Kriti Sanon Taps Into Her 'Wild' Side In A Black Mirror-Work Lehenga At Abhinav Mishra’s Couture Show

Kriti Sanon walked the runway in a black mirror-work lehenga featuring metallic embellishments and sculptural horse motifs at Abhinav Mishra’s annual couture showcase in New Delhi

Abhinav Mishra has a very recognisable couture language, but for his latest showcase, he added a touch of the untamed to that vocabulary. Titled Into The Wild 2026, the designer’s annual couture presentation brought together his signature mirror work and nature-inspired motifs that are certainly well beyond what you’d associate with a traditional bridal wardrobe. Actor Kriti Sanon was the evening’s showstopper and walked the ramp in a gorgeous black lehenga (we’re looking at you, bridesmaids-to-be).

The October 24 showcase took its cues from the animal kingdom, organic forms and the freedom of the natural world. What Mishra endeavoured to do with this show was to put Indian craftsmanship at the forefront without putting it within the confines of bridal dressing.

Lehengas remained an important part of Mishra’s design vocabulary, though they shared the runway with a far more eclectic wardrobe. Structured jackets with high collars, trench coats, wide-legged trousers, flared pants, layered wraps and three-piece ensembles walked alongside corsets, bustiers, kaftans and capes. High-neck tops and crop T-shirts added another dimension to the collection, suggesting that the designer was interested in the many ways his embellishment could travel beyond occasionwear staples.

We also loved the palette, which brought to fore the landscape that he took inspiration from. Earthy olive, muted sage, deep brown, rich red, black and dusty neutrals all adorned with animal-inspired prints and oversized florals gave the garments a sense of movement. Mishra’s mirrors, meanwhile, remained the collection’s brightest calling card. Metallic sequins, hand embroidery, zardozi, beads, leather sequins and laser-cut details added layers of texture, with metal accents and bells bringing further ornamentation to the mix.

For her runway appearance, Sanon wore a black mirror-work lehenga crafted in Neo-Tech fabric. Intricate hand embroidery, metallic embellishments and sculptural horse motifs punctuated the ensemble, offering a darker, more contemporary take on what we’ve come to expect of a heavily embellished lehenga. For Mishra, Sanon has long been a beacon of personal style and her willingness to approach fashion with confidence and individuality is precisely why he chose her to lead the finale.

Speaking about the collection, Abhinav said, “INTO THE WILD is inspired by animals, nature and the feeling of freedom. I wanted to bring that spirit into Indian bridalwear. Mirror work has always been my signature, and this time I have combined it with metallic sequins, distinctive motifs and prints. The collection feels a little adventurous, while still being beautiful and special for a bride. I wanted to explore how traditional craftsmanship could take on a fresh energy while remaining at the heart of what we do."

The set was also incredible, featuring monumental deer installations and sculptural figures that established the mood, while moss olive, forest green and deep chocolate dominated the décor. Firefly projections, shadows, branches and foliage, accompanied by ambient natural sounds, brought the wilderness theme into the venue. The experience also extended beyond the garments. Music, a recurring part of Mishra’s couture presentations, was developed in collaboration with ANHAD & TANNER under the designer’s creative direction.

The guest list included designer Varun Bahl, Taiwanese pop icon Cheng Chang Fan, creators Mannat Sandhu and Mohak Narang, and models Sheetal Mallar, Archana Akhil Kumar, Alicia Kaur and Kanika Dev, among others.