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Bengaluru emerges a booming market for luxury brands in India

Riding the wave of India's rising luxury market, Bengaluru, India's Silicon Valley, is attracting a growing number of international luxury brands. With its affluent population, driven by tech professionals and entrepreneurs, and established families with wealth, the city offers a unique and promising market.
What makes Bengaluru attractive
One major draw is it high-spending demographics. Bengaluru is home to over 10 million people it is the third most populous city in India. Bengaluru boasts of a large population of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), with over 12,600 millionaires 50 centi-millionaires, eight billionaires and a growing presence of tech professionals with high disposable incomes. As designer Aviva Bidapa says, "Louis Vuitton bags are more common [here] than grocery bags. Everyone has them." Little wonder wy Louis Vutoon established a store in UB City 15 years ago, reflecting the city's growing demand for luxury brands. Beside techies, the city is home to "old money" families, Kannada film industry stars, and sports personalities who contribute to the luxury market.
While historically known for its conservative approach to luxury, Bengaluru is witnessing a shift towards international brands and streetwear, with sneakers gaining popularity. Malls like UB City and Phoenix Mall of Asia, The Collective offer diverse brands and experiences alongside online platforms like Tata Cliq. These are the preferred channels for international brands. Moreover, high import duties make luxury goods in India more expensive compared to other markets, but personalized service and curated experiences can attract local buyers.
While international brands like Louis Vuitton and Ferragamo are present, the city also boasts a thriving local luxury scene with designers like Shantanu & Nikhil have store there, then there is Aviva swimwear, founded by Aviva Bidapa to cater to Bengaluru's growing luxury scene. Angadi Heritage, the opulent store selling silk saris and contemporary Indian designer brands. Sneaker Stories India, an Instagram account promoting the sneakerhead community in Bengaluru. Ensemble the multi-brand Indian designer store is located in the popular Jayanagar neighborhood.
Indeed Bengaluru's unique blend of tech-driven wealth, diverse consumer cohorts, and evolving preferences make it a promising market for international luxury brands. By understanding the local landscape, adapting their approach, and offering personalized experiences, brands can tap into this thriving market and contribute to its continued growth.

Bengaluru emerges a booming market for luxury brands in India

Swedish brand Gaston Luga debuts in India

Swedish lifestyle and accessories brand Gaston Luga has debuted in the Indian market with an aim to introduce its pragmatic designs to local shoppers. The brand has joined forces with several multi-brand online platforms to expand its reach.
Stating its commitment to merging Scandinavian elegance with functional design, Gaston Luga aims to revolutionise the Indian accessory scene, as reported by India Retailing. Known for its expertise in bringing global lifestyle labels to Indian consumers, Maison ID8 Brands,is facilitating Gaston Luga's entry into India, as per Indian Retailer Bureau.
Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Gaston Luga specialiSes in crafting men's and women's bags tailored for everyday utility. Their product range spans from compact shoulder bags to backpacks, including specialised camera bags equipped with various compartments. The brand primarily operates through its global direct-to-consumer e-commerce platform.
In its Indian debut, Gaston Luga offers minimalist yet practical accessories on prominent multi-brand platforms such as Tata Cliq, The White Crow, and Ajio Luxe, catering to customers across the nation. The company's reach extends beyond India, with dedicated e-commerce platforms serving countries like the UK, US, and Thailand.
Highlighting its commitment to sustainability, Gaston Luga recently collaborated with renowned camera brand Nikon to unveil a camera bag line. Notably, the brand employs PETA-approved waterproof vegan leather in its products, as stated on its website.

Swedish brand Gaston Luga debuts in India

Trent Q3 FY24 results reported

Painting a picture of robust growth Trent's Q3 FY24 net profit soared by 140 per cent to Rs 370.64 crore. The company’s revenues from operations surged by 50.5 per cent to Rs 3,466.62 crore. Its total expenses rose by 41.64 per cent to Rs 3,101.44 crore during the quarter.

Overall, operating revenues surged to 13 per cent as against 8.5 per cent for Q3 FY23.
In Q3 FY24, Trent’s fashion concepts registered a LFL growth of over 10 per cent vis-a-vis Q3 FY23.

Nuanced picture

Its emerging categories, including beauty and personal care, innerwear and footwear, contributed to over 19 per cent of its standalone revenue of Rs 3,521 crore
During the quarter, Trent also added five Westside and 50 Zudio stores across 36 cities, including 13 new cities.

As of December 31, 2023, Trent’s portfolio included 227 Westside, 460 Zudio and 28 stores across other lifestyle concepts.

The retailer plans to continue expanding its store presence and deepen its reach in new cities. It also plans to continue focusing on online operations and emerging categories like beauty and personal care.

TrentLtd

Pottery Barn opens new EBO in Mumbai

Making its India foray, US-based homeware brand, Pottery Barn has opened an exclusive brand outlet in Mumbai to offer a curated selection of furniture, accessories, and lifestyle products.

