Apparel

Then they blend it with cotton. That is how the chain is. But the rate structure is reversed," the source noted. A uniform 12 percent rate across the synthetic value chain would "clean up – else there are hidden costs. Money gets stuck. Industry also is not able to compete."

However, the prospect of a uniform 12% GST rate on garments, particularly for those currently taxed at 5% (i.e., those below ₹1,000), has raised significant concerns within the industry whenever discussed in the past, with many warning of an adverse impact on consumer prices and demand. Industry bodies have previously voiced strong opposition to such a hike. "It is unfortunate that those who buy clothes costing less than Rs 1,000 will be the most affected," stated Vinod Kumar Gupta, managing director of Dollar Industries, during a similar discussion in late 2021. Rajesh Masand, Past President of the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI) has also previously noted that "the market is likely to see a 15-20% price increase in garments in the coming season even without the GST rate increase" due to other input cost pressures, suggesting that a further GST hike would only exacerbate this. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has also been vocal, highlighting that "Roti, Kapda & Makaan are three basic things of life... the cloth, which was accessible, has also been made expensive by the GST Council." Critics argue that increasing the GST on essential clothing, especially for the lower and middle-income groups, could dampen consumption and push a portion of the unorganized sector out of the GST net, potentially counteracting the very aim of formalization.

Industry voices and expectations

The textile industry has consistently advocated for GST rationalization. Industry bodies like the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI) have long pressed for a uniform and lower GST rate, arguing that it would lead to higher compliance and increased revenue for the exchequer.

"A uniform and low tax rate of five per cent can be a big game changer for the entire textile basket of the country," stated Rahul Mehta, Chief Mentor, CMAI, in a past representation, advocating for a fiber-neutral GST. Similarly, K. Selvaraju, Secretary General of the Southern India Mills Association, has also expressed the need for a fiber-neutral rate, suggesting a 5% rate for most products and 12% only for garments and fabrics priced above ₹2,000 (though the current slab is ₹1,000). While the industry's ideal may be a 5% uniform rate, the proposed 12% uniform rate is seen as a significant step towards addressing existing distortions and simplifying the tax structure, albeit with the noted concerns for the mass-market garment segment.

The GST Council's decision, expected before September, will be crucial in shaping the future trajectory of India's textile industry, paving the way for a more streamlined, competitive, and investment-friendly environment, while also navigating the concerns regarding potential price increases for everyday garments.

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Apparel 28/07/25

V-Mart Retail registers 177% rise in net profit in Q1, FY26

26 July 2025, Mumbai

V-Mart Retail reported a significant jump in net profit in Q1, FY26 spanning April-June 2025, driven by effective cost-cutting measures and improved operational efficiency. The Kolkata-based value fashion retailer's net profit increased by 177 per cent Y-o-Y to Rs 34 crore, even as a broader slowdown in consumer spending impacted sales at existing stores and overall demand in smaller Indian cities.

V-Mart's revenue rose by 13 per cent Y-o-Y to Rs 885 crore during the quarter, marking its highest quarterly revenue in over two decades. This performance slightly surpassed analyst estimates from Motilal Oswal, who had projected a 12 per cent growth.

While sales at older stores grew by a modest 1 per cent from a year earlier, V-Mart explained in an exchange filing that this figure was largely influenced by the early timing of the Eid festival shopping this year.

The company's earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) rose 27 per cent Y-o-Y to Rs 126 crore in the June quarter, as againt Rs 99 crore in the same period a year ago.

The subdued same-store sales growth at V-Mart reflects a wider consumption slowdown impacting discretionary retail across India. Other major retailers also reported muted performances; Avenue Supermarts (DMart) reported same-store sales growth of just 3.9 per cent in Q1 FY26, while Shoppers Stop experienced a 5.9 per cent contraction in same-store sales during the same period, indicating a general softness in footfalls and demand across both organized value and premium retail segments.

Apparel 26/07/25

V-Mart Retail registers 177% rise in net profit in Q1, FY26

Anny raises Rs 10 crore to expand product categories

26 July 2025, Mumbai

A burgeoning fashion tech startup, Anny has successfully raised Rs 10 crore in a pre-Series A funding round. The investment was led by early-stage venture firm Atomic Capital, marking a significant milestone for the rapidly growing company.

This newly acquired capital will be strategically deployed to expand Anny’s product categories, boost its proprietary technology stack, and strengthen both its leadership team and distribution networks. This fresh infusion of funds is expected to accelerate the startup's ambitious growth plans.

This latest funding follows an undisclosed seed funding round last year, which was led by Faad Capital, a prominent early-stage investment firm. That round also saw participation from several high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and angel investors, underscoring early confidence in Anny's business model.

Founded in 2023 by Japjot Singh, Aveen Kaur, and Rahul Tanwar, Anny has quickly carved out a niche as an accessible luxury label tailored for modern Indian women. The startup operates on a distinctive real-time, inventory-light model, leveraging a vertically integrated supply chain. This approach allows Anny to offer globally inspired, trend-led fashion at competitive price points, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency.

Japjot Singh, CEO, Anny, emphasizes, the company’s vertically integrated model, coupled with real-time trend responsiveness, allows it to minimize inventory risk and maximize consumer joy. With Atomic Capital’s backing, it doesn’t just scale faster, but also smarter. This investment fuels their ambition to become an over Rs 100 crