New Delhi —
For decades, India was relegated to fashion’s backyard, with its embroidery and garment export houses manufacturing everything from ready-to-wear to couture for the world’s biggest luxury brands. But recent years have seen a radical shift, as Indian designers are making their presence felt on the global stage. Rahul Mishra is a regular at Paris Haute Couture Week. Earlier this month, Manish Malhotra also debuted at the event, with Anna Wintour sitting in the front row. Gaurav Gupta’s designs are often worn at the Grammys and Cannes Film Festival red carpets. Sabyasachi — a bridal go-to in India — will show at New York Fashion Week in September, a city where the mononymous designer also has a flagship store.
“Consumers today follow designers, collections, and cultural moments from around the world. When they see Indian craftsmanship celebrated in Paris, on the Met Gala carpet, or by international artists, it creates a sense of pride and strengthens their connection with the brand,” said Malhotra, who has not only dressed Bollywood superstars but also Hollywood A-listers, such as Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez.
But the business reality behind these global ambitions is that bridal couture remains the financial backbone for most Indian brands. “It gives us a strong foundation to continue investing in our ateliers, our artisans, and the preservation of craftsmanship,” Malhotra added.
