- Preet Kaur
- February 28, 2024
- 10:24 am
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Meet the Stylish Game-Changers: India's Best Fashion Designers
Unveiling India’s Fashion Royalty: A curated list of the most victorious, prevalent, and visionary designers who’ve woven their magic across the world.
From industry veterans like Ritu Kumar, who has been shaping Indian fashion since 1969, to young trailblazers like Masaba Gupta, India is home to exceptional designers who beautifully blend tradition with modern aesthetics.
Fashion design isn’t just about what you wear – it’s also about creating those masterpieces too. Designers craft outfits that keep up with current trends and styles, and nowadays, Indian fashion gurus are making their mark on the national stage. Many have even snagged prestigious awards at renowned international fashion events.
So, settle in and get ready for a fascinating ride as we discuss in this captivating and informative blog post 20 crème de la crème of Indian Fashion who continue to dominate the Indian fashion scene!!
Manish Malhotra
When talking about the world of fashion, one can’t help but think of Manish Malhotra, a well-known designer for Bollywood celebrities. Born on September 30th, 1976, in Delhi, India, Manish is the son of the esteemed Mr. Mohan Malhotra, a great fashion designer himself. Manish started his journey as a model and appeared in ads for top companies.
Eventually, Manish’s deep-rooted passion for movies, clothes, and sketching led him to pursue a career in fashion design. Over the past 27 years, he has worked tirelessly in the industry and has made a significant impact on Indian fashion.
With numerous accomplishments under his belt—like the British Designer of the Year Award, International Designer of the Year Award, and Lux Style Awards—it’s no surprise that he’s known as the “King of Couture.” Famous for designing exquisite lehengas and bridal trousseau.
Every woman dreams of wearing one of his stunning creations!
- Shivraj Heights, Corner of 14th Road & Linking Road, Khar West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400052
- +91 98339 46835
- info@manishmalhotra.in
- Monday to Saturday 11 am to 7 pm, Sunday Closed
- 4.1 google reviews
Sabyasachi Mukherjee
Sabyasachi Mukherji, born on January 6th, 1963, in Kolkata, India, is known as one of the top designers in India right now; he’s famous for his remarkable creations. Notably, his lehengas have captured the hearts of brides all over the world, with many of them placing international orders.
Even Bollywood brides like Deepika Padukone, Anushka Sharma, Priyanka Chopra, Bipasha Basu, and Soha Ali Khan have chosen to wear Sabyasachi’s designs.
Honored as India’s Most Outstanding Young Designer by Femina British Council, he’s also the only designer to be invited to showcase his collection at Milan Fashion Week. Over the years, Mukherjee has crafted a brand that has proven vital in the face of economic, social, and political hurdles.
- Kutub Serai No 6-8, One Style Mile, Kalka Das Marg, Near Qutub Minar, Mehrauli, New Delhi, Delhi 110030
- +91 98103 11155
- customerservice@sabyasachi.com
- Monday to Sunday 11 am to 7 pm
- 4.3 google reviews
Neeta Lulla
Neeta Lulla, an Indian fashion stylist and costume designer, has worked with over 300 film stars. With a career that began in 1985, Neeta specializes in bridal wear and has made a significant impact on the industry. She’s highly regarded for her exquisite designs in films such as Khuda Gawah and Devdas.
Notably, she crafted both Aishwarya Rai’s pearl-studded lehenga for her mehendi event and her attire for the South Indian Wedding. Some of the top Bollywood actresses like Shilpa Shetty, Aishwarya Rai, Sridevi, Juhi Chawla, Salma Azad, and Isha Koppikar have proudly worn Neeta Lulla’s creations.
Her outstanding work has earned her prestigious awards like the National Film Award, the IIFA Best Costume Design Award, and the Bollywood Movie Award for Best Costume Design. Beyond film costumes, Neeta is also renowned for her mastery of the Paithani style.
- Shop No-1, Turner Heights, Junction Of Turner Road, Almeida Park Marg, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050
- +91 97694 25750
- orders@neetalulla.com
- Monday to Sunday 10:30 am to 7:30 pm
- 4.5 google reviews
Ritu Kumar
In the glamorous world of fashion, Ritu Kumar reigns supreme as India’s top fashion designer. From humble beginnings with just a couple of tables and a printing block, Ritu has built her brand into a household name, celebrated for its stunning blend of traditional and contemporary Indian art forms.
