Supriya Lele Unveils A New Blue For Bentley
Move over, Yves Klein—there’s a new shade of blue captivating the world. Bentley Motors’ bespoke division, Bentley Mulliner, has teamed up with acclaimed London fashion designer Supriya Lele to introduce Nīla Blue, a custom, one-of-a-kind hue available exclusively to Mulliner customers. The collaboration brings together Bentley's dedication to luxury and Lele’s modern artistic flair, creating a striking fusion of automotive design and high fashion.
‘Colour plays a key role in both my practice and brand identity,’ says Lele. ‘This shade of blue feels distinctive yet subtle, slightly different from the usual. It's this nuanced difference—the inability to exactly define it— that I love about creativity.’
This vibrant shade finds its inspiration in Lele’s Indian heritage, drawing its name from the Sanskrit word for ‘sapphire.’ Like its namesake, the colour is rich, intense, and almost otherworldly—a hue that echoes the depths of a midnight sea beneath a starlit sky. Tranquil yet powerful, it captures mystery and elegance in equal measure, seamlessly blending personal history with artisanal craft. Infused with layers of personal and cultural significance, this distinctive blue represents a unique fusion of heritage and artistry, crafted to captivate and inspire.
Her affinity for the colour is enriched by the philosophical musings of William Gass in his 1976 work On Being Blue. In it, blue is dissected as a symbol of passion, melancholy, and intrigue—all markers of Lele’s signature sensual designs. This layered inspiration transforms blue from a simple shade into an emotional landscape, bridging cultural roots with themes of intimacy and complexity.
The Bentley Bentayga S serves as the perfect canvas for Lele's vision. Here, the bespoke Nīla Blue exterior paintwork comes to life, enhanced by elegant pinstripes that grace the 22” sports wheels. This exquisite combination transforms the vehicle into a masterpiece of refined expression, showcasing a harmonious blend of artistry and automotive excellence.
In collaborating with Lele, Bentley Mulliner not only highlights their affinity for the realms of fashion and art but also showcases their exceptional capability to bring each customer's unique vision and style to life. This partnership exemplifies Mulliner's bespoke craftsmanship, where meticulous attention to detail meets artistic creativity, resulting in tailor-made vehicles that reflect the individuality of their owners.
‘The Bentley Mulliner Bespoke Studio continues to push the boundaries of what is possible,’ explains chief commercial officer David Parker. ’Nīla Blue is an expression of subtlety and depth, a tone that reflects both Supriya’s artistic vision and Mulliner’s expertise in crafting the finest bespoke finishes. It is a hue that speaks to the discerning tastes of those who appreciate quiet luxury.’
Nila Blue is available to customers exclusively via the Mulliner Bespoke Studio.