A recent report by Angel One and Iconic Asset projects doubling of India's overall consumption by 2034, with the fashion and apparel sector expected to be a significant growth driver. This rise is due to a potent mix of demographic shifts, rising disposable incomes, and evolving style preferences, transforming India into a global fashion powerhouse.

The fabric of growth

Gen Z's style revolution: India's Gen Z population is at the forefront of the fashion revolution. Their growing disposable incomes and strong brand consciousness are driving demand for trendy apparel and accessories. Social media and digital platforms heavily influence their fashion choices, creating a culture of rapid trend adoption.

The rise of branded apparel: As disposable incomes rise, consumers are shifting towards branded apparel, seeking quality and style. The entry of international brands and growth of domestic labels is increasing consumer choices and creating a competitive market. Fashion marketing executives say, the rising middle class in India is becoming increasingly brand conscious, and they are willing to spend more on quality apparel. This has created a huge opportunity for both domestic and international brands. A case study within the report highlights the success of a domestic Indian brand that has utilized social media marketing, and influencer partnerships to generate massive sales, and brand awareness within the Gen Z demographic.

E-commerce's fashion frontier: E-commerce platforms are democratizing fashion, making it accessible to consumers across urban and rural India. Online retail is fostering a culture of convenience and choice, driving sales of apparel and accessories. As a fashion retail analyst puts it, the digital revolution has transformed the fashion landscape in India. Social media influencers and online platforms are shaping consumer preferences and driving rapid trend cycles.

The urban chic trend: Rapid urbanization is leading to a greater awareness of global fashion trends, with consumers seeking stylish and contemporary apparel. What’s more, nuclear families, and the increase of working women are also increasing the demand for fashionable and work appropriate clothing.

The growth of the Indian textile industry:  The growing Indian textile industry is allowing greater domestic production of garments, and materials thereby increasing the availability of clothing, and potential for greater exports.

Thus the report reveals the Indian fashion and apparel sector is ready for explosive growth, with demographic, economic, and technological factors at play. Businesses that can adapt to the evolving tastes of consumers, embrace e-commerce, and prioritize sustainability will be well-positioned to capitalize on this burgeoning market.

India's top retailer for designer luxury clothing, Aza Fashions has launched a new campaign highlighting the themes of authenticity, ambition and cultural pride.

Launched in collaboration with five prominent US-based South Asian women: Ami Desai, Beauty Expert and Entrepreneur;  Shivani Bafna, Owner, Corefelt and Marigold Diaries; Sheena Melwani, Singer-Songwriter and Social Media Star and Michelle Ranavat, Founder, Ranavat, the campaign is presented through a visually compelling imagery. It emphasizes on mentorship, stressing the importance of supporting emerging South Asian voices in the global fashion and lifestyle industry.

The campaign showcases beautiful designs from well-known designers like Seema Gujral, Ridhi Mehra, Bhumika Sharma, Charu & Vasundhara, Matsya, and others. The initiative also emphasizes mentorship,

Devangi Nishar Parekh, Managing Director, Aza Fashions, states, more than just fashion, this campaign focuses on storytelling, empowerment, and inspiring the next generation of South Asian women to embrace their heritage while creating their own paths.

Through this partnership, Aza Fashions continues to champion innovation, representation, and inclusivity in luxury fashion, uniting powerful voices that are shaping the future of South Asian influence globally.

Taking the audience on a journey along the historic Silk Route, Afew, the brand by Designer Rahul Mishra presented his Fall/Winter 2025 collection at LFW X FDCI 2025 in collaboration with Nexa. With Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor turning showstopper for the show, the collection showcased a blend of textile traditions and global aesthetics.

Exploring the cultural exchange facilitated by the Silk Route, Mishra's collection merged Indian Bandhani and Japanese Shibori textile techniques while drawing inspiration from European art, particularly Henri Rousseau's jungle scenes. The designs of this collection featured sculptural proportions for both men and women, reflecting the fluidity of historical trade and cultural exchange.

Janhvi Kapoor walked the ramp for the show’s finale in a striking black robe that revealed a shimmering, high-slit gown, adding a touch of contemporary elegance to the collection's dramatic silhouettes.

The runway's decor featured blind-spot mirrors, a nod to Nexa's automotive technology, symbolizing the intersection of past and future. Partho Banerjee of Maruti Suzuki highlighted the alignment of Nexa's innovation and luxury with Mishra's design philosophy.

Held in Mumbai from March 26-30, 2025, LFW X FDCI 2025 featured a range of designers, including Tarun Tahiliani's OTT, Saaksha & Kinni, and S&N by Shantnu Nikhil, among others.

The event served as a platform for showcasing India's diverse and innovative fashion landscape.

The latest season of the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour concluded with a spectacular finale in Guwahati that redefined ‘athleisure’ with its innovative ‘Play En-Vogue’ concept.

Held at the Greenwood Resort, the event featured cutting-edge designs from renowned Indian designers Nitin Bal Chauhan, Abhishek Patni (NoughtOne), and Pawan Sachdeva.