Besides being a fashion icon, she is also a passionate revivalist, thanks to her profound knowledge of musicology and art history. Ritu isn’t just about style; she’s played an essential role in reviving traditional crafts and generating employment in less fortunate areas.
Her talent has caught the eyes of numerous celebrities like Vidya Balan, Priyanka Chopra, and Lara Dutta, who proudly don her designs. She’s even dressed participants in prestigious international pageants like Miss World, Miss Universe, and Miss Asia Pacific.
- Shop No- 3, Ground Floor, Link Palace Building, Linking Rd, Santacruz, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400054
- +91 2226000857, 0124 663 4335
- customercare@ritukumar.com
- Monday to Sunday 10:30 am to 8:30 pm
- 4.1 google reviews
Rohit Bal
Rohit Bal, born on October 13th, 1975, in Bombay, India, is a renowned fashion designer based in Delhi. Originally from a quaint town in Kashmir, Rohit completed his schooling in Srinagar before attending St. Stephens College. His journey into the fashion industry began in 1986 when he started working for his brother’s clothing company.
By 1990, he was creating collections under his name. Now, Rohit has a flagship store in Delhi and retail outlets in various major cities across India. A-list celebrities like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Lara Dutta, Kareena Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Priyanka Chopra, and Vidya Balan have proudly worn his designs.
Throughout his career, Rohit has been recognized with several prestigious international awards, such as the Red Carpet Award, Best Emerging Talent Award, and the World Fashion Council Award.
- Palladium Mall, Shop No-S/21A, 2nd Floor, High Street Phoenix, Lower Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400013
- +91 99588 00128
- info@rohitbal.com
- Monday to Sunday 11 am to 7 pm
- 4.4 google reviews
Tarun Tahiliani
When it comes to Indian fashion designers, Tarun Tahiliani stands out among the rest. He is a pioneer of multi-designer stores in India and is celebrated for his unique vision of blending different styles.
Tarun rose to fame as he masterfully combined traditional Indian elements with European fashion sensibilities. His distinctive bridal ensembles have earned him quite a reputation. Interestingly, Tarun wasn’t initially a professional fashion designer when he founded Tahiliani Design Studio. He went on to hone his craft at the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology.
Nowadays, he’s acclaimed for his bridal collections and his seamless fusion of contemporary fashion with classic Indian garments. Among the many celebrities he’s dressed are Sonam Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Esha Gupta, Hrithik Roshan, and Dia Mirza.
- Dubash House, JN Heredia Rd, Ballard Estate, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001
- +91 98192 12226, +91 98701 59777
- care@taruntahiliani.com
- Monday to Saturday 11 am to 7 pm, Sunday 12 pm to 7 pm
- 4.3 google reviews
Anamika Khanna
It’s truly remarkable that Anamika Khanna is the first Indian fashion designer ever to showcase her creations at Paris Fashion Week! Her designs are a beautiful blend of traditional Indian elements and techniques with a modern Western twist. After her stunning debut, she was quickly scooped up by Harrod’s, one of Britain’s top retail giants.
Anamika is best known for giving Indian fashion a contemporary update, making it fresh and relevant for today’s society. As the first Indian designer to create the international brand “Ana Mika,” she has dressed numerous celebrities like Karishma Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor, and Sonakshi in her dazzling masterpieces on the red carpet.
- Wing A, No-1, One Forbes, Dr, Forbes St, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001
- +91 033 2281 4425, +91 99033 79127
- assist@anamikakhanna.in
- Monday to Saturday 10:30 am to 7 pm, Sunday Closed
- 4.5 google reviews
Masaba Gupta
Masaba Gupta, a celebrated Indian fashion designer, has already made quite a name for herself in the industry. She took the fashion world by storm when she unveiled her clothing line, “House of Masaba,” at 19 years old, after earning her graduate degree.
Hailing from a remarkable lineage – as the daughter of famed actress Neena Gupta and legendary West Indian cricketer Vivian Richards – Masaba has become a prominent figure in Indian fashion.
Her stunning designs have caught the attention of Bollywood’s elite, like Sonam Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, and Kareena Kapoor Khan, who proudly sport her creations. Masaba is highly regarded for her knack for blending Indian traditions with a modern twist. Adding to her charm, she’s known for giving her collections memorable names.
