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Ananya Birla in Ashi Studio at the 2026 Met Gala

1/3 looks from the evening

This couture dress draws its inspiration from bronze sculptures in Indian culture and depictions of deities, reinterpreting their characteristic lines and draped forms in a contemporary way. The curves and folds have been carefully studied and translated into the structure of the garment, creating a silhouette that feels both fluid and defined.

The entire piece is built around a bronze tone, treated to resemble naturally oxidized metal. Shades of blue and green are hand-painted using a trompe-l'œil technique to evoke the patina seen on ancient statues, giving the surface depth and variation.

From the construction of the corset to the draping of the skirt, each element required precision and coordination.

Over 200 hours were dedicated to crafting the garment, with an additional 200 hours spent on hand painting to achieve the final finish.

Millipede under UV light. Many species of arthropods fluoresce, or glow, under ultraviolet light due to due to fluorescent compounds in their exoskeletons. At least one millipede genus, motyxia, is actually bioluminescent, meaning it can produce light on its own.