India is a country with a rich and diverse culture, history, and heritage. It is also a country with a vibrant and dynamic fashion industry, where talented designers are constantly creating new and innovative styles that reflect their identity and vision. The recent donning of sarees by Gigi Hadid and Zendaya has sparked significant interest and discussions within the industry, whether it’s Hollywood or Bollywood. Notably, these captivating sarees were crafted by India’s one of the most esteemed designers. This occurrence has amplified the spotlight and created a new buzz in Indian fashion, drawing heightened attention to both the exquisite outfits and the accomplished designers behind them.
In a world where attempts have often been made to diminish India’s status, there exists an industry that is consistently thriving and flourishing, carving out a significant presence and leaving a footprint on the global stage – the world of fashion designers and their industry. What sets them apart? What makes Indian fashion, fabrics, and craftsmanship so remarkable that it captures attention worldwide? In this blog, we will try to know which Indian designers are in the limelight, exploring the special qualities of Indian fashion that have not only gained national acclaim but have also left an indelible mark on the international fashion scene. Let’s unravel the stories of those Indian designers who have not just attracted attention but have also brought pride to the nation, both on a national and global scale.
· Rahul Mishra – Indeed a new sensation in the industry, Rahul Mishra, is a fashion luminary who has elevated Indian craftsmanship to unprecedented heights on the global stage. He was the first Indian designer to showcase at the Paris Haute Couture Week and also became the first Indian to win the prestigious International Woolmark Prize in Milan. Rahul Mishra champions slow fashion, with his designs meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans across India. His exquisite hand embroidery, inspired by marine life, Himalayan forests and architectural marvels, creates a breathtaking confluence of tradition and modernity. His work has recently garnered widespread attention, particularly for the custom saree he designed for Zendaya from the “Cosmos” collection 2023, which was a spectacular display of three-dimensional embroidery and fantastical motifs.
· Sabyasachi Mukherjee – A familiar name in the industry, one who designs intricate and articulate lehengas – Sabyasachi Mukherjee, is one of the most celebrated and influential fashion designers in India. He is known for his exquisite and elegant creations that blend traditional Indian fabrics, embroideries, and motifs with contemporary silhouettes and aesthetics. His designs have been worn by many Bollywood stars, such as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, and Priyanka Chopra, as well as international celebrities, such as Oprah Winfrey, Beyoncé, and Meghan Markle. He has also showcased his collections at prestigious fashion events, such as New York Fashion Week, Paris Fashion Week, and Milan Fashion Week.
· Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla – Remember Gigi’s saree during her first trip to India to attend an art and cultural event in Mumbai in 2023. It was created by these legends, which flaunted the traditional maximalism vibes, where Hadid wore an ivory and gold Chikankari saree. Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla are legends in the Indian fashion industry, renowned for their opulent, extravagant creations that redefine glamour. Their love for mirror work, intricate embroidery, and traditional chikankari infuses a majestic quality into their designs. They are best known for infusing Indian craftsmanship and textile heritage with European-tailored silhouettes. Their signature is to combine traditional aesthetics with modern design.
· Manish Malhotra – Known for his opulent designs and Bollywood collaborations, Manish Malhotra has become synonymous with Indian luxury fashion. His exquisite craftsmanship and ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements have earned him a prestigious position in the global fashion arena.
· Tarun Tahiliani – Tarun Tahiliani is one of the most respected and revered fashion designers in India, who has been in the industry since the 1980s. He is credited with being the first Indian designer to showcase his work at Milan Fashion Week and to open a multi-designer boutique in India, called Ensemble. He is also the founder of the Fashion Design Council of India, which aims to promote and nurture Indian fashion talent. His designs are known for their fusion of Indian and Western elements, with a focus on draping, layering, and embellishment. He has created stunning outfits for many celebrities, such as Shilpa Shetty, Sonam Kapoor, and Kareena Kapoor Khan, and has also designed costumes for films, such as Devdas, Jodhaa Akbar, and Bajirao Mastani.
