Young designers are exploring ways to give GenZ its identity, says SAKSHI PRIYA

In a world where fashion reflects the inner landscapes of the mind, soul and society, it’s heartening to witness collections that go beyond surface — level aesthetics. The latest student showcase from Pearl Academy did exactly that - offering garments as deeply personal expressions of identity, purpose, and emotion through their presentation titled Find Your Self.

There was nothing tentative about these creations. The collections felt mature, arresting and rooted in a contemporary sense of self, one that values introspection alongside innovation. This was fashion as statement, delivered with confidence and clarity.

Passion from the Ground Up

The first act, PASSION: “Make Nothing from Scratches”, set the tone with its bold use of up cycled materials.

DeadStock fabrics were given new life in daring designs that felt both raw and intentional. These pieces celebrated the courage to start from nothing and create something entirely one’s own. The silhouettes had edge, the energy was rebellious, and the message was clear: creativity begins fro within.

Purpose rooted in Craft

The third act, PURPOSE: “Reimagine”, brought the spotlight to craft and cultural identity. Designers used Indian pattern-cutting techniques in unexpected ways, blending them with global silhouettes. This created a collection that was both grounded and forward-looking, showing how design can reflect personal meaning while still speaking to a wider audience. There was a deep sense of care in the construction, and the pieces had presence without shouting.

A New Language of Fashion

What stood out throughout was the strength of vision and execution. Each collection posed questions and invited the audience to reflect on personal journeys, without prescribing answers.

These designers approached their work with sensitivity and skill, building collections that spoke with quiet authority. This was a fashion presentation rooted in meaning.

It marked a significant moment for the students involved, an opportunity to define their voice, engage with real-world ideas, and present fashion as a form of thoughtful storytelling.

The collaboration across fashion design and styling made the collections feel cohesive and considered, from concept to garment construction to the final look.

The Future is Already Here

‘Find Your Self,’ was a collective offering from a new generation of designers who view fashion not only as a creative outlet but as a way to process, question and express. From new, innovative designs to a growing focus on sustainability, fashion is always changing. If this is a glimpse of what the future holds, Indian fashion is moving into a space that is bold, sensitive and refreshingly real.

As we look ahead, fashion will continue to mirror society, showcasing creativity, modernity and inclusivity.

Love as a Lens for Understanding

Finally, LOVE: “Love is Blind” brought warmth and freedom to the stage. This part of the showcase explored connection — romantic, platonic, digital and otherwise. T

he garments embraced fluidity, with soft layers, expressive colour palettes and tactile fabrics. It felt open-hearted, full of emotion and grounded in the idea that love, in all its forms, teaches us something about who we are.

Through these expressions, we are reminded that love is an emotion but a powerful force that shapes our identities.

Redefining Success through Contrast

Next came SUCCESS: “Juxtapose”, offering a sharp look at what achievement means today. Strong tailoring sat beside fluid layers; traditional textiles met unconventional styling. The contrasts were striking, suggesting that the path to success is filled with opposing forces and shifting expectations. There was tension, playfulness and above all, honesty in how the garments approached this idea.