“I dedicate this international achievement to my entire community” – Sonal Desai
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], October 13: A historic moment for Gujarat’s rich cultural heritage and the traditional handicraft of the Maldhari community unfolded recently at London Fashion Week. Sonal Desai, a daughter of the Maldhari community from Randheja, Gandhinagar, and the founder of the brand FLAPPER6, showcased her special designer collection—Summer 2027 “BECOMING”—consisting of around 25 distinct designer garments crafted using traditional Rabari embroidery, hand embroidery, and Jeko beadwork. The fashion show took place on September 20, 2026, at the Fashion Scout Protein Studios in Central London during the international London Fashion Week. The event also witnessed publicity in the international magazine like Fobs and other, which is a pride moment for the entire Madhari community.
The fashion show, held during London Fashion Week from September 17 to 21, 2026, saw participation from fashion designers across the globe. FLAPPER6 founder Sonal Desai presented a fusion of Indian craftsmanship and modern luxury fashion. Her collection incorporated techniques such as Rabari embroidery, Jeko beadwork, hand painting, wool, leather, and digital prints. Amidst the presence of global designers and fashion enthusiasts, the garments—featuring the cultural heritage of the Maldhari community, striking color combinations, and unique patterns of traditional hand embroidery—drew immense attraction.
Sharing her experience of London Fashion Week, FLAPPER6 founder Sonal Desai stated, “It is a matter of immense pride for me, our entire community, and our country to present our Maldhari community’s embroidery art and receive global recognition at London Fashion Week, one of the five most prestigious fashion shows held worldwide. I dedicate this international achievement to my community. Rabari embroidery is not just work on fabric; it is our rich cultural heritage and identity.”
Sonal Desai further added, “In this fashion show, around 25 garments crafted through techniques like Rabari embroidery, Jeko beadwork, hand painting, wool, leather, and digital prints were showcased. My childhood dream of taking the traditional art of Rabari embroidery to the international level has been fulfilled today due to the presence of our brand FLAPPER6 at London Fashion Week. More than 80 women associated with us have played a vital role in making this dream a reality. Through their hard work, our community’s identity has reached the global stage.”
FLAPPER6 co-founder Shaileshbhai Desai shared that the 25 distinct designer garments worn by various models at London Fashion Week were created based on the “Make in India” theme.
He noted that their effort in this fashion show was to combine the rich tradition of Indian handicraft with contemporary design to establish a new identity in the international fashion world. The collection strictly adhered to high international quality standards, earning the brand appreciation and prominence in global media.
