Rahul Mishra Transforms Tod’s Icons into Embroidered Works of Art

The latest Tod’s Factory project sees Indian designer Rahul Mishra adding his signatures onto bags and footwear.

Mishra articulates that the Rahul Mishra x Tod’s collection derives from “inspiration drawn from nature, my perpetual muse, creating timeless in-house motifs and the unique foliage characteristic of my designs.” Kaarigar artists were engaged to embellish leather with nature-inspired embroidery. The Tod’s Gommino loafers and mules feature embroideries shaped like Mishra’s Tree of Life design, crafted with silk on black velvet and accented with leather for men, while the women’s Gommino loafers are also available in metallic nappa leather. Comparable techniques are utilized on the Di Bag and the Timeless T shoulder bag, enhanced with sequins, crystals, and beads.

The latest Tod’s Factory initiative merges Italian handmade traditions with Indian artisanal techniques. Esteemed Indian designer Rahul Mishra, celebrated for his exceptionally detailed designs inspired by India's cultural past, reinterprets a selection of Tod’s iconic items for both men and women, infusing them with elements of luxury intended for visibility and admiration.

The Tod’s Factory project constitutes an artistic discourse that transcends the mere incorporation of Indian artisanal processes into Tod’s iconic designs. The initiative commenced in 2018, initially collaborating with Italian fashion designer Alessandro Dell’Acqua, and has subsequently included partnerships with notable creatives such as the late Alber Elbaz, Hender Scheme, and a triadic collaboration with Moncler and Palm Angels. Tod's Factory provides these creatives exclusive access to the brand's artisans and expertise in Italy's Marche area, while revitalizing iconic Tod's designs.

The most recent Tod’s Factory edition is undoubtedly distinguished by its embellishments alone. The Gommino loafers for men are an ideal evening choice with suits, while the Timeless T mules effortlessly elevate a traditional white shirt and jeans ensemble. When the pieces are this exquisite, they merit the utmost attention.