21 Indian Fashion Designers You Should Know in 2023
Discover the most influential and innovative Indian fashion designers shaping global trends today.
21 Indian Fashion Designers You Should Know
Indian fashion is a vibrant, ever-evolving tapestry that blends tradition with modernity, craftsmanship with innovation. In recent years, Indian designers have not only dominated local runways but have also made a significant mark on the global fashion stage. Here, we spotlight 21 of the most creative and influential Indian fashion designers whose work you should know—whether you’re a fashion insider, a Bollywood enthusiast, or simply looking for fresh sartorial inspiration.
Sheena Sood of abacaxi
Sheena Sood is the creative force behind abacaxi, a label celebrated for its bold textures, playful silhouettes, and sustainable ethos. Inspired by nature, her collections feature tie-dye, quilted textures, mesh panels, balloon sleeves, and whimsical accessories like seashell hair clips and beaded face masks. Sood’s designs are a testament to the joy of experimentation, often mixing artisanal techniques with modern design.
Anita Dongre
A stalwart of Indian fashion, Anita Dongre has built an empire that bridges Indian heritage with international appeal. Her designs are beloved by celebrities worldwide—Kate Middleton famously wore one of her dresses in 2016, catapulting her into global fame. With a flagship store in New York City, Dongre’s clientele now includes Beyoncé, Sophie Turner, and Priyanka Chopra. Her aesthetic balances elegance with practicality, making her a favorite for both red carpets and everyday wear.
Suket Dhir of SUKETDHIR
Known for his sophisticated prints and tailoring, Suket Dhir brings a distinctly Indian sensibility to menswear and womenswear. His namesake label, SUKETDHIR, is acclaimed for its matching floral sets and standout pieces crafted from luxurious fabrics. Dhir’s accolades include winning the prestigious International Woolmark Prize in 2016—a distinction previously awarded to legends like Karl Lagerfeld and Yves Saint Laurent.
Sachin and Babi Ahluwalia of Sachin & Babi
This married design duo met at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and have since established their eponymous brand, Sachin & Babi. Their collections are marked by vibrant florals, bold hues, and meticulous embroidery. Their signature jewelry pieces are often as striking as their clothing, reflecting a modern, global Indian aesthetic.
Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla of Abu Jani-Sandeep Khosla
With over three decades in the industry, Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla are synonymous with Indian couture. Their eponymous label merges traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, producing pieces that are often described as wearable art. Their clientele includes both Indian and international celebrities, solidifying their reputation as masters of luxury fashion.
Ritu Kumar
A pioneer in Indian fashion, Ritu Kumar founded her label in 1969 and has since become a household name. Starting in a small village near Calcutta, she now oversees nearly 100 retail stores across India. Kumar is celebrated for her chic yet colorful designs, which have been worn by stars like Aishwarya Rai and Priyanka Chopra. Her collections often draw from India’s rich textile heritage.
What others are reading
Kanika Goyal of Kanika Goyal Label
For those drawn to streetwear and contemporary urban style, Kanika Goyal offers a cool, edgy alternative. Based in Delhi, Goyal has collaborated with Adidas Originals and was named to Forbes India’s 30 Under 30 list in 2019. Her brand is known for its bold prints, structured silhouettes, and youthful energy.
Saloni Lodha of Saloni
Saloni Lodha launched her label in 2011, inspired by the vibrant colors of her childhood memories—especially her grandmother’s sarees and the intricate details of Jain temples. Her collections feature mesmerizing textiles, vivid hues, and playful silhouettes, making her a favorite among fashion-forward women.
Neeta Lulla of House of Neeta Lulla
Equally renowned as a stylist and designer, Neeta Lulla has dressed countless Bollywood actresses for film and real life. Her House of Neeta Lulla offers bridal couture, cocktail dresses, and chic tunic-and-skirt sets, showcasing her versatility and deep understanding of Indian femininity.
Karishma Patel of KAPES Fine Jewelry
Born in India and raised in Tokyo, Karishma Patel brings a global perspective to her jewelry designs. Drawing inspiration from India, Japan, and her travels to Italy, Patel’s pieces at KAPES Fine Jewelry are bold, modern, and infused with multicultural influences.
Payal Singhal
Founded in 1999, Payal Singhal’s eponymous label epitomizes contemporary Indian fashion. Her designs are wearable, modern, and often extend beyond clothing into decor, weddings, and stationery. Singhal’s collections are a go-to for women seeking Indian-inspired pieces that fit effortlessly into a global lifestyle.
Roopa Pemmaraju
An advocate for slow fashion, Roopa Pemmaraju uses natural materials and carbon-neutral processes in her creations. Each garment supports skilled artisans and their families. Her designs are sold internationally, including at Anthropologie, and her bold quilted face masks have become signature pieces.