Bollywood star Ishaan Khatter graced the show as the celebrity guest, while rappers KR$NA and KARMA delivered high-energy performances, blending fashion and music.

Held in partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), the tour pushed the boundaries of Indian fashion with avant-garde designs. The designers presented fresh takes on athleisure, featuring oversized silhouettes, asymmetrical cuts, vibrant colors, and striking graphics.

Abhishek Patni's brand NoughtOne showcased its ‘Racer 01’ collection, a fusion of streetwear and rock-inspired style, reflecting music's dynamic influence. Pawan Sachdeva's ‘The Dis-

Aligned’ collection disrupted traditional fashion norms by blending controlled chaos, premium materials, and innovative techniques. Nitin Bal Chauhan's ‘Chamunda’ collection reimagined medieval armor for modern streetwear, combining historical elements with contemporary details, highlighted by hand-painted artwork.

Kartik Mohindra, Chief Marketing Officer, Pernod Ricard India, described the event as the culmination of the tour's vision. Throughout each city, the tour redefined creative boundaries with visionary designers and celebrities. The 'Play En-Vogue' finale in Guwahati was a celebration of the unconcntioa blending of fashion, art, and spontaneity.

Sunil Sethi, Chairman, FDCI, stated, the event reinforces their commitment to shaping the future of fashion. Ashish Soni, Curator of the tour, emphasizes, it plays a pivotal role in creating immersive experiences that combined fashion, glamour, and creativity.

The successful conclusion of the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour in Guwahati consolidated its position as a trendsetter in India's evolving fashion scene.

Luxury brand Shivan & Narresh showcased their swimwear collection during the recently-concluded LFW X FDCI 2025.

Titled, Leisure, the collection looked back at the French artist Fernand Léger, taking him as an inspiration It reinvented the brand’s Leisure print introduced in 2016 and expanded it into a collection inspired by Leger, said Designer Naresh.

Discussing the color palette for the collection, Designer Shivan attributed their vibrant choices to their Indian upbringing. While their collections are typically bold and colorful, the ‘Leisure Leisure’ line also features pieces perfect for vacation wear, he highlighted.

India's first luxury holiday brand, Shivan & Narresh launched in Cannes at ‘Mare di Moda’ with their unique 100 per cent stitch-free swim line. ¹  

Held at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai from March 26-30, 2025, the Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 celebrated its 25^th anniversary this year. It showcased beauty, fashion innovation, and sustainability with over 100 designers.

Bollywood actor Kalki Koechlin turned showstopper for two collections- Sicilian Summer and Amalfi Escape by Dubai-based retailer Max Fashion at LFW X FDCI 2025.

Organized during the recently-concluded Lakme Fashion Week, the fashion show was held in partnership with Fashion Design of Council (FDCI) in Mumbai.

Sumit Chandna, Deputy CEO, Max Fashion says, the launch of these two collections represents the next big step in the company’s operations. The retailer has always great fashion available to everyone—whether through over its 520 stores or growing online presence.

Kalki Koechlin adds, this collection speaks to the power of individuality, effortless style, and the confidence to own uniqueness. Max has always advocated the idea that fashion should be made available for everyone. The brand celebrates self-expression and inclusivity

Max Fashion will launch its Sicilian Summer and Amalfi Escape collections on the brand’s website, e-commerce marketplaces and physical stores across the country.

Thrifting in India is moving from the fringes of necessity-driven shopping to a conscious lifestyle choice. Once perceived as a last resort for those with limited means, second-hand shopping has now become a preferred alternative for fashion enthusiasts, sustainability advocates, and budget-conscious consumers. This shift signifies more than just a change in consumer habits—it indicates a broader cultural movement where affordability, individuality, and environmental responsibility converge.

A cultural shift towards second-hand fashion

Thrifting was once overshadowed by societal perceptions that associated second-hand clothing with financial struggle. However, today’s consumers—especially younger generations—view thrifted fashion as a statement of individuality and an opportunity to make environmentally responsible choices.

The rise of fast fashion has led to excessive textile waste, increasing concerns about the industry's carbon footprint. Thrifting presents a sustainable alternative, allowing people to extend the life cycle of garments while reducing demand for new production. Also, thrifted clothes offer an element of exclusivity—shoppers can find unique, vintage, and branded pieces that stand apart from mass-produced styles. This exclusivity, coupled with affordability, makes second-hand fashion an attractive option for many.

Another major growth factor is social media. Instagram has become a virtual marketplace for curated thrift collections, allowing small businesses and independent sellers to thrive. Social media not only provides visibility to thrift stores but also shapes consumer perception, portraying thrifted fashion as trendy and desirable. The increasing acceptance of pre-owned fashion reflects a deeper shift in attitudes, where sustainability and style go hand in hand.

