Purisai LFW

London Fashion Week, 2023

Inspiration

The collection draws from the performance tradition of Therukoothu, with a focus on the Purisai lineage.

It engages with costume, body, and transformation—where form is shaped not only by material but also by movement and performance.

The work considers how these elements can be extended into contemporary fashion while remaining connected to their original context.

Platform

Presented at London Fashion Week, 2023

Work

The collection explores:

• costume structures derived from Therukoothu performance
• transformation of form through layering and construction
• textile and silhouette shaped by movement

The garments are developed by translating elements of performance into wearable form, keeping structure and expression interconnected.

Collaboration

The work is developed in close association with practitioners of the Purisai tradition, including Purisai Kannappa Sambandhan and the performing lineage.

This engagement extends beyond reference, involving direct interaction with performance, costume, and the systems through which the tradition continues.

Presentation

The collection was presented as a live performance at London Fashion Week, integrating Therukoothu into the runway format.

The presentation brought together costume, movement, and narrative within a contemporary fashion context, extending the tradition's visibility beyond its regional setting.

Videos

Documentation of the Purisai presentation at London Fashion Week

Images