- Unit No-8, New Sujata CHS. Ltd, Plot No-28, Juhu Tara Rd, Juhu, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049
- +91 77380 07478, +91 84529 50459, +91 96196 67603
- shoponline@houseofmasaba.com
- Monday to Sunday 11 am to 8 pm
- 4.1 google reviews
Archana Kochhar
Archana Kochhar embarked on her fashion journey 25 years ago, and there’s been no stopping her since. As an Indian fashion designer, she’s best known for her exceptional global design sensibilities. Her talent has earned her invitations to showcase her collection on both national and international runways. From Lakme Fashion Week to India Fashion Week and even New York Fashion Week, Archana has truly made a name for herself.
Her creations have garnered acclaim not only in India but also as far-reaching as the UK, UAE, Hong Kong, Thailand, Canada, and the USA. Additionally, Archana has teamed up with tribal weavers from Jharkhand to work on “Ahimsa silk” fabric – an incredible material produced without harming a single silkworm.
- 20, Swastik Plaza, Vaikunthlal Mehta Rd, Next to Kala Niketan, Yamuna Nagar, Nehru Nagar, JVPD Scheme, Vile Parle West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049
- +91 2226177117
- ak@archanakochhar.com
- Monday to Saturday 11 am to 8:30 pm, Sunday Closed
- 4.8 google reviews
Anita Dongre
From a simple girl next door hailing from Jaipur to making it big in Mumbai, Anita Dongre’s journey started with just two sewing machines in her bedroom and led her to open two stores in America with four labels under her belt. She even dressed the Duchess of Cambridge! Talk about a dreamer who truly achieved her goals.
Anita carefully crafted her labels to cater to the diverse needs of her customers, believing that people should wear brands rather than letting brands wear them. That’s why her dresses never overpower the wearer but exude a sense of sophistication and elegance. If you’re someone who loves eclectic and classy designs, Anita Dongre has all that and more just for you.
- Ground Floor, Everest Classic Building, Linking Rd, Khar West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400052
- +91 2267411503, +91 99993 13366
- care@anitadongre.com
- Monday to Sunday 11 am to 8 pm
- 4.6 google reviews
Gaurav Gupta
Gaurav Gupta, a talented designer and artist from New Delhi, co-founded his fashion label with his brother, Saurabh Gupta, in 2005. After graduating from the prestigious Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, they set up a stunning 5-story atelier just outside Delhi.
Over the past 18 years, they’ve opened 5 retail stores across India and built an impressive international distribution network through partnerships with esteemed retailers like Neiman Marcus, Moda Operandi, Bergdorf & Goodman, and more.
Gaurav has been celebrated as the ‘Future of Couture’ (AltaRoma AltaModa, 2003), a ‘Rule Breaker’ (GQ Style Awards, 2018), and ‘Ecopolitan Designer of the Year’ (GQ Men of The Year Awards, 2019). His unique design aesthetic is rooted in surrealism and inspired by fantasy, truly revolutionizing the Indian couture industry.
- Sanwa House - 97/99, Mumbai Samachar Marg, Opp. Bharath House, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001
- +91 96996 93434, +91 96500 47853
- info@gauravguptastudio.com
- Monday to Saturday 11 am to 7 pm, Sunday Closed
- 4.8 google reviews
Bibhu Mohapatra
Bibhu Mohapatra, born in Odisha in 1972, moved to the USA in 1996 with dreams of pursuing a Master’s degree. As a child, his mother fueled his passion for fashion by teaching him how to sew on her sewing machine, and he would practice using discarded saris and other fabrics. In 1999, Bibhu took a leap of faith and relocated to New York City where he joined the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology.
Today, Bibhu is an acclaimed Indian fashion designer known for his stunning evening gowns and luxurious furs. The elite crowd simply can’t get enough of his work! Throughout his career, he has collaborated with iconic American brands such as Halston and J. Mendel.
Even the First Lady Michelle Obama counts herself among Bibhu’s clientele. To him, she is the epitome of style and grace, perfectly embodying the essence of his designs.
