Indian fashion continues to captivate the global stage with its perfect fusion of tradition and innovation. As the industry makes bold strides towards sustainability, craftsmanship, and modern aesthetics, Indian designers are increasingly making waves internationally. With a renewed emphasis on conscious fashion, inclusivity, and cultural narratives, these designers are not only elevating Indian fashion but also shaping the global fashion discourse. We list some of the most promising Indian designers who are poised to leave their mark in 2025, showcasing the bright future of the Indian fashion industry.
Kanika Goyal
Kanika Goyal’s label, KGL, has gained recognition for its edgy, experimental approach to fashion. Her Spring/Summer 2024 collection, ‘Playfield’, debuted at London Fashion Week and drew inspiration from childhood memories, offering a playful mix of deconstructed silhouettes, bold hues, and nostalgic elements. The collection earned praise for its unique aesthetic that balances modernity and whimsy.
Looking ahead, Kanika plans to expand her brand’s presence while continuing her focus on sustainable materials. With her innovative designs and commitment to ethical fashion, 2025 is shaping up to be a defining year for Kanika Goyal.
HARRI
HARRI, a relatively new label, made its mark during its debut at London Fashion Week 2024. The brand’s maximalist womenswear collection turned heads with oversized silhouettes, futuristic elements, and an overall boundary-pushing aesthetic. The avant-garde approach of HARRI reflects its commitment to challenging conventions and encouraging emotional connection through fashion.
Whispers of collaborations with wearable tech and other disruptive innovations suggest that HARRI will be a key player in the fashion world’s future. In 2025, the brand is expected to continue pioneering new ideas, cementing its role as a leader in avant-garde fashion.
Priya Ahluwalia
Priya Ahluwalia’s eponymous label ‘Ahluwalia’ has garnered international attention for its sustainable and culturally rich designs. Her 2024 London Fashion Week collection blended African and Indian influences, incorporating bold florals, vivid colour palettes, and heritage-inspired silhouettes. Priya’s designs are not only visually striking but also make a statement about the importance of cultural representation and sustainability in the fashion industry.
In 2025, Priya is expected to release capsule collections that highlight multiculturalism and sustainability, solidifying her place as a thought leader in global fashion and continuing to set the standard for eco-conscious, culturally significant fashion.
Prakhar Rao’s Zero Tolerance
Zero Tolerance, an innovative Indian brand by Prakhar Rao, debuted its ‘KARM’ collection at London Fashion Week, showcasing exquisite khadi-based designs crafted by artisans from Lucknow. The collection, which featured tiger motifs and experimental silhouettes, combined Indian craftsmanship with avant-garde aesthetics to offer a fresh take on traditional materials. The brand’s ability to merge cultural heritage with cutting-edge design promises to make Zero Tolerance a standout name in 2025.
With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, Zero Tolerance is positioning itself to be a key player in the global fashion narrative, providing fresh and meaningful perspectives on Indian heritage in a modern context.
Aarti Vijay Gupta
Aarti Vijay Gupta’s label is known for its beautiful blend of traditional and contemporary elements. Her collection ‘Postcards From Kashmir’ showcased at London Fashion Week captured the breathtaking beauty of Kashmir through intricate prints, detailed embroidery, and fluid silhouettes. Gupta’s designs not only honor cultural heritage but also aim to narrate compelling stories through fashion.
With a passion for combining traditional artistry with modern design, Gupta’s creations promise to continue celebrating India’s vibrant heritage while appealing to the global fashion-conscious audience.
Kartik Kumra’s Kartik Research
Kartik Kumra’s label Kartik Research has redefined South Asian menswear, offering a distinctive fusion of casual sportswear, tailored elegance, and cultural motifs. His Spring/Summer 2025 collection, which made its debut at Paris Fashion Week in 2024, continued to push boundaries with its bold approach to menswear.
In 2025, Kartik Research is set to amplify regional representation on the global stage and highlight the diversity within South Asian cultures.
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The future of Indian fashion
The Indian fashion industry is at a pivotal moment, positioned at the intersection of tradition and modernity. Designers are embracing the challenge of fusing India’s rich heritage with global trends, while simultaneously prioritizing sustainability, ethical practices, and technological innovation.
According to a report by ‘India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), the Indian fashion and apparel market is expected to reach $59.3 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 8.7%. The growing demand for sustainable, ethically made, and culturally relevant designs is opening up new opportunities for Indian designers on the international stage. The rise of digital fashion platforms and e-commerce has allowed Indian brands to reach global audiences, while collaborations with international designers and retailers have bolstered their global presence.
Indian designers’ global impact
The impact of Indian designers on the global fashion scene is undeniable. Over the years, names like Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Manish Malhotra, and Anita Dongre have steadily expanded their presence abroad. As more Indian designers gain recognition at international fashion weeks in cities like Paris, New York, and London, they are playing an increasingly influential role in shaping global trends. According to ‘Fashion Network, Indian designers are expected to continue growing their global influence, particularly with the rise of eco-conscious fashion, which aligns well with India’s traditional craft and sustainable materials.
Not only are Indian designers gaining recognition, but they are also leading the charge in terms of innovation. India’s growing textile industry, rich in traditional craftsmanship, is beginning to merge seamlessly with modern design, producing pieces that combine timeless techniques with contemporary aesthetics. The emphasis on sustainability and the use of eco-friendly materials also reflects a shift towards conscious consumerism globally, further positioning Indian designers as leaders in the fashion industry.
Global recognition and future potential
Sabyasachi Mukherjee, a global icon, once wrote, “Indian craftsmanship is unparalleled, and the world is now recognizing its value.” As Indian designers continue to gain recognition on international runways, they are helping to redefine what global fashion looks like, introducing new narratives that embrace diversity, sustainability, and cultural representation.
Renowned designer Rahul Mishra in an interview with Fibre2Fashion, expressed optimism about the future of Indian fashion, “The future of Indian fashion is incredibly promising, both domestically and on the global stage.” This renewed focus on the talent will be a cornerstone of Indian fashion’s success in the coming years.
Anita Dongre, a trailblazer in the global fashion industry and a prominent Indian fashion designer, has consistently emphasized the importance of sustainability in the future of fashion. She believes that fashion should benefit not only the wearer but also the maker and the planet. In her words, “Fashion is not just about what’s next but also what’s good – for the maker, for the wearer and for the planet.”
With an unwavering commitment to ethical practices, technological innovation, and cultural representation, Indian fashion is set to dominate international runways. The year 2025 promises to be a landmark year for Indian designers, as they continue to shape the future of global fashion with their unique vision and unparalleled craftsmanship.