Sujan Doshi of LMJ
Born in New York but rooted in Indian craftsmanship, Sujan Doshi creates jewelry that blends global influences with traditional techniques. His LMJ pieces are handcrafted in India using naturally-sourced diamonds and gemstones, offering bold statement jewelry for the modern connoisseur.
Aishwarya Sharma
Aishwarya Sharma is an emerging designer known for her bridal and contemporary wear. Her collections often blend classic techniques with modern design, making her a rising star in India’s fashion scene.
Nitya Bajaj of NorBlack NorWhite
Nitya Bajaj co-founded NorBlack NorWhite, a brand that explores cultural identity through fashion. Her collections are a mix of traditional textiles and contemporary silhouettes, reflecting a young, global India.
Rahul Mishra
A regular on international runways, Rahul Mishra is celebrated for his intricate embroideries and sustainable practices. His designs are often inspired by nature and Indian folklore, making them both visually stunning and meaningful.
Manish Malhotra
No list of Indian designers is complete without Manish Malhotra. A favorite among Bollywood’s elite, Malhotra’s glamorous bridal and couture collections are synonymous with Indian luxury.
Gaurang Shah
Specializing in handloom sarees and traditional textiles, Gaurang Shah is a champion of India’s weaving heritage. His designs are intricate, colorful, and deeply rooted in tradition.
Tarun Tahiliani
Tarun Tahiliani is known for his fusion of Indian craftsmanship with Western tailoring. His bridal and couture collections are as popular in Mumbai as they are in Manhattan.
Sonali Gupta
Sonali Gupta is an emerging designer known for her elegant, understated collections. Her focus on quality fabrics and timeless design makes her brand a favorite among discerning women.
Anavila Misra
Anavila Misra is celebrated for reinventing the saree for the modern woman. Her linen sarees are lightweight, versatile, and designed for everyday wear, making her a pioneer in contemporary Indian fashion.
Faabiiana
Faabiiana is a newer label making waves with its playful, youthful designs. The brand’s use of bold colors and quirky details appeals to Gen Z and millennial shoppers looking for fun, modern Indian fashion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is the most famous Indian fashion designer?
Several designers are highly celebrated, but Manish Malhotra, Anita Dongre, and Tarun Tahiliani are especially prominent, both in India and internationally.
Which Indian designer has dressed international celebrities?
Anita Dongre, Sabyasachi Mukherjee, and Rahul Mishra have all dressed international celebrities. Dongre’s designs, in particular, have been worn by Kate Middleton, Beyoncé, and Sophie Turner.
What is unique about Indian fashion designers?
Indian designers are known for blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, often incorporating intricate embroidery, handloom textiles, and vibrant colors into modern silhouettes.
Who are the best Indian designers for bridal wear?
Manish Malhotra, Sabyasachi Mukherjee, and Abu Jani-Sandeep Khosla are considered the top choices for bridal couture in India.
Comparative Table: Signature Styles of Leading Indian Designers
| Designer | Signature Style | Celebrity Clientele |
|---|---|---|
| Anita Dongre | Elegant, wearable, Indian motifs | Kate Middleton, Beyoncé, Priyanka Chopra |
| Manish Malhotra | Glamorous, Bollywood-inspired, bridal | Deepika Padukone, Alia Bhatt |
| Abu Jani-Sandeep Khosla | Couture, traditional craftsmanship | Madhuri Dixit, Rekha |
| Rahul Mishra | Nature-inspired, sustainable, intricate embroidery | Zendaya, Gigi Hadid |
| Kanika Goyal | Streetwear, bold prints, urban | Collaborates with Adidas Originals |
Conclusion
Indian fashion designers are carving a distinctive niche on the global stage, blending heritage with innovation to create collections that are both timeless and fiercely modern. Whether through sustainable practices, bold prints, or couture craftsmanship, these 21 designers are redefining what it means to wear Indian fashion today. Their influence extends far beyond India’s borders, dressing international celebrities and inspiring fashion lovers worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- Indian designers are celebrated for their ability to merge traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics.
- Leading names like Anita Dongre, Manish Malhotra, and Abu Jani-Sandeep Khosla have achieved global recognition.
- Sustainability, craftsmanship, and vibrant design are hallmarks of modern Indian fashion.
- Newer designers are bringing fresh perspectives, appealing to younger, global audiences.
References
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/g34647685/indian-fashion-designers/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.in/life/features/story/nancy-tyagi-opens-up-to-cosmo-india-about-her-journey-and-dream-of-being-a-fashion-designer-to-the-stars-1035946-2024-06-25
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKgKtyxDfaE
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
