Bibhu Mohapatra was born in Odisha, India. His early years formed the expanding spirit of everything he sees and creates. His mother Sashikala, instilled in him at an early age a near obsession with handwork and textiles as well as a deep appreciation for making clothes that function and symbolize something powerful.

In his early 20s Bibhu immigrated to the United States for graduate school and later enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T) in New York City.

In 1997, Mohapatra was awarded the F.I.T.’s Critics’ Award for Best Evening Wear Designer of the Year. He gained the attention of top luxury brands and, while finishing at F.I.T., was hired by Halston as an assistant designer. In 1999, Mohapatra accepted the role of design director of the French furrier, J. Mendel, where he lent his talents for nine years.

Following J. Mendel’s spring 2008 collection, Mohapatra moved on to establish his eponymous label. The designer has received numerous awards and is globally recognized for his elegant womenswear and jewelry. He has dressed former U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama, as well as some of Hollywood’s elite from Glenn Close, Hilary Swank, and Jennifer Lopez to Taraji P. Henson, Mindy Kaling, and Lupita Nyong’o among many others.