Current trends in Indian fashion: 2024
Indian fashion trends are a dynamic fusion of modern and traditional styles which is shaped by global fashion trends, cultural legacies and celebrity endorsements. The fashion industry of India has become one of the fastest-growing sectors and it has gained attention from all over the world due to its inventiveness, diversity, and sustainability. The Indian fashion sector is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11–12% with a total value of $115–$125 billion by 2025. However, this industry is facing both possibilities and problems due to growing competition, shifting consumer tastes, and technological changes. The trends faced by the Indian fashion industry are discussed below.
Sustainable Fashion Trend
The sustainable fashion movement in India has been accelerated recently due to the creative methods used by the fashion industry, increased ethical and environmental consciousness, and expanding customer knowledge. In this context, the sustainable fashion market of India is expected to grow with a CAGR of 10.6% between 2021 and 2026. The use of eco-friendly fabrics has been considered as one of the major sustainability initiatives in the fashion sector which includes organic and natural materials. The utilization of fabrics like tencel, hemp, bamboo, and organic cotton is on the rise in the fashion sector of India due to its minimal environmental impact in comparison to traditional materials.
On the other hand, the use of recycled materials has also shown a positive trend in the Indian fashion market for cutting waste and encouraging circularity. The textile recycling market size in India has reached $ 318.8 million in the year 2023. Likewise, fashion brands including Doodlage, Adheera, Earthy Route and others are utilizing recycled materials like regenerated fibers and recycled polyester to lead with the sustainable fashion trends in the Indian market. However, sustainable fashion is generally more expensive in comparison to traditional fashion which remains a concern for its adoption.
Trend of Gender Fluid Fashion
India is observing a higher growth in the popularity of gender-flexible clothing as part of a larger worldwide trend towards inclusivity and individuality. This trend welcomes a more flexible approach to fashion and questions established gender conventions. Gender-fluid fashion stands as a lighting candle for self-expression and inclusivity in the era of increasing recognition of the diversity of human identity. This trend is playing a crucial role in breaking the traditional norms and binaries by reshaping the fashion landscape, celebrating individuality and challenging stereotyping.
A growing number of fashion houses and designers in India are producing collections of clothing that are appropriate for all body types. These collections of gender-fluid fashion frequently include adaptable items with loose fit and neutral colors. Fitted blazers with skirts or oversized shirts and blazers are examples of clothing that work on blending the aspects typically associated with both femininity and masculinity. These types of outfits are growing in popularity with the rising concept of diversity and inclusivity throughout the world. For example, the Indian fashion designer Ayushman Mitra is known for promoting gender-neutral fashion through the fashion label Bobo Calcutta which was featured by GenNext Designer at Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2018. Nonetheless, social acceptance and understanding remain one of the major challenges related to gender-fluid fashion.
Modern Traditional Fusion
Modern traditional fusion is a current trend in India which is a blend of wearing Indian elements with contemporary designs to create an innovative and stylish look which appeals to modern sensibilities while respecting cultural heritage. This fusion works as a bridge between tradition and modernity as well as making traditional fashion more versatile and relevant to the modern fashion landscape. In this context, the demand for pre-stitched sarees has significantly increased in Indian fashion which has made the draping easier without losing its charm. Moreover, the use of saree blouses with modern cut-like off-shoulder styles, tailored blazers and crop tops are also adding a contemporary twist to traditional garments.
Trend of Tech-Infused Fashion
Tech-infused fashion is another trend that is rapidly gaining awareness in India which blends technology and fashion for producing wearable art. The wardrobe and lifestyle of the Indian people are being revolutionized by the integration of fashion and technology. As the world is becoming more digitally connected, fashion is also using technology with never-before-seen possibilities for convenience, self-expression, and practicality. In this context, clothing with embedded LED lights, temperature management, or even biometric tracking is an example of the use of technology in fashion.
LED clothing is one of the examples of tech-infused fashion which is being chosen by individuals for parties and events. Moreover, heated clothing is working as a game changer in fashion in the cold winter months by providing adjustable warmth. Conversely, the higher initial costs associated with the products remain one of the major concerns in tech-infused fashion.
Bold Colors and Prints Trend
The use of bold prints and colors is a vibrant trend in Indian fashion which reflects both contemporary influences and traditional aesthetics. In today’s time, bold colors and prints are being utilized by the Indian people both in their daily wear as well as in high fashion. Vibrant hues and bold colors like electric blue, deep red, hot pink, neon green, and neon pink are in fashion right now. These colors are frequently utilized by people in statement pieces or monochromatic attire to create a powerful visual effect.
The use of geometric prints with sharp angles and bold shapes is also considered trendy in fashion, providing a contemporary and edgy look. Playing with colors is observed highly in Gen Z fashion for creating unique appeal and adding a creative touch to outfits. Nevertheless, bold fashion colors are considered unprofessional and inappropriate by many people due to perceiving them as attention-seeking and drawing too much focus.
The use of statement accessories, layering and minimalism are other trends in fashion in India right now. The trend in Indian fashion reflects a blend of contemporary innovation and traditional values while showcasing the unique position of India in the global fashion landscape along with embracing sustainability and modern sensibilities.