Located in the Jio World Plaza shopping mall in Bandra Kurla Complex, the store has been opened in partnership with Reliance Brands, It features a cream and natural wood color palette complemented by soft lighting. From fluffy towels to luxurious quilts, the store caters to every aspect of customers’ home comfort needs. It offers home textiles, including plush throws, cozy bedding, stylish table linens, and decorative cushions.

Beyond textiles, Pottery Barn offers handcrafted furniture pieces and statement decor including a unique coffee table or a captivating artwork. The store follows the November 2023 opening of India's first Pottery Barn Kids store, also located in Jio World Plaza. The Kids' store offers a range of textile products and interactive services like customisation.

Since its 1999 launch in the US, Pottery Barn has established itself as a leading homeware brand. In India, the brand is accessible through its online store and brick-and-mortar outlets in Mumbai and New Delhi.

Pottery Barn opens new EBO in Mumbai

The Amethyst Room to showcase womenwear brand Aish in Chennai

A prestigious multi-brand luxury Indian fashion boutique, The Amethyst Room is set to host a showcase featuring the renowned womenswear brand Aish from February 17-23, 2023 in RA Puram, Chennai. This event aims to unveil Aish's unique take on fusion style, tailored for everyday wear.
During the showcase, Aish will offer a curated selection of its latest designs, popular pieces, as well as exclusive one-of-a-kind garments. The collection will spotlight Aish's signature use of premium fabrics like cotton, silk, and linen, coupled with their trademark loose and relaxed silhouettes. Among the showcased items will be loose layers, elegant kaftans, versatile wrap tops, chic a-line skirts, and stylish shirt dresses. Aish's fusion prints, including vibrant ginghams, eye-catching neon pinstripes, artistic florals, and abstract patterns, will also take center stage.
The Amethyst Room has a rich history of presenting designer showcases, aimed at introducing leading labels to Chennai's discerning fashion enthusiasts. In recent times, the boutique has organised successful pop-up events featuring esteemed brands such as Shades of India for handloom aficionados and Nikasha for the launch of its 'Nikasha Goa' resort wear line in November 2023.
Originating in Kolkata, Aish specialises in crafting exquisite resort wear for women. Founded by designer Nupur Goenka, Aish's creations are available both online and at select multi-brand outlets like Le Mill, Aloja, and Ajio Luxe. Their product range includes elegantly crafted kaftans, dresses, and separates, all meticulously fashioned from natural fabrics.

The Amethyst Room to showcase womenwear brand Aish in Chennai

Aza Fashions opens new luxury store in Ahmedabad

Marking a significant expansion of its luxury retail footprint, India’s multi-designer retailer Aza Fashions has unveiled a stunning new store in Ahmedabad.

Sprawling over 10,000 sq ft, the store boasts an expansive selection of women's apparel, menswear, accessories, and fashion jewelry. From traditional Indian couture to contemporary fusion wear, the meticulously curated collection caters to diverse tastes and occasions.

Dr Alka Nishar, Founder & Chairperson, Aza Fashions, says, the store blends craftsmanship with elegance to offer timeless elegance and cutting-edge style.
It also celebrates skill and creativity, adds Devangi Parekh, Managing Director.

The store’s luxurious ambiance and personalised service promise an unforgettable shopping experience. It offers garments from renowned designers like Amit Aggarwal, Sabyasachi, Anushree Reddy, etc.

Launched in 2025, Aza Fashions’ e-commerce platform, Azafashions.com, offers the convenience of shopping for over 1,000 Indian designers from anywhere in the world.

Aza Fashions opens new luxury store in Ahmedabad

CHARLES & KEITH Unveils New Concept Store in Gurgaon

01 February 2024, Mumbai

CHARLES & KEITH Unveils New Concept Store in Gurgaon, India

The go-to label for accessible designs that are always on the cutting edge of fashion, CHARLES & KEITH, unveiled its new concept store on January 10, 2024, at the popular Ambience Mall in Gurgaon, India.

Following an extensive refurbishment, the redesigned space promises to redefine the shopping experience for customers, offering a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and innovative design elements.

Minimalism with a Soft Touch

Retaining the clean and minimal color scheme that is the hallmark of CHARLES & KEITH's brand aesthetics, the new concept store is given a softer touch with gradual curves and cleaner lines flowing throughout.

Designed with the aim of being a space that allows customers to slow down and enjoy the process of browsing through the products, the new store is carved to provide a respite from the noise of the outside world, taking on a stripped-back approach to let the beauty of the raw materials used to come through.

