New Delhi, Sep 27 (IANS): Noted fashion designer Wendell Rodricks has been honoured with Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et Lettres for his contributions to the fashion industry. The designer will be conferred with the award at the forthcoming Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (WIFW), here.

"Thank you France for bestowing on me a distinction that has gone to the likes of T S Elliott, Audrey Hepburn, Jeanne Moreau, Marion Cotillard among many illustrious artists and writers. I am still digesting it," he posted on his official Facebook page Friday.

"Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et Lettres (Knight in the National Order of Arts and Lettres) Thank you Minister of Culture and Communication Ms Aurélie Filppetti, Paris and His Excellency French Ambassdor to India Francois Richier. To be recognised by a foreign country... Je suis vraiment honore et touché. Merci. Vive La France," he further posted.

The honour is given to persons who have distinguished themselves by their creativity in the field of art, culture and literature or for their contribution to the influence of the arts in France and throughout the world.

Bollywood celebrities like Anurag Kashyap and Kalki Koechlin have been honoured with the award previously.

And Rodricks is happy to be in their company and said: "they have taken their craft and art to another level way beyond Hindi cinema".

He will collect the award at the WIFW, starting Oct 8.

"I have not yet collected the award. It should happen in Delhi during Wills India Fashion Week," the designer told IANS in an email interview.

The designer was bestowed with Padma Shri award earlier this year.

Meanwhile, Rodricks is ready with his new collection, Yoga Calm, which not only promises to satiate fashion sense but inner spirit also.

"I am in a zen space where all the garments are clean and pure. Making the collection has truly calmed me in both thought and spirit. I am sure it will have the same effect on the audien”e," said the designer.