The global fashion landscape is buzzing with Indian fashion designers – geniuses who have painted the global runway with desi dreams. Let's have a look at them.
Remember the time when ‘Indian designers’, as we understood it, meant those stunning outfits one could only wear at weddings and festivals? Now, however, India's fashion scenario has changed completely – a powerhouse crew of Indian talent isn't just dressing India anymore, they are taking over the global stage. From red carpets in Hollywood and New York to Parisian haute couture, these designers are making their mark in the fashion world. So, without further ado, let's have a look at six incredible Indian fashion designers who are taking the fashion world by storm by fusing the country's rich heritage with cool, contemporary chic.
Manish Malhotra is a popular name in India's fashionscape – he defined modern Bollywood couture for several decades. However, the name is not only limited to Hindi cinema now. Manish is a global phenomenon. From designing for international runways in Paris to styling elite celebrities like Naomi Campbell, Gigi Hadid, and even members of the Royal family like Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, Manish Malhotra has etched his name in the ranks of global fashion. What's special about him? Well, his designs feature intricate Indian craftsmanship like zardozi and silks with a universal and resplendent twist. Whether it's a lehenga or a gown, Manish’s designs scream luxury and ‘Indian’.
You know what's special about Sabyasachi? He doesn't just design clothes, but handcrafts dreams woven with nostalgia. Recognized for his intense connection with heritage Indian textiles, vintage motifs, and ritzy embroideries, Sabyasachi has given Indian weddings a new look, a new experience – turning them into global spectacles. His collaboration with H&M was a triumph worldwide. He showcased some of the most breathtaking designs at his flagship store in New York’s iconic Bergdorf Goodman ( a NY City based luxury brand) in 2024. Celebs like the Kardashians and Reese Witherspoon have worn his pieces, and they absolutely adore his work. Sabyasachi represents deep-rooted Indian heritage with confidence and modern delicacy, thus amassing massive international appeal. He makes our traditions look incredibly enticing on the global stage.
Anita Dongre is a name that people often associate with beauty and kindness in the world of fashion. Her pieces portray an unwavering commitment to the empowerment of rural artisans and sustainability. Her label, House of Anita Dongre is massively popular in India. Her global reach is monumental on the same scale. She's a regular at New York Fashion Week, exhibiting her exquisite contemporary lines like Global Desi and AND, in company with her signature bridal couture. Catherine, Princess of Wales (Kate Middleton) of the British Royal Family donned her label while she was in India. Her elegant and wearable designs feature stunning Indian weaves and prints with a twist that appeal to women globally. In simple words, Anita Dongre makes conscious sophistication look effortless.
Rahul Mishra is an artisanal wizard who made the grade at the Paris Haute Couture Week – the apex of global fashion. His designs feature meticulous, three-dimensional embroideries handcrafted by Indian artisans, blended with stories inspired by nature and philosophy. His collections are like wearable art – drawing great admiration from critics and buyers alike. Global fashion savants love collecting his pieces which display breathtaking craftsmanship. Rahul Mishra has designed for international celebs like Zendaya at the 2024 Met Gala. His designs prove that intricate Indian handwork should be right at the top of the luxury fashion hierarchy.
Gaurav Gupta's designs look like they are from the future. His expertise lies in reconceiving the Indian aesthetic with his sculptural, architectural, marvelous and outlandish designs. Some of his best pieces include fluid metallic fabrics, gravity defying drapes and forms that echo phenomenal modern art. Gaurav Gupta distinguished himself at the Paris Haute Couture Week with his avant-garde creations. International celebrities including Megan Thee Stallion, Doja Cat, and Cardi B rocked his breathtaking designs on red carpets like Cannes. Gupta defies convention by incorporating innovative, futuristic designs in Indian aesthetics.
Although Bibhu Mohapatra is based in New York, his Indian roots connected to his birthplace, Odhisha, profoundly shape his elegant and globally treasured aesthetics. He's a constant on the New York Fashion Week Calendar where he is praised for his opulent collection of fabrics, flawless tailoring, and graceful evening wears that often feature delicate Indian motifs and/or draping techniques. The most precious moment of his career? Dressing former US First Lady Michelle Obama, that too multiple times. His clientele includes international celebrities like Glenn Close and Lady Gaga. Mohapatra epitomizes Indian designs’ sensibility, sophistication and global relevance in the international luxury market.
These designers do not sample western trends – they proudly showcase India's mind-blowing craftsmanship, splendid textiles, unique drapes, vivid shades, and intense cultural narrative with a twist and blend that would resonate with the elegant global audience too. No wonder the world's wardrobe got a makeover – a lot more colourful, intricate and fabulous. Thanks to India. Keep rocking those runways!
