-mimicry, sculpted metallic polymers, and upcycled Patola weaves can give Kate's styling an unexpectedly modern, edge. We recommend a structured, knee-length sculpted co-ord or a sharp shoulder-baring suit crafted from restored vintage textiles, from Aggarwal's RTW label i.am.it.
Pero (for casual daytime & youth/sports outings)
Kate loves some on-field action, be it basketball, hockey or cricket. For outings like these, she needs movement and breathability. A breezy, collared Chanderi or hand-spun cotton shirt-dress featuring subtle Bengal checks or blue-and-white floral block prints from Pero, paired with her go-to white canvas sneakers could work really well.
House of Masaba (for a Bollywood/red carpet event)
We'd love to see Kate in a high couture moment during her trip. And what better line than Masaba's electric 'Chardi Kala' collection, which dominated our Instagram feed for weeks? Maybe a slinky skirt saree with gold accents or a dramatic cape saree with gold zari and cutwork?
Raw Mango (for a daytime tete-a-tete)
This Raw Mango mogra jacket with a cream silk saree. That's it, that's the idea.
Lovebirds (maybe for a return to Taj Mahal?)
Literally anything from Gursi Singh and Amrita Khanna's Delhi-based label Lovebirds. This dynamic number, for instance, has layered ruffles and a bold contrast detailing which serves main character energy!