In a world where luxury is constantly being redefined, Harper’s Bazaar Experience 2025 was a testament to its evolution, blending timeless artistry, compelling storytelling and forward-thinking design mastery. From celebrating Rohit Bal’s unique legacy to exploring the transformative power of media, design, craft and culture, the day highlighted a treasure trove of ideas and inspiration. Let’s look back at the moments that made it an unforgettable day.
It began with an ode to one of India’s most celebrated designers, Rohit Bal Retrospective. This is an evocative tribute to the legendary couturier who brought timeless pieces to life through his stunning showcases. It started with a stunning classical performance by Bal’s dear friend Ustad Zira Khan, followed by a stunning runway show. Additionally, Bar’s favorite muses walked in his clothes, embodying the essence of his artistry.
The talk was soon followed by Kari Pury, Vice Chairman and Editor-in-Chief, India Today Group, and Kim St. Clair Bodden, Senior Vice President, Global Editorial and Brand Director, Hearst, and Head of Group Digital. It started with a conversation with Sonal Ved. As the lifestyle editor of India Today Group, he talks about the role of media in the evolution of luxury. Their incisive conversation explored how media shapes luxury, from cultivating aspiration to embracing the dynamic possibilities of digital storytelling.
Next, in a session titled “Beyond Decoration: Rethinking Indian Crafts in Fashion Design,” Ms. Karishma Swari, Director of Chanakya International and Founder of Chanakya Foundation and Chanakya School of Crafts; joins Maximiliano Modesti and Sanjay Garg, founders of Les Ateliers 2M, and Supriya Dravid, founder of Raw Mango. In our conversation, we delved into a nuanced dialogue about the depth of Indian crafts. This lecture encouraged a reconsideration of the role of craft in contemporary fashion, highlighting its ability to bridge tradition and modernity.
The spotlight then turned to “The Business of Luxury: The New Landscape,” with Thomas Dobrowolski, Hearst’s Associate Director of Global Brand Development, Pushpa Vector, DLF’s Senior Executive Director, and Richa, Managing Director (India and Middle East). Mr. Shin took the stage. ) Unpacking the evolving paradigm of luxury commerce in conversation with Sonal Ved at the Natural Diamond Council. Sponsored by American Express, their discussion explored the rising trends of personalization and experiential retail and examined the concept of what constitutes luxury.
“Into the World of Luxury Accessories” focuses on luxury accessories, with L’alingi founder Alia Zaki Ali, Benedetta Burjiches founder, Benedetta Burjiches, and Janavi India founder Jyotika Jalani. We spoke with editor Ruchika Mehta. , India Today Group’s Luxury and Lifestyle, and as editor of Brides Today, we unravel the artistry behind their creations. This conversation served as a masterclass in storytelling and craftsmanship, prompting a deeper appreciation for these wearable works of art.
As the evening unfolded, ‘Evolution of Indian Design’ was an insightful exploration into the future of design in India. Shalini Misra, founder of Shakti Design Residency, Anita Dongre, founder of House of Anita Dongre, and Ridhi Khosla Jalan, interior designer and design content creator, sit down with Harper’s Bazaar India Editor Rasna Bhasin to talk about tradition, sustainability, and Global influences come together to shape contemporary aesthetics.
Then, for a masterclass on the legacy of haute couture and its purpose, fashion stalwarts Tarun Tahiliani and Pierpaolo Piccioli come together to discuss why haute couture is important and how it has shaped the modern fashion world. We discussed how we continue to inspire creativity, innovation, and timeless artistry. .
On this day, Cinematic Couture: The Art of Costume Styling in Bollywood features star designer and stylist Manish Malhotra in a fascinating conversation with Kali Pury, and actor Khushi Kapoor joins the cast in cinematic grandeur. The curtain has closed. Together, they reflected on the role of costume styling in creating some of Bollywood’s most iconic looks, fusing the magic of fashion and storytelling. There’s a lot of fun and an insider’s perspective to what inspires Bollywood outfits.
Also read: Manish Malhotra and Khushi Kapoor take you behind the scenes of Bollywood styling at Bazaar LuXperiences 2025
Also read: Pierpaolo Piccioli and Tarun Tahiliani reflect on the purpose of haute couture at Harper’s Bazaar Experience 2025
