Puneet Gupta’s ‘Whispers of Versailles’ clutch collection marries Rococo elegance with modern flair
In a realm where artistry meets indulgence, designer Puneet Gupta unveils Whispers of Versailles—a fantastical clutch collection that channels the decadence of 18th-century France with a distinctly modern flair. Known for transforming accessories into statement pieces of wearable art, Puneet invites us into a dreamscape where rococo elegance, Parisian patisserie palettes, and Indian craftsmanship converge in dazzling harmony.
A look at Puneet Gupta’s ‘Whispers of Versailles’ clutch collection
Each clutch in this collection is more than just an accessory—it’s a storybook, told through shimmering beadwork, vibrant hues, and a touch of theatrical whimsy. As we sit down with Puneet, he opens up about the inspirations behind this enchanting collection, his vision for global couture rooted in Indian heritage, and the magic that happens when creativity is allowed to wander through the gilded halls of Versailles.
Excerpts:
What inspired the unique fusion of Rococo elegance and whimsical patisserie motifs in the Whispers of Versailles collection?
The inspiration came from a desire to merge two worlds of indulgence—18th-century Versailles with its ornate Rococo aesthetic, and the whimsical charm of a French patisserie. Both are rich in visual storytelling, detail, and sensory delight. We wanted to reinterpret that romance and fantasy through the lens of couture accessory design, creating pieces that are extravagant, yet full of playful imagination.
Each clutch takes up to 200 man-hours to craft—what does this meticulous process involve from concept to creation?
It begins with a narrative—what story the bag should tell. I sketch and sculpt the concept, followed by material selection and base construction using mdf wood and cotton. The most intensive phase is the bead embroidery, where artisans spend countless hours hand-placing each bead to bring the design to life. Every step is hands-on, slow, and intentional—true to the spirit of handcrafted luxury.
How do materials like silk and wood contribute to the structural and aesthetic identity of each piece?
Wood forms the sculptural base, giving each clutch its unique silhouette—be it a cake, crown, or castle. Silk, with its subtle sheen, adds softness and elegance. Together, they create a juxtaposition of strength and delicacy, allowing each piece to feel both substantial and ethereal—perfectly suited to our vision of wearable art.
The clutches resemble French cakes and desserts—what led to this playful, imaginative approach to design?
There’s something universally joyful about desserts—they’re celebratory, nostalgic, and visually delightful. We wanted to capture that essence and reinterpret it through a couture lens. The idea was to take something whimsical and render it luxurious, merging fantasy with finesse. It's fashion with a wink—exquisite, yet full of personality.
In what ways does the collection reflect the grandeur of Versailles while maintaining modern, wearable appeal?
The grandeur of Versailles is reflected in our use of ornate embellishments, opulent forms, and detailed artistry. However, the bags are designed with modern sensibilities—vivid palettes, bold shapes, and functionality. This contrast allows each piece to bridge the past and present, making them relevant for today’s fashion-forward audience while echoing regal sophistication.
Can you tell us more about the beadwork techniques used and how they help bring each design to life?
Our beadwork draws from traditional South Asian techniques like zardozi and aari, but we adapt them to sculpt three-dimensional textures and vivid motifs. Thousands of beads are meticulously hand-embroidered to build depth and dynamism. The craftsmanship transforms static shapes into lively, emotive creations—every bead adding nuance and narrative to the design.
How do you ensure each clutch remains both a statement piece and a functional fashion accessory?
Functionality is integral to our process. While the form is imaginative, we ensure each clutch has a thoughtfully designed interior, secure closures, and optional chains for ease of use. We want our customers to feel like they’re carrying something special, but without compromising comfort or utility.
With such intricate designs, how does the brand maintain quality and exclusivity across the collection?
We work in small batches, often limited edition, to ensure exclusivity and control. Our artisans are trained in-house to meet the highest standards of craftsmanship. Every piece undergoes stringent quality checks, from material integrity to embroidery precision. This hands-on approach is what allows us to preserve both artistry and consistency.
How do you envision someone styling or wearing a Whispers of Versailles clutch for a modern-day event or gala?
These clutches are designed to be the star of any outfit. They pair beautifully with minimalist silhouettes—think sleek evening gowns or sharply tailored ensembles. For themed soirées, destination weddings, or fashion-forward galas, they offer that perfect mix of drama and charm. They’re not just accessories—they're statements of artistic expression.
Prices start at INR 20,000.
Available on request.
