How new wings took flight - Lavina Peswani

Sometimes, in the darkest corners of our world, we find flashes of incomparable courage. My project “New Wings” was born of that unwavering spirit. Every illustration, pattern, and scarf in this collection is a tribute to women who, despite unimaginable physical and mental abuse, discovered their own spark of independence and hope. They remind us that even when our wings feel clipped or broken, we can learn to fly again — on wings newly formed through strength and resilience.

The photography series “Behind Closed Doors,” by the renowned photojournalist Steve McCurry, first awakened this vision in me. His haunting images spotlight women in parts of Asia and Saudi Arabia who faced brutal treatment at the hands of their employers — yet they stood firm, determined to provide for their families back home. Witnessing their etched scars and enduring resolve stirred me profoundly, and I knew I had to merge my passion for design with their powerful stories.

In creating “New Wings,” I was further inspired by the courage of women like Bibi Aisha of Afghanistan, Immaculée Ilibagiza of Rwanda, Anuradha Koirala of Nepal, and a group of acid attack survivors in India. Their tales are simultaneously terrifying and awe-inspiring, shining examples of how human dignity can thrive against all odds. With this collection, my hope is to celebrate their bravery, honour their fight for freedom, and remind each of us that no matter how broken we feel, it is never too late to rise — and to discover our own new wings.