Growing up on the East Coast of India, Bibhu Mohapatra’s appreciation for sumptuous Indian fabrics and vibrant colors began at an early age. This initial exposure to textiles and garment construction still inspires Bibhu’s designs and permeates his collections.

After moving to New York City in 1999, he enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Technology, simultaneously refining his skills as an assistant designer at the iconic American fashion label Halston.  During his senior year at FIT, Bibhu was awarded the prestigious Critic’s Award for Best Evening Wear Designer.

After graduating, Bibhu was hired by renowned French design firm, J. Mendel where he eventually became the label’s Design Director. After almost a decade at the helm of J. Mendel, Bibhu, struck out on his own with a couture collection of for a select group of private clients in New York, Europe and India.  Bibhu’s eponymous label, Bibhu Mohapatra, debuted its first collection during New York Fashion week in 2009. In 2010, Bibhu was a finalist for the Women’s Apparel Rising Star Award presented by the Fashion Group International. He later received the Young Innovator Award from the National Arts Club. In June of the same year he became a member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America. In 2011, Bibhu received the Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation Award.