The International Fashion Design Council (IFDC) has joined forces with Global India Couture Week (GICW) for a highly anticipated runway show in Jaipur from February 10 to 11. In a recent Jaipur launch event, the dates were unveiled alongside a model audition, signaling an exciting lineup of Indian brands.

GICW's focus for the upcoming season is to unite established brands with emerging designers, creating a platform for showcasing diverse Indian design talent. The model audition drew over 50 participants from cities like Jaipur, Gurugram, Delhi, Mumbai, and Pune, offering a valuable opportunity for aspiring models to elevate their fashion careers.

With India's commitment to sustainable fashion, the event aims to reach unprecedented heights, building on the success of GICW's fourth season, which featured designer Neeta Lulla and actor Palak Tiwari as the showstopper.

09 January 2024, Mumbai

WHY India

2023 witnessed a captivating fashion revolution in India. Like a vibrant runway show, global brands strutted into the market, leaving a trail of designer handbags and stylish threads.

Video Insights

From luxury giants like Balenciaga under the Reliance umbrella to e-commerce favorites like BoohooMAN on Myntra, international names across segments flocked to this booming market. But what fueled this fashion invasion, and who are the next stars likely to grace the Indian stage in 2024?

Reliance Takes the Spotlight

Reliance Industries, the retail behemoth, orchestrated a breathtaking performance. Its subsidiary, Reliance Brands Ltd. (RBL), became the grand couturier, bringing in coveted luxury brands like Sandro, Maje, Valentino, and Balenciaga. These designer titans found a new stage in India, further solidifying RBL's position as a fashion-forward force.

"India's rising disposable income and evolving consumer preferences present a unique opportunity for luxury brands," stated Darshan Mehta, CEO and MD of RBL, in one of his reported interviews, highlighting the strategic logic behind his acquisitions.

E-commerce Catwalks onto the Scene

But the runway wasn't solely dominated by brick-and-mortar giants. E-commerce platforms like Myntra played a starring role, onboarding names like BoohooMAN, Anne Klein, NEXT, Oasis, and Parfois. This diverse bunch catered to a range of styles and budgets, making Myntra an international fashion hotspot for Indian shoppers.

"We are constantly working to expand our brand portfolio and offer curated experiences to our diverse customer base," explained Amar Nagaram, CEO of Myntra, emphasizing the platform's commitment to providing global options.

Beyond E-commerce and Reliance: More Players Join the Party

The fashion fiesta wasn't limited to these two titans. Birkenstock, the iconic sandal brand, announced plans to open 10 franchisee outlets through Varun Bagadiya, Director of Element Retail, bringing its comfort and style to a wider audience.

Social commerce also stepped onto the catwalk. Trell, a leading platform, partnered with Bestseller India to introduce European brands Jack & Jones, Vero Moda, and Only to its influencer network. This strategic move leveraged the power of social media to connect these brands with millions of fashion-conscious consumers.

What fueling this fashion invasion?

Several factors fueled this global fashion invasion. India's rapidly growing middle class, rising disposable income, and increasing internet penetration created a lucrative market for international brands.

Enablers

Additionally, the government's efforts to simplify FDI norms and foster a startup-friendly environment further strengthened India's appeal as a fashion destination.

"India's young and aspirational population, combined with its strong economic growth, makes it a highly attractive market for global brands," commented Abhishek Agarwal, Managing Director of Alchemy Capital, a private equity firm focused on consumer brands.

Who's Next on the Runway? Brands to Watch in 2024

With its young and evolving market, India promises to attract even more international names in 2024. Brands like Roberto Cavalli, Dunhill, Armani Caffe, and Foot Locker are reportedly in talks to enter the Indian market, potentially through Reliance and other major players.

Additionally, European and Turkish brands like Kiabi, Mavi, Damat, and Dufy are eyeing expansion into India.

The Future of the Indian Fashion Scene

This influx of global brands promises to have a lasting impact on the Indian fashion landscape. It will lead to increased competition, a wider variety of styles, and improved product quality. Additionally, it will expose Indian consumers to international trends and sensibilities, refining their tastes and preferences.

Quotes

"The Indian fashion market is poised for further growth and diversification," predicted Ritu Bansal, Founder and CEO of Ritu Kumar, a leading Indian fashion designer. "We can expect to see a unique blend of global trends and Indian sensibilities emerge in the coming years."

Narrative

As the Indian fashion story continues to unfold, one thing is certain: the future promises to be bold, stylish, and full of surprises.

This market, once a spectator on the global fashion stage, is now taking center stage, captivating audiences with its own vibrant narrative.

Latest Textile Events

Business to customer fashion fair Fashionista plans to organise a sustainable fashion fair from January 10 to 11, 2024 in Juhu, Mumbai.