- 174, Duane St, New York, NY 10013, United States
- +12125792095, +1 917 833 0271
- custom@bibhu.com
- Monday to Saturday 9 am to 6 pm, Sunday Closed
- 5.0 google reviews
Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla
This dynamic duo has been going strong for thirty years, boasting an impressive client list that includes legends like Amitabh Bachchan and Beyoncé. Remember Coldplay’s “Hymn For The Weekend” video? Their signature style lies in expertly incorporating Chikankari and Zardosi into their designs, notably showcasing them on the runway.
Their work masterfully blends European influences with traditional Indian craftsmanship, creating couture collections that combine a modern aesthetic with rich heritage. By exclusively using natural textiles, they’ve truly made a name for themselves. This team’s remarkable journey and incredible artistry can be appreciated in the two-volume book series “Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla.”
- Shop No-340, Second Floor, DLF Emporio, Nelson Mandela Marg, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi, Delhi 110070
- +91 75065 96625
- Monday to Saturday 11 am to 7 pm, Sunday Closed
- 4.0 google reviews
Shantanu Nikhil
These brothers have always been an unstoppable duo, joining forces nearly two decades ago when they started their own fashion label. They had a vision—combining vintage vibes with modern flair—to captivate the attention of trendy, urban youngsters. Since then, they’ve been impressing the fashion world with their chic, elegant, and stylish designs that hit the right spot with their target audience. It’s no wonder their launch went so smoothly; they had a knack for understanding what their fans truly wanted.
They didn’t just stop at successful bridal, contemporary, and haute couture collections either. Instead, they forged an extraordinary alliance with Adidas—the first Indian brand to do so. They even designed the jersey for one of the Indian Premier League’s top teams—the Mumbai Indians!
- Dresswalla House, 72, Ali Building, Shahid Bhagat Singh Rd, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400023
- +91 2222613963, +91 11 41193666
- support@shantanunikhil.com
- Monday to Sunday 11 am to 8 pm
- 4.0 google reviews
Payal Singhal
From a young age, she had a passion for fashion, and it’s no surprise that she became a fashion enthusiast. Payal Singhal, the parent label, has been flourishing in the industry for 15 years, delighting a growing list of youthful clients. As a designer, she has come a long way in the last decade and a half, becoming the epitome of excellence.
Her collection presents an invigorating twist on traditional Indian attire by incorporating contemporary designs like backless cholis for lehengas, lycra suits, and cowl pants with short satin salwars. Her runway creations are not only stunning but also ready-to-wear. You can instantly recognize Payal Singhal’s unique touch in each piece as they’re consistently affordable, edgy, and stylish, with colors reflecting her ever-changing moods and state of mind.
- Ground Floor, Bhogilal Hargovindas Bldg, 18/20, K Dubash Marg, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001
- +91 93215 78764, +91 91675 61434
- cs@payalsinghal.com
- Monday to Saturday 11 am to 7:30 pm, Sunday Closed
- 4.9 google reviews
Anju Modi
Being a true fashion enthusiast, she always knew fashion was her calling. She’s not just a believer in textiles, crafts, and the rich Indian heritage but also in the organic process of creating clothing. She’s passionate about weaving, block printing, and vegetable dyeing, among other techniques. Her efforts to revive traditional methods are genuinely remarkable.
Her 25-year-old brand is now synonymous with luxurious couture. Her stunning designs in the period drama Ram-Leela earned her high praise. The intricate and masterful costumes showcased in the film demonstrated her enthusiasm and commitment to craftsmanship.
Her genuine interest and passion for traditional design seemed to flow naturally from her fingertips. Fabrics like Chanderi, Zari, Banarasi, and Kota are the essence of her label.
- 145, Mehrauli-Gurgaon Rd, Sultanpur, New Delhi, 110030
- +91 99719 30444
- customercare@anjumodi.com
- Monday to Sunday 10:30 am to 7:30 pm
- 4.8 google reviews
Archana Rao
After graduating from the National Institute of Fashion Technology in Hyderabad and pursuing her post-graduation from Parsons College of Design in New York, Archana quickly climbed the fashion ladder and made a name for herself. Her unique approach to designing clothes involves experimenting with the structural design of each piece.
She enjoys playing with cuts, ombre effects, and more – all while maintaining a sense of balance and never compromising on aesthetics. Archana’s label is renowned for its elegant simplicity and understated beauty.
