At Prabal Gurung’s New York Fashion Week show, models gracefully paraded down the runway in loosely draped chiffon and silk outfits, with an orchestra playing in the background. The Nepalese-American designer made a significant political statement during his ‘Holi Hope’ show at 1 Centre St. in New York City. Donning a shirt with the word VOTE, in the vibrant colors featured in his Spring 2025 collection, Gurung symbolized optimism for a hopeful future.
In an interview, Gurung shared that Holi, a festival of joy and abandon, inspired his collection with its themes of fun and unity. The sudden announcement of Harris as the Democratic presidential candidate amplified these ideas, pushing him to infuse his designs with even more optimism. This sense of hopefulness was evident throughout his collection, characterized by soft, illuminating hues perfect for both daytime and evening.
Gurung’s designs felt refreshing and inviting. An ocean blue blazer paired with a multicolor embellished dress and a white silk scarf flowing in the wind captured this essence. Similar shades of blue appeared in asymmetrical shorts matched with a colorful pastel top and blazer. Besides his bold use of color, Gurung also experimented with textures, showcasing tops adorned with dyed mohair flowers that were both impressive and eye-catching.
Gurung’s runway was also notable for its diversity, reflecting the hard-fought battles for inclusivity within the fashion industry. This advocacy for a more representative industry made his collection even more compelling. He also demonstrated his skill with evening wear, unveiling a unique red bandage halter top dress with pink silk ruffles and gold metallic elements in longer gowns, which made a strong impact.
Prabal Gurung’s collection embodied peace and tranquility while calling for a greater sense of action and positivity. By using his platform to inspire and empower others to vote, he is pushing for a more inclusive future and demonstrating the powerful role of fashion in driving social change.