Vogue goes to India

Don't call me biased, but I think the world's most beautiful women can be found on the subcontinent.  Seems like the international fashion scene is finally catching up with Condé Nast launching Vogue India this past September. 

Priya Tanna, editor of Vogue India comments that "Vogue's launch in India symbolizes India's arrival onto the global fashion scene.  India is ready for a magazine that is intelligent, sophisticated, and understands the stylish, modern woman.  Every issue will celebrate the somen who define and influence the new Indian modernity with grace, style and achievement."

The first-ever cover of the glossy monthly featured a gorgeous array of supermodels and Bollywood actresses including Bipasha Basu, Gemma Ward (an international Vogue staple), Priyanka Chopra, Moni Kangana, Preity Zinta and Laxmi Menon.  The issue was styled by British Vogue's Lucinda Chambers and shot by Patrick Demarchelier. 

Here's the cover of the first issue:

Here's the full pull-out version of the cover:

The first issue paid tribute to Bollywood:  Pulitzer Prize-winning author Suketu Mehta explores its impact; director Karan Johar and designer Rajesh Pratap Singh debate over whether film dictates fashion or vice versa; Bipasha, Priyanka and Preity reveal their style secrets and much more. 

The launch was celebrated in due style with an extravagant gala at Umaid Bhavan Palace in Jodhpur (this location may sound familiar as it was the site of Liz Hurley's super-hyped wedding to Arun Nayar), Rajasthan where a photo exhibit was debuted entitled Vogue:  A Love Affair with India.

The December issue of Vogue India features the Gauri Khan, the low-key wife of Shah Rukh Khan.  The issue places Gauri, usually in the background, in the spotlight.  I've always been intrigued by Mrs. Khan, in that she never seems as stylish or coiffed as she could be.  I kind of liked that about her.  What I love about this cover is that it doesn't seem contrived at all - she looks confident, regal and incredibly toned in this spectacular red dress:

Comments

[Dr. Shamira]

I looove this issue of Vogue - they all look so beautiful. I think the statement it makes it paramount - fashion has come to the East and its about time!