One of her standout collections, ‘Frou Frou,’ embodies this philosophy – the name itself means “the sound of fabric.” Archana’s creations often say that beauty lies in the details, but when you look closely at her dresses, one could say that true beauty can be found in the hidden information.
- 1721, Road No- 12, Sri Ram Nagar Colony, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500034
- +91 98664 26653
- hello@archanaraolabel.com
- Monday to Saturday 11 am to 6 pm, Sunday Closed
- 4.5 google reviews
Surily Goel
If you’re a Bollywood enthusiast, you’ve probably already heard of her. If not, she’s a prominent figure in the fashion world that you should be keeping an eye on. She kicked off her Bollywood career by designing outfits for Preity Zinta in ‘Salaam Namaste,’ and has since catered to numerous movies and stars. After graduating from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in LA, she founded her label ‘Ensemble.’
Her creations have graced the Lakme India Fashion Week, and one of her collections even got an invitation to Milan Fashion Week! Over the years, she has experienced remarkable growth and consistency. Known for her keen sense of fabrics and colors that harmonize with the seasons, she’s definitely one to watch!
- Naman, Bungalow No- 8, Grand Paradi, Dadysethhill, A.K.Marg, Mumbai 400036
- +91 22 23638502
- surily_g@yahoo.com
- 4.1 google reviews
Shyamal Bhumika
Shyamal & Bhumika is a renowned fashion house in India today, drawing inspiration from the country’s rich heritage and culture that dates back over five thousand years. This talented designer duo is dedicated to reviving India’s valuable craftsmanship and artisan techniques, aiming to create unique couture collections that cater to modern tastes.
Their brand remains true to their vision of showcasing “India to the World.” Through fashion, they connect their worldwide audience with the exquisite and intricate craftsmanship of Indian Couture. Their one-of-a-kind style strikes the perfect balance between timeless tradition and contemporary aesthetics.
- 343, DLF Emporio, VasantKunj, New Delhi, 110070
- +91 98337 71342, +91 99530 09916
- sales@shyamalbhumika.com
- Monday to Sunday 11 am to 7:30 pm
- 4.8 google reviews
Suneet Varma
After completing an apprenticeship with Yves Saint Laurent in Paris, Suneet Varma launched his own couture collection back in 1987. He even had the opportunity to work with Arvind Mills on a collaborative project featuring fashion designer Gloria Vanderbuilt. Finally making his fashion debut in 1991, Suneet Varma became known for creatively using intricate embroideries and 3D elements in his designs.
Drawing inspiration from sources like exotic fruits, flowers, twigs, dragonflies, animals and palm trees, he transforms each colorful design into a beautiful work of art. From frilly drapes and daring halter necks to eye-catching corsets, Suneet’s signature elements are always bold and stunning.
- 345, Second Floor, DLF Emporio, Nelson Mandela Marg, Vasant Kunj II, New Delhi, 110070
- +91 1146060970, +91 99996 89629
- suneetv@gmail.com
- Monday to Sunday 11 am to 9 pm
- 4.1 google reviews
Indian fashion designers have always celebrated our rich culture through their amazing designs. From Manish Malhotra to Suneet Varma, these top-notch designers have constantly brought Indian traditions to the spotlight. Their work inspires people to not only wear beautiful attires but also carry them with confidence. They’ve mastered the art of draping sarees and choosing accessories, making both Indian and Western outfits look absolutely fabulous on runway models and everyday folks alike.
So, there you have it – our list of India’s top designers!
If you’re interested in exploring talented designers near you, go ahead, and check out our comprehensive lists of Top designers in Delhi, Top Designers in Mumbai, and much more!
Until next time, stay stylish and happy fashioning!
Author
Step into the stylish world of fashion with Preet Kaur, a fashion blogger and industry expert. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for style, Preet illuminates the latest trends and timeless classics through her captivating blog posts. Her blogs serves as a comprehensive resource for fashion enthusiasts, offering valuable tips on everything from wardrobe essentials to high-fashion looks. Preet's insider know-how, garnered from years of experience in the fashion industry, provides readers with exclusive insights into fashion design, styling techniques, and industry secrets. Whether you're a budding designer, a seasoned professional, or simply someone who loves fashion, Preet Kaur's blog is your go-to destination for inspiration, education, and a touch of glamour.
