KGL, the Indian fashion label, released a new capsule collection today featuring Disney's Mickey & Friends characters reimagined through a distinctly Indian and surrealist perspective. The collection, titled "A dream that dreamed itself", combines KGL's deconstructed tailoring approach with Disney's classic characters and storytelling.
The 114-piece offering includes everyday essentials like crew-neck jumpers and graphic tees alongside more tailored items such as bodycon dresses and formal suits. Accessories complete the range with leather bags, totes, charms, and caps. Prices for the collection start at £35, with all items available on KGL's website from May 20th.
Founder Kanika Goyal developed the concept by merging her childhood memories of Disney with her cultural background and design sensibilities. "Collaborating with Disney, whose stories I grew up with, was the perfect way to bring together memories, identity and storytelling", Goyal explained in the press release.
The collection incorporates traditional Indian motifs with specific cultural significance. Chilli patterns represent protection, while paisleys symbolize continuity. Temple gate imagery appears as portals to imaginary worlds. These elements appear alongside Disney's familiar characters, creating an unexpected visual dialogue between Western animation icons and Indian visual culture.
One notable piece features Mickey Mouse looking out of a car window only to see Donald Duck reflected back. The surrounding design incorporates stars transitioning into paisley patterns and comets moving across skies that contain Indian script elements, creating what the brand describes as a "fluid, cinematic dreamscape".
The collection emphasizes gender-neutral silhouettes designed for versatility and everyday wear. KGL's production techniques include their signature approaches: deconstructed shapes, repurposed denim, and detailed hand embroidery treatments.
This release represents KGL's attempt to connect with consumers navigating both global popular culture and regional heritage, offering familiar Disney characters through an Indian design lens.
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Kristin Kaye
Insatiably curious about human expression, she immerses herself in literature, theater, art, and dance. Her academic journey led to degrees in Modern Literature, where she delved into The Furioso, and Historical Sciences with a focus on Contemporary History. Her studies took her to the prestigious Erasmus University Rotterdam, broadening her international perspective.
Her passion for culture isn't confined to personal enjoyment—it spills onto the pages of various publications. There, she explores not only artistic endeavors but also civil rights issues and the myriad ways human culture manifests itself. For her, writing about these topics isn't just a profession; it's an irresistible calling that stems from her deep-seated fascination with the human experience.