A fashion extravaganza
Chandon India has collaborated with fashion designer Manish Malhotra to launch two limited edition bottles under the Chandon Brut line for the upcoming festive season. We caught up with Stéphane de Meurville, Managing Director, Moët Hennessy India, and Manish for a quick chat on this collaboration:
How excited are you to collaborate with Manish?
Stéphane: My relationship with India is fairly new, but we all know that India is known for its vibrant festivities, celebrations — especially Diwali and weddings — and, of course, Hindi films. Manish beautifully stitches these together for Chandon. We are happy and excited about this collaboration and as this is the first for both.
What was your inspiration for the design of the bottles?
Manish: When I was approached by Chandon for this collaboration, we immediately connected on the foundation for the design by exploring France-meets-India. It was interesting to collaborate and create something outside the realm of fashion. It was important that references to bring the brief to life explored the richness of the French and Indian cultures and married savoir faire with traditions. Versailles is the epitome of this expertise. The architectural magnificence of The Hall of Mirrors, the play of lights and the painstaking detail of its gardens make the Palace of Versailles a cultural and historic centrepiece.
What was the most exciting part about this collaboration?
Manish: This is my first collaboration outside the world of fashion and I am delighted it has been with such a beautiful brand. When I heard the story of the brand’s genesis in Argentina and its journey across the world, I found a close analogy to the evolution of modern Indian fashion. When I started my label 12 years ago, I was known for my costumes in Hindi films. I set out to take the glamour from celluloid and infuse them into my clients’ wardrobes. The rest, as the cliché goes, is history.
Is this a special bottle for just the festival of Diwali?
Stéphane: We have launched a special limited edition bottle. If you are lucky and quick enough, you might just be able to get your hands on them for special occasions until the end of this season.
What is your favourite thing about India?
Stéphane: Indian culture is amazing and very different. Every day is a new day. It’s extremely interesting. Another thing I love about Indians is that they love to party.
It was really interesting to collaborate and create something outside the realm of fashion. MANISH MALHOTRA, FASHION DESIGNER