09 December 2025, Mumbai
Bhavitha Mandava has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian model to open a Chanel show, leading the prestigious Métiers d’Art runway in New York. This landmark moment extends beyond the world of fashion; it strategically signals a profound acknowledgment by Chanel of the escalating influence and economic power of the Indian luxury consumer.
Chanel's decision to entrust the opening look to Mandava, a model from Hyderabad whose career began serendipitously after being scouted in a New York subway, is a powerful narrative of global inclusivity and a localized connection. This aligns seamlessly with the French Haute Couture house's evolving strategy in India, a market where the luxury apparel segment reached $7.50 billion in 2024 and is forecast to grow to $10.70 billion by 2033, representing a CAGR of 3.60 per cent. The emotional video of Mandava’s parents reacting to her achievement went viral, highlighting the significant cultural resonance such global recognition holds for the aspirational Indian middle class.
Historically known for its strict boutique-only exclusivity, particularly for ready-to-wear and leather goods, Chanel recently made a definitive pivot toward the Indian digital consumer. In 2024, the brand launched its official e-commerce platform in India, offering nationwide delivery for beauty, fragrance, and eyewear across more than 27,000 pin codes.
This strategic move, alongside partnerships with luxury curators like Nykaa, is explicitly designed to cultivate the next generation of high-end consumers in a market where the wealthy consumer base is projected to hit 100 million by 2027. Mandava's historic opening further amplifies the brand's visibility and cultural capital, reinforcing Chanel's commitment to a market that is rapidly becoming a core pillar of the global luxury landscape.
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