Imphal: Manipur's handloom traditions reached a global stage in Russia. Designer Lily Lairenlakpam, who founded Shirui Lily Closet, brought her craft to an international fashion festival running from October 19 to 23, 2026. She pushed a collection titled "Threads of Manipur - A Legacy of Heritage and Elegance." It was a bold move.
The clothes mixed old-school weaving with modern cuts. Lairenlakpam drew inspiration from the state's natural beauty, featuring floral headpieces modeled on the Shirui Lily. These pieces emphasized the link between fashion and the environment. Large images of the historic Kangla Fort and the Shirui Lily served as a backdrop for the models. A Manipur Tourism video also played for the crowd, grounding the runway show in the state's deep cultural history.
Harshit Dhingaun, Chairman of the Delhi Fashion Club, teamed up with Lairenlakpam to organize the display. This partnership gave indigenous textiles a platform to reach international buyers. The move aims to boost awareness of regional fabrics and open doors for traditional weaving communities. Organizers hope this helps preserve local practices while growing the reach of Manipuri designers on the world stage.
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