Published By: Devyani

From Mumbai to Milan: Why Global Stars Are Choosing Indian Designers in 2025

Indian couture captures global spotlight as celebrities embrace rich traditions and bold innovation on the world stage.

In 2025, the global fashion scene is seeing a remarkable shift. Indian designers, long revered for their craftsmanship, intricate handwork, and rich cultural influences, are making waves on the international stage. From Mumbai to Milan, the world’s biggest stars are choosing to wear Indian designers, creating a strong cross-cultural bond between Bollywood’s sartorial brilliance and global fashion. This phenomenon is a testament to the immense talent and growing influence of Indian fashion, as the world takes notice of its elegance, creativity, and diverse aesthetic.

The Rise of Indian Designers on the Global Stage

Over the past few years, Indian fashion designers have carved out a space for themselves in the international fashion circuit. Designers like Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Manish Malhotra, Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, Anita Dongre, and Falguni Shane Peacock have become household names not only in India but around the world. Their exceptional skill in blending traditional Indian techniques with modern sensibilities has captured the attention of international celebrities and fashion icons.

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Sabyasachi Mukherjee, for instance, is known for his opulent, intricately designed garments that often feature traditional Indian embroidery like zari, gota patti, and threadwork. His collections, characterized by a timeless appeal, have graced international red carpets and fashion shows, worn by global icons such as Beyoncé, Priyanka Chopra, and Deepika Padukone. This international acclaim has propelled Sabyasachi, and other Indian designers, into the global spotlight.

Bollywood’s Role in Popularizing Indian Fashion

Bollywood, with its global reach and influence, has been a significant force in promoting Indian fashion internationally. Celebrities like Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone, and Anushka Sharma have been instrumental in bringing Indian designers into the limelight. These stars, who have both Bollywood and Hollywood credits to their names, have embraced Indian designs for major events like international film festivals, award shows, and magazine covers, which has significantly increased global visibility.

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Priyanka Chopra in a Red Bridal Lehanga by Sabyasachi

Priyanka Chopra’s wedding attire, for example, designed by Sabyasachi, made headlines around the world. The international attention on her wedding look gave Indian fashion designers unprecedented exposure. Her preference for Indian designers at global events also reinforced the idea that Indian fashion is not just for the Indian subcontinent but is a luxurious, sophisticated choice for international red carpets as well.

Indian Design Aesthetic: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

What sets Indian designers apart in the global fashion arena is their ability to seamlessly merge tradition with modernity. India’s rich heritage of textiles, handlooms, and embroidery has long been the source of inspiration for designers. Today, however, these techniques are blended with contemporary silhouettes, fabrics, and global influences, creating a unique fusion that appeals to global stars.

Indian designers are known for their intricate embroidery, embellishments, and use of luxurious fabrics like silk, brocade, and chiffon. These elements lend an air of opulence to their creations, making them highly sought after for high-profile events. At the same time, these designers are not afraid to incorporate modern elements like asymmetrical cuts, sleek silhouettes, and innovative draping techniques, which attract international clients seeking a balance of heritage and high fashion.

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Beyonce wearing Manish Malhotra

Manish Malhotra, for example, is known for his glamorous creations that appeal to both Bollywood stars and global celebrities alike. His fusion of traditional Indian bridal couture with Western elements has gained a loyal following, especially among Hollywood stars who desire the intricate detailing of Indian garments but with a contemporary twist. Celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Kate Hudson have turned to him for their couture looks, showcasing Indian fashion’s universal appeal.

A Global Desire for Handcrafted Luxury

One of the key factors driving global stars toward Indian designers is the increasing demand for handcrafted luxury. In a world dominated by mass-produced fashion, there is a growing preference for bespoke, artisanal pieces that tell a story. Indian designers, with their deep-rooted tradition of handcrafting and artisanal skills, offer garments that reflect a unique sense of craftsmanship and authenticity that is increasingly valued by international consumers.

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Brands like Anita Dongre, with her focus on sustainability and ethical fashion, have tapped into this desire for meaningful, handcrafted designs. Anita’s use of eco-friendly fabrics, combined with traditional Indian embroidery techniques, has made her a favorite among celebrities who prioritize both luxury and sustainability. This combination of conscious fashion and intricate craftsmanship makes Indian designers not only an aesthetic choice but a thoughtful one for globally-minded stars.

The Influence of Indian Culture on Global Fashion

Another reason why global stars are increasingly turning to Indian designers is the growing fascination with Indian culture and aesthetics. India’s diverse culture, colors, and art forms have long been a source of inspiration for fashion designers around the world. In 2025, this interest has deepened, with fashion houses incorporating elements of Indian artistry into their own collections. As a result, Indian designers are now seen as cultural ambassadors, blending the richness of India’s heritage with the contemporary language of fashion.

Indian designers are also exploring new ways to celebrate their culture in a global context. The resurgence of traditional Indian textiles like khadi, khallad, and ikat, often reimagined in innovative designs, has piqued the interest of international audiences. This blend of cultural heritage with a modern touch resonates strongly with global stars who are eager to incorporate these elements into their wardrobes, not only for the aesthetics but also as a celebration of diversity.

The Future of Indian Fashion in the Global Market

The future of Indian fashion looks promising, as more and more celebrities continue to embrace Indian designers for major events and red carpet appearances. Indian designers have established themselves as serious players in the global fashion industry, with their intricate designs and a deep understanding of craftsmanship becoming a mainstay in international fashion circles.

From Mumbai to Milan, Indian designers are redefining the way the world views fashion, one stitch at a time. Their unique blend of tradition and innovation has earned them the global spotlight, ensuring that Indian couture will continue to shine on international runways and red carpets for years to come.