Haute couture (and the Mizo)

Mizo youths are increasingly becoming more adventurous when it comes to exploring career choices. Today, the fashion industry has become a much sought after sector even amongst young Mizo men and women though it was not considered a viable vocation a few decades ago.

The recently held Fashion Expose by Mizo Niftians Association is one such manifestation of the growing popularity, and the sincerity and passion with which the world of fashion is embraced by aspiring fashion designers. 

The Fashion Expose exhibited collections by ten young designers who have graduated from the different National Institute of Fashion Technology across the country. The designers include names which are already well-known as well as debutants  - Susan R. Ralte, C. Lalramhlui, Barnadean Hmar, Lalrinsangi Ralte, Lalfakzuali (Afaki Hauhnar), Felnunmawii (Mawipuii), Maisie Rodingpuii, Lalremmawii (Sentei), Christina Lalmalsawmi and Lalruathlui (Mami).

the designers (three missing in the picture)

On 21^st October 2016, carefully handpicked and trained models walked the ramp to make history as the Expose by Mizo Niftian Association is the first of its kind. The recently launched Mizo Niftian Association (MNA) aims to create a platform for Mizo designers from NIFT to showcase their work.

 The talented 36 models (30 female, 6 male) walking the runway also testify to the professionalism that has seeped into the fashion scene in Mizoram. The freshness and vibrancy of all the collections kept the audience mesmerized.

Hollywood Glamour by Barnadean Hmar

Here are a few pieces by Felnunmawii (Mawipuii) a 2016 fashion graduate from NIFT Delhi. Though a recent graduate, she has quite a bit of experience in the field of fashion as a freelance designer for consultancies and as a freelance content writer for thecollective.in. She also runs her own fashion blog called Mawipuiloves (Mawipuiloves.blogspot.in)

Mawipuii's label

Brought up and educated outside her homestate Mizoram, the influence of the different cultures she has been exposed to is evident in her collection. The non-Mizo acquaintances she has made over the years and her observations of their cultures have heavily influenced her aesthetics. Her collection also reflects her personal style.

Mawipuii - the night of the Expose

Some of her creations

Mawipuii targets the urban tribe with her creations, seeking to make items of clothing that may be worn both formally and casually, depending on how her clients choose to mis-match them with other pieces of clothings.


Young, talented and driven, Mawipuii is certainly one to watch out for!!