To be held at the Valecha Hall, the event will promote eco-friendly apparel and lifestyle labels. It will showcase product categories such as women’s traditional, ethnic and fusion wear, jewelry, fashion accessories, gift items, home décor and lifestyle goods. Brands from Maharashtra will be in focus at the event

A winter festive shopping fair was held by Fashionista from December 21-22 in Belgaum, Karnataka, and from December 23-24 in Kohlapur. Both the fairs featured a wide range of traditional wear for the winter wedding season alongwith handcrafits and other fashion goods.

Launched in 2008, Fashionista Fashion and Lifestyle Exhibition held multi-brand fairs across India in locations including Jabalpur, Nagpur, Nashik, Bilaspur, Amravati, Kanpur, Mumbai, Salem, Lucknow, Raipur, and Hubli , etc. The events connect upcoming brands with customers across smaller cities.

03 January 2024, Mumbai

Rewind 2023

As the Indian fashion scene undergoes a dynamic transformation, established brands and retailers have grappled with shifting trends and evolving consumer preferences.

2023 saw some familiar names rise to the top, while others faced the need for strategic adaptation. Let's explore the stories behind the industry's biggest winners and those navigating choppy waters.

Winners: Riding the Rising Tide

• Athleisure All-Stars: Brands like Zivame and Nykaa Fashion embraced the post-pandemic focus on comfort and active lifestyles. Their diverse athleisure offerings, catering to a wide range of budgets and styles, resonated with consumers seeking versatility and ease.
• Sustainability Champions: With environmental consciousness taking center stage, brands like FabIndia witnessed a surge in popularity. Their commitment to ethical production, natural materials, and upcycled creations struck a chord with consumers seeking mindful fashion choices.
• Direct-to-Consumer Dynamos: Cutting out the middlemen and offering personalized experiences, homegrown DTC brands like The Label Life and Studiofit carved a niche for themselves. Their data-driven approach and social media savvy catered perfectly to Gen-Z preferences.
• Value-Driven Victors: Brands like Max Fashion and Ajio capitalized on the ongoing focus on affordability and value. Their wide range of styles at accessible price points proved attractive to budget-conscious consumers, especially in a post-pandemic economy.

Facing the Fashion Crossroads:

• Formalwear Fade: Brands heavily reliant on formal wear, like Raymond and Park Avenue, faced challenges as work-from-home became the norm and social gatherings reduced. Adapting to changing demands and diversifying their offerings will be crucial for their future success.
• Fast Fashion Fatigue: Concerns about environmental impact and overconsumption led to a decline in popularity for brands associated with quick trends and mass production, like Shoppers Stop and Globus.
• Brick-and-Mortar Blues: The continued shift towards online shopping posed challenges for traditional retailers like W for Woman and Meena Bazaar. Building a robust online presence and offering seamless omnichannel experiences will be essential to stay competitive.

Charting the course for 2024:

As India's fashion industry looks ahead to 2024, several key trends are likely to shape the landscape:

• Sustainability Surge: Expect stricter regulations, increased transparency, and innovative materials as sustainability becomes a non-negotiable factor. Brands that prioritize eco-friendly practices will be well-positioned for success.
• Omnichannel Harmony: The seamless blending of online and offline experiences will be crucial, with brands leveraging the strengths of each platform. Building a strong digital presence while maintaining a welcoming physical store experience will be key.
• Personalization Push: Data-driven customization and targeted marketing will take center stage as brands strive to create unique experiences for individual customers. Understanding consumer preferences and offering tailored solutions will be essential.
• Community Connection: Building strong communities around shared values and ethical practices will give brands a competitive edge. Engaging with customers on a deeper level will foster loyalty and brand advocacy.

Navigating these shifting trends will be the deciding factor for established brands and retailers in 2024. Those who adapt to changing consumer preferences, embrace sustainability, and offer personalized experiences are the ones who will weather the winds of change and emerge as leaders in India's ever-evolving fashion scene.

Latest Textile Events

Multi-brand luxury children’s wear retailer Les Petits has launched its new label-the Lapin House in India. Launched across the brand’s boutiques in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad, the label also retails on its e-commerce store. 

Founded in Greece in 1977, Lapin House offers premium children’s wear in cute yet classic designs. The brand’s latest collection of pink, green, red, and maroon ensembles, promises to be both durable and fashion forward at the same time. The collection will be available exclusively with Les Petits in time for the winter festive season.  

According to Swati Saraf, President, Les Peitis, the brand Lapin House exudes elegance by offering a complete package to the kid’s wear fashion in India. It gives a playful to the overall demeanor of kids.

Aiming to make global children’s wear lines available in the Indian markets, Les Petits retails a range of international luxury children’s wear brands including Versace, Moschino, Dolce & Gabbana, and Fendi, etc. The business has launched a number of new labels in the country.

Multi-brand luxury Indian fashion retailer Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop organised a ‘meet the designer’ event for men’s and women’s occasion wear brand DiyaRajvvir at its Hyderabad boutique on January 11. The event also launched the brand’s latest designs in the city. 

Run by designer duo Diya and Rajvir, DiyaRajvvir sells menswear and womenswear from its direct to customer website as well as on multi-brand platforms. Established in 2015, the brand plans to infuse western sensibilities into traditional Indian garments such as lehengas and shararas. 

Launched by designer and entrepreneur Pernia Quereshi, Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop holds regular events at its stores across India’s metros to offer engaging experiences for shoppers and drive footfall offline. The retail store organises events like designer meet and greets as well as themed shopping fairs. Owned by Purple Style Labs, the business is currently being operated by entrepreneur Abhishek Agarwal.

28 December 2023, Mumbai

Rewind 2023

As 2023 draws to a close, the Indian womenswear scene hums with a vibrant energy, a tapestry woven with threads of comfort, conscious consumerism, and a fierce sense of individuality.

Gone are the days of cookie-cutter trends; the modern Indian woman is the author of her own style story, and brands are scrambling to keep up. Let's unravel the key threads that define this fascinating shift:

Comfort Takes Center Stage

The pandemic's lingering influence saw loungewear and athleisure take center stage. Joggers, sweatshirts, and flowy dresses became wardrobe staples, not just for workouts but for everyday errands and casual outings. E-commerce giant Nykaa Fashion and leading brands in the sector capitalized on this trend, offering stylish yet comfortable options for women on the go.

Beyond Borders, Beyond Binaries

Globalization and a growing acceptance of gender fluidity fueled a love for fusion fashion. Silhouettes transcended borders, with kimono sleeves adorning sarees and crop tops paired with lehengas.

Brands like Anita Dongre and Sabyasachi led the charge, offering contemporary interpretations of traditional garments that broke the shackles of convention.

Sustainability Steals the Spotlight

The Indian woman is increasingly conscious of the environmental and social impact of her choices.

Brands like Fabindia and others saw a surge in popularity due to their commitment to organic materials, fair labor practices, and upcycled designs. Eco-conscious consumers were no longer willing to compromise style for sustainability.

The Rise of the Digital Diva

Technology played a starring role in the form of personalized online styling platforms and social media influencers. Brands like Myntra and Ajio leveraged AI and virtual try-on features to provide a seamless online shopping experience. Fashion influencers are setting the trends and inspiring millions with their curated looks.

A Celebration of Regional Riches

Just as with menswear, womenswear embraced the vibrant tapestry of Indian handlooms and crafts. Bandhani dupattas from Kutch, silk sarees from Banaras, and Kalamkari prints from Andhra Pradesh found their way into contemporary wardrobes. Ethnic brands Biba and Jaypore played a crucial role in reinterpreting these age-old textiles for the modern woman.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the positive trends, the industry grappled with headwinds. Inflation and supply chain disruptions impacted both manufacturers and retailers. The ever-evolving online landscape, with its fierce competition and demanding customer base, kept brands on their toes.

Moving ahead

But as we step into 2024, the Indian womenswear scene is brimming with potential. Brands that can cater to the comfort-conscious, trend-setting, and socially conscious woman will be the ones writing the next chapter of success.

They must embrace technology, celebrate diversity, and weave stories that resonate with the aspirations of the modern Indian woman, who is no longer a passive observer but an active participant in shaping her own style of narrative.

Latest Textile Events

Increasing cash flow and focus on franchise-based expansion will help Arvind Fashions, become a zero-debt company in the next two years, says Kulin Lalbhai, Vice Chairman.

Owner of brands such as Arrow, Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein, Arvind Fashion has been registering higher cash flow as it continues to focus on a franchise-based expansion.

Rationalising its brand portfolio, Arvind Fashions has reduced the number of brands it owns to five from over 20. The company currently has a debt of Rs 300 crore. Three years ago, it embarked on a full-blown strategy to create large iconic brands in order to get operational efficiencies and profitability by scaling them up.

The portfolio restricting helped the company generate high returns on the capital employee and increase its cash flow, adds Lalbhai.

The company plans to increase the size of its stores for each of the brands by 25 per cent, adds Shailesh Chaturvedi, Managing Director, and CEO. This will help it expand its product range and introduce a new large retail format to house all its brands under one roof.

Another of the company’s aims is to grow sales by 12-15 per cent annually and improve EBITDA by 100 basis points every fiscal year, adds Chaturvedi.

The company is also launching a new store format over 3,000-4,000 sq ft in Bengaluru which will house all five brands under a single roof. This part, it plans to open around 200 EBOs every year through the franchise route.

The company recorded a 45 per cent Y-o-Y growth in revenues to Rs 4,421 in FY23 while net profit surged to Rs 88 crore.