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Decoding the Swarovski Mesh

Fashion’s flashiest, sparkliest, and the most luxurious fabric decoded - Swarovski Mesh

By Indigene

Posted onNov 1, 2017

The Origin

Founded in 1895 by Daniel Swarovski, the Austrian company Swarovski is widely known for its cut crystal creations. In 1993, for the first time, the company tried its hands at something other than traditional crystals and the mesh was born.

Daniel Swarovski

The Mesh

The crystal mesh is a fluid metal net awash with crystals -- approximately 31,460 of them -- in a single sheet measuring 500mm long and 200 mm broad. It is available in 15 effects and 36 colours, and has gone on to become a red carpet and designer favourite.

The Swarovski Mesh

The Celebs

In September 2014, Jennifer Lopez rocked the stage in a silver mini Atelier Versace dress at an event in New York City. The same year, actor Gwen Stefani shimmered on the red carpet in a longer version of the dress with similar metal placements on her first outing at the Emmys.

Jennifer Lopez

The Designers

First used in Alexander McQueen’s Spring 1999 show and later at the Atelier Versace Fall 2014 Haute Couture show, this exquisite element has been explored by cutting-edge designers like Hussein Chalayan, Mary Katrantzou, and Christopher Kane. This innovation carved out a brand new area for high-glamour fashion. Even today, the crystal mesh remains one of the most sought-after Swarovski products, appealing to all the top designers.

Alexander McQueen Spring 1999

In India

After making its mark in Europe amongst top couture houses like Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, and Louis Vuitton, the mesh is homing its way effortlessly into India. In December 2015, designer Suneet Varma debuted his crystal mesh collab with his first ever Western haute couture show. Crystal mesh amped up the glamour quotient of his flowing evening gowns and draped dresses. Last year, for the India Couture Week, designer Gaurav Gupta teamed up with Swarovski to celebrate the brand’s 15 years in India. He created a beautiful bridal collection adorned with a stunning palette of crystals from Swarovski. He also presented a unique mélange of bridal ensembles, including a mix of contemporary lehengas and dreamy ball gowns. To befit his concept of new age couture, Gaurav married fluid structures with vintage renditions.

Gaurav Gupta