FDCI X Pearl Academy unveils First Cut at Lakmé Fashion Week

FIRST CUT stands as a testament to Pearl Academy’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of fashion innovators.

Pearl Academy, the creative education institution established in 1993, in collaboration with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), presented ‘FIRST CUT’, its groundbreaking student showcase at Lakmé Fashion Week on March 30, 2025, in Mumbai.

This year’s theme, “Find Your Self”, was inspired by the upcoming film Mannu Kya Karegga, which is based on the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai:The Secret to a Long and Happy Life. The showcase delved into the emotional, psychological, and societal shifts shaping today’s youth, offering a profound exploration of fashion, resilience, and the human spirit.

The philosophy of Ikigai teaches that true happiness lies at the intersection of passion, mission, vocation, and profession. Through fashion, Pearl Academy’s students translated these essential pillars into a visual and tactile narrative, reflecting on the aftermath of global catastrophes and the search for happiness in an uncertain world.

A platform for emerging talent

FIRST CUT stands as a testament to Pearl Academy’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of fashion innovators. For years, the institution has provided its students with a platform to showcase their creativity at Lakmé Fashion Week, one of the most prestigious events in the industry. This collaboration with FDCI underscores Pearl Academy’s dedication to excellence and its pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian fashion.

Aditi Srivastava, President, Pearl Academy, said, “This season, FIRST CUT at Lakmé Fashion Week went beyond aesthetics. It was an exploration of what truly fulfills us in a world of uncertainty. Our young designers crafted narratives that questioned success, purpose, passion, and love. Through their vision, we witnessed the resilience of a new generation and the power of fashion as a force for introspection and change.”

Sunil Sethi, Chairman, FDCI, added, “At FDCI, we are committed to providing emerging talent with meaningful opportunities to shape their future in fashion. FIRST CUT is a platform that nurtures young student designers from Pearl Academy and gives them the exposure they need to make an impact in the industry. Fashion is an evolving dialogue, and this showcase allows students to engage with its transformative power. We were thrilled to witness their vision come to life on the runway.”

Thematic acts: A journey to find your self

The showcase took audiences on a transformative journey through four thematic acts, each a pillar of Ikigai, guiding the search for self-discovery. It began with PASSION: “Make Nothing from Scratches”, where raw creativity met sustainability as students breathed new life into deadstock fabrics, crafting bold, rebellious silhouettes that symbolised the courage to create from within. Next, SUCCESS: “Juxtapose” challenged conventional notions of achievement, blending unexpected layers and unconventional styling to reflect the evolving, often contradictory paths to finding one’s true self. PURPOSE: “Reimagine” delved into tradition, reinventing Indian pattern-cutting techniques to create garments that honoured heritage while embracing a global identity, symbolising the quest for deeper meaning and authenticity. The journey culminated in LOVE: “Love is Blind”, a vibrant celebration of love in all its forms—innocent, digital, mature, and beyond—exploring how connection and inclusivity help us understand ourselves and others. Together, these acts wove a narrative that was as thought-provoking as it was visually stunning, inviting audiences to reflect on their journey to ‘Find Your Self’ in a rapidly evolving world.

FIRST CUT has a rich history of addressing global issues through fashion. Past editions have explored themes like the post-COVID world, the impact of wars and natural disasters, India’s moon landing, and the rise of AI. This year, the focus shifted inward, urging audiences to rethink success, purpose, and joy in an era defined by uncertainty.

For Pearl Academy students, FIRST CUT was more than a fashion show—it was a life-changing opportunity to present their work on a national stage, gain recognition from industry leaders, and take their first steps toward a successful career in fashion. Students from Fashion Design and Fashion Styling collaborated on this showcase, blending technical craftsmanship with artistic vision. Each thematic area was meticulously curated, from concept development to garment construction and styling, ensuring a holistic and immersive fashion experience.

As a special highlight, three lucky attendees of the showcase won exclusive tickets to the premiere of Mannu Kya Karegga, further bridging the connection between fashion, philosophy, and storytelling.