Growth of Indian thrift market

As per Credence Research the second-hand apparel market in India was valued at $3,003.65 million in 2023 and expected to grow at a CAGR of 13.04 per cent from 2024 to 2032. This suggests the market could reach $9,111.35 million by 2032. India’s thrift industry mirrors global trends, where second-hand fashion is outpacing traditional retail. ThredUp’s resale report states, the global resale market is set to grow 11 times faster than conventional retail by 2028. These figures highlight the increasing consumer shift towards sustainable and cost-effective shopping alternatives.

E-commerce and social media are playing a crucial role in this growth. The ease of access to thrift stores through Instagram, Facebook, and dedicated online platforms has significantly increased their reach. Digital solutions, such as AI-powered recommendations and virtual thrift marketplaces, are further boosting customer experience. Moreover, the concept of a circular economy—where products are reused, refurbished, or resold—has gained traction, reinforcing the importance of extending the lifespan of clothing.

The rise of online/offline thrifting stores

The thriving online thrift ecosystem is largely driven by independent sellers who curate high-quality, second-hand clothing for a growing customer base. Many Instagram thrift stores are gaining popularity for their carefully selected pieces, personalized shopping experiences, and affordable pricing. For many GenZ shoppers, thrifting online is not just about affordability—it’s also about discovering hidden gems that offer a break from fast fashion’s repetitive designs.

Despite the growth of online thrifting, traditional second-hand markets continue to hold their charm. Delhi’s Sarojini Nagar market and Mumbai’s Mangaldas market are go-to destinations for budget-conscious shoppers seeking stylish yet affordable clothing. These bustling hubs offer an extensive range of second-hand apparel, catering to a broad audience that values thrift shopping for its variety and affordability.

Challenges and opportunities

Despite its growing popularity, thrifting in India still faces many challenges. Cultural perceptions around wearing pre-owned clothing remain a barrier for some, as second-hand items have traditionally been associated with lower economic status. Also, ensuring quality and hygiene standards in thrifted clothes are a concern for buyers. Building a reliable and efficient supply chain for second-hand goods is another hurdle that the industry needs to overcome.

However, the opportunities far outweigh the challenges. The continued growth of online thrift platforms and mobile apps offers good growth potential. Thrift stores can also collaborate with established fashion brands to promote sustainability and integrate second-hand clothing into mainstream retail spaces. Moreover, consumer education highlighting the environmental benefits of thrifting can help change perceptions and encourage more people to embrace the practice.

Future of thrifting in India

As sustainability takes center stage, thrifting will become a mainstream practice in India. With growing environmental awareness and an increasing preference for unique, budget-friendly apparel, the second-hand market is set to flourish. The integration of technology, such as AI-driven thrift platforms and digital resale solutions, will further accelerate this trend.

Thrifting is no longer just an alternative—it is a movement. It represents a cultural and economic shift towards more responsible consumerism, where affordability, sustainability, and personal style align. As India embraces this change, the second-hand apparel market will continue to redefine fashion norms, making sustainable shopping an integral part of the country’s retail landscape.

To mark the brand’s fifth anniversary celebrations, S&N by Shantnu Nikhil unveiled its ‘Piazza Nova’ collection featuring Bollywood actor Ibrahim Ali Khan at a runway show held during LFW X FDCI 2025.

Focusing on celebrating designers who use their designs to create personal narratives, the collection empowers individuals to define luxury on their own terms, state Designers Shantnu and Nikhil..

Primarily menswear with select womenswear, the collection showcased sharply tailored suits, bold printed shirts, and relaxed silhouettes. Some of its notable features included wide lapels, intricate jacket embroidery, and versatile separates designed for mix-and-match styling.

The show ended with Ibrahim Ali Khan walking the ramp in a sand-colored bandhgala jacket, slim trousers, and a white shirt, reflecting the collection's refined yet relaxed aesthetic. Designed with an aim to cater to the evolving Indian luxury consumer, the collection helps bridge the gap between couture and ready-to-wear.

S&N currently operates 17 stores across eight Indian cities, along with a growing global online presence. Held from March 26-30, 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, Lakmé Fashion Week served as the platform for this milestone celebration and collection launch.

Bollywood actress Kalki Koechlin closed the ‘Max Presents Sicilian Summer and Amalfi Escape’ show at Lakmé Fashion Week X FDCI, Day 5, as the showstopper. She wore a stunning white printed frock-style dress, effortlessly drawing attention with her elegant and stylish presence.  

During the event, Koechlin shared her challenges faced in selecting outfits while caring for a toddler. Decide what to wear while carrying a toddler can be quite challenging, she said. Because one doesn’t want anything to get on their dress and therefore need something flexible and comfortable, she explained.

At the show Koechlin wore an outfit inspired by Italy's vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes. Representing Italy, this outfit has a lot of Italian references. It's really about escape and travel and the kind of summery, light feeling you have when you're on vacation, she said.

On the professional front, Kalki Koechlin made her Tamil film debut with ‘Nesippaya,’ where she played a lawyer. Directed by Vishnuvardhan and featuring music by Yuvan Shankar Raja, the film was released in theaters on January 14, 2025.