Latest Textile Events

CHARLES&KEITH

True Religion teams up with Orly for a new footwear collection

Denim brand True Religion is stepping into the world of shoes in partnership with New York footwear powerhouse Orly Corporation.
Both True Religion and Orly are planning to launch full-fledged footwear collection for men, women, and kids in Fall 2024. From casual kicks to statement styles, the collection will cater to every taste and budget, with prices ranging from $55 to $200.
The new collection will be available at all True Religion stores and online. Major retailers across the US and Canada will also retail this new collection.
Michael Buckley, CEO, True Religion says, this collaboration allows the brand to offer complete head-to-toe looks, solidifying True Religion as a true lifestyle brand.
An expert in footwear, socks, and housewares, Orly blends comfort and style. The brand’s extensive North American presence and dedicated design teams will make the True Religion collection both trendy and high-quality, adds Ruby Antebi, Head- Strategy and Business Development, Orly. True Religion's iconic style combined with Orly’s passion for innovation will redefine footwear for everyone. This collaboration will be a game-changer for the fashion industry, making elite style accessible to everyone, she adds further.

True Religion teams up with Orly for a new footwear collection

Sanfe, IIT Delhi Startup Revolutionizes Body Care

09 February 2024, Mumbai

Sanfe, India's largest online femcare brand, launches Glycoclear Technology, a revolutionary skincare innovation addressing complex body care issues faced by Indian women.

Key highlights:

Glycoclear Technology: A trademarked blend of AHAs and BHAs for exfoliation, faster absorption, and smoother skin.

    • Instalite Detan Body Cream: Detans in 10 minutes.
    • Spotlight Body Lightening Cream: Targets dark underarms, neck, joints, and skinfolds.
    • Clear & Confident Body Wash and Body Lotion: For body acne, tan, bumps, and dark spots.
    • Underarm Lightening Roll On: Balances pH for long-lasting freshness.
    • Reveal No More Bumps Body Scrub: Addresses keratosis pilaris.
      • Focus on Indian women's needs: Addresses concerns like tanned skin, dark underarms, and keratosis pilaris.
      • 18 dermatologist-approved products: Tailored solutions for various body concerns.
      • Rapid growth: Annual revenue run rate of Rs 100 crore and target of 500% growth in 3 years.
      • Financial commitment: 5% of turnover allocated to research and innovation.
      • Funding: Raised USD 3.93 million, with a target of achieving INR 500 crore in revenue.

      Quotes:

      • Archit Agarwal, Co-Founder, Sanfe: "Our mission is to empower women with more than just products. With Glycoclear, we address a broader spectrum of their body needs."
      • Harry Sehrawat, Co-Founder, Sanfe: "Glycoclear is about breaking free from body concerns and societal norms. Each product instills confidence and liberation."
      • Mr. Preeti Ranjan Panda, Dean of Corporate Affairs Relations, IIT Delhi: "This transformative blend is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and fostering impactful innovation."

      Products:

      Sanfe is poised to revolutionize the Indian beauty and wellness sector with its commitment to innovation and focus on women's empowerment.

Latest Textile Events

Sanfe

Garment Mantra Lifestyle bags Rs 14 crore apparel export order

Fashion retailer Garment Mantra Lifestyle has received an export order of Rs 14 crore ($1.7 million) for its apparel products to be supplied over the next 3 quarters.

The export order is the company’s first from an export market and expects similar order from international markets in the future.

Prem Aggarwal, Managing Director, Garment Mantra Lifestyle, says, the order reflects the company’s efforts and the dedication of its management, designers, and sales team.

A wholesale unit, Garment Mantra Lifestyle Is engaged in the business of garment manufacturing and selling premium quality garments. The company has the required knowledge and resources to supply wholesalers with quality products that represent great value for money.

Garment Mantra Lifestyle bags Rs 14 crore apparel export order

Manyavar to make South India debut with Vivaham

Indian men's festive-wear brand Manyavar has chosen the auspicious wedding season to mark its debut in South India. With the launch of "Vivaham," a collection of traditional South Indian attires like Panchakacham and Veshti, Manyavar is ready to redefine festive fashion in the region.

To celebrate this grand occasion, Manyavar has partnered with GroupM OOH Solutions to unveil a captivating Out-of-Home campaign featuring superstar Ram Charan as the brand ambassador. The campaign, aptly titled #TaiyaarHokarAiye ("Get ready"), features larger-than-life cutouts of Ram Charan adorned in Manyavar's elegant garments, reaching a staggering 70 feet at key locations across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Additionally, in Hyderabad, strategically placed bridge and pillar panels create a mesmerizing effect for commuters.

This launch signifies a major milestone for Manyavar, a brand known for its masterful blend of tradition and innovation in Indian festive wear. The "Vivaham" collection showcases the brand's commitment to embracing the rich South Indian
heritage, aligning perfectly with its values of inclusivity and diversity.

Vedant Modi, Chief Revenue Officer, Vedant Fashions, believes the campaign beautifully captures the essence of both the Vivaham collection and Ram Charan's magnetic personality. He adds that Ram Charan's confident and compassionate persona resonates perfectly with the contemporary Indian man, making him the ideal choice for this association.

Manyavar to make South India debut with Vivaham

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