13 January 2025, Mumbai
Luxury ethnic wear brand Kalki has forayed into the Chennai market with a dedicated bridal and festive wear store, signaling a sharper push into South India’s high-spending wedding market. Industry estimates peg India’s wedding-related fashion spend at over Rs 4.7 lakh crore annually, with South India accounting for nearly 35 per cent of premium bridal purchases, driven by gold-heavy ceremonies and multi-day celebrations.
Localised design meets occasion-led consumption
The Chennai store showcases regionally adapted lehengas, sarees and fusion silhouettes, incorporating Kanjeevaram-inspired motifs, temple borders and jewel-toned palettes. Southern brides are design-conscious but deeply rooted in tradition. Our Chennai assortment reflects that balance, says Saurabh Gupta, Founder & CEO, Kalki. Average ticket sizes in the bridal category range between Rs 1.8 lakh and Rs 3.5 lakh, significantly higher than festive wear, according to company executives.
Omnichannel strategy strengthens store economics
Kalki’s brick-and-mortar expansion complements its strong digital base, which contributes over 55 per cent of total sales. Chennai will act as a hub for Tamil Nadu and Kerala, enabling faster fittings, customisation and last-mile fulfilment. The brand plans to open 10–12 additional stores over the next 18 months across Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Kochi, targeting a 30 per cent year-on-year revenue growth.
Competitive landscape and margin pressures
With brands such as Sabyasachi-calibre boutiques and regional players intensifying competition, Kalki is banking on controlled inventory cycles and in-house manufacturing to protect margins amid rising silk and zari costs.
An Indian luxury ethnic wear brand specialising in bridal, festive and occasion-led apparel for women and men, Kalki operates across major metros and international markets including the US and UK. The company follows an omnichannel model and targets sustained double-digit growth.
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