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Prabal Gurung: Fashion Icon and Cultural Trailblazer

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Prabal Gurung: Fashion Icon and Cultural Trailblazer

Prabal Gurung is a name synonymous with elegance, inclusivity, and cultural pride in the fashion world. As a Nepalese-American designer, Gurung has redefined luxury fashion by blending his South Asian heritage with modern aesthetics. From dressing global icons like Michelle Obama and Kamala Harris to championing social causes, Gurung’s journey is one of resilience and inspiration. In this article, we explore his remarkable career, recent achievements, and lasting impact on the fashion industry in 2025.

Who Is Prabal Gurung?

Born in 1974 in Singapore to Nepali parents and raised in Kathmandu, Nepal, Prabal Gurung is a celebrated fashion designer based in New York City. After earning a degree in hotel management, Gurung pursued his passion for fashion at Parsons School of Design. His career took off with internships at Donna Karan and roles at Cynthia Rowley and Bill Blass, where he served as design director for five years. In 2009, he launched his eponymous label, PRABAL GURUNG, which quickly gained acclaim for its vibrant designs and cultural storytelling.

Since 2017, Gurung has also been the creative director for Tasaki, a Japanese jewelry house, and as of December 2024, he serves as vice chairman of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). His memoir, Walk Like a Girl, released in May 2025, offers a candid look at his journey from Nepal to global runways.

Recent Achievements in 2025

Met Gala 2025: A Cultural Milestone

In May 2025, Gurung made headlines at the Met Gala, dressing stars like Shakira, Tessa Thompson, and Indian singer Diljit Dosanjh for the “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” exhibition. His designs generated nearly $5 million in media impact value, showcasing his ability to merge cultural narratives with high fashion. This moment underscored his commitment to diversity, as he has long advocated for inclusive representation on runways.

Walk Like a Girl: A Memoir of Resilience

Gurung’s memoir, Walk Like a Girl, published by Viking in May 2025, has been a pivotal release. The book chronicles his challenging childhood in Nepal, including experiences with bullying and abuse, and his rise as an immigrant designer in New York. It also highlights his advocacy for inclusivity and his efforts to reclaim derogatory phrases like “walk like a girl” as symbols of strength. Critics have praised the memoir for its raw honesty and inspiration, making it a must-read for fashion enthusiasts and those seeking stories of triumph.

Gold Gala and Social Advocacy

As a co-founder and board member of Gold House, Gurung played a key role in the 2025 Gold Gala, celebrating Asian Pacific leadership. His involvement in lighting the Empire State Building for AANHPI Heritage Month in 2023 and his ongoing work with Gold House reflect his dedication to cultural representation. Gurung’s activism extends to supporting causes like Planned Parenthood, the ACLU, and the “Stop Asian Hate” campaign, cementing his role as a changemaker.

Prabal Gurung’s Fashion Legacy

Gurung’s designs are known for their bold colors, intricate craftsmanship, and cultural influences, drawing inspiration from figures like Yves Saint Laurent and diverse sources like Nepali traditions and global literature. His gowns and dresses have adorned A-listers, including Oprah Winfrey, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kate Middleton, earning him a loyal following. His collections often challenge conventional beauty standards, embracing diversity in size, race, and identity.

In 2024, his fall collection showcased his signature style, blending tailored silhouettes with vibrant hues, as highlighted by Vogue. This collection further solidified his reputation for creating pieces that are both glamorous and meaningful.

Shikshya Foundation: Giving Back to Nepal

Beyond fashion, Gurung’s philanthropy shines through the Shikshya Foundation, established in 2012 to support underprivileged children in Nepal. The foundation funds education, workshops, and teacher training, impacting over 60 students. Gurung’s relief efforts following the 2015 Nepal earthquake raised nearly $1 million, showcasing his commitment to his homeland.

Why Prabal Gurung Matters in 2025

In an industry often criticized for exclusivity, Gurung stands out for his authenticity and advocacy. His work bridges cultures, challenges stereotypes, and amplifies marginalized voices. Recent posts on X reflect the public’s admiration, with users calling him a “trailblazer” and “pride of Nepal” for his memoir and runway successes.

His influence extends beyond fashion, inspiring designers and activists alike. As he told W Magazine, true freedom comes from letting go of external validation—a philosophy that resonates with his unapologetic approach to life and work.

How to Stay Updated on Prabal Gurung

To follow Gurung’s latest collections, advocacy work, and more:

  • Visit his official website, prabalgurung.com, for collection updates.

  • Follow him on Instagram (@prabalgurung) for behind-the-scenes content.

  • Check out Walk Like a Girl on Penguin Random House for a deeper dive into his story.

  • Explore Gold House initiatives at goldhouse.org to support Asian Pacific representation.

Conclusion

Prabal Gurung is more than a fashion designer—he’s a storyteller, activist, and cultural icon. From his vibrant designs to his powerful memoir, he continues to shape the industry with purpose and passion. As we move through 2025, Gurung’s legacy as a beacon of inclusivity and resilience only grows stronger. Whether you’re a fashion lover or inspired by stories of perseverance, Prabal Gurung’s journey is one to celebrate.

References:

  • Wikipedia: Prabal Gurung

  • AP News: Designer Prabal Gurung Reflects on Memoir

  • W Magazine: Prabal Gurung’s Memoir

  • Vogue: Prabal Gurung’s Fall 2024 Collection

  • Variety: Prabal Gurung on Gold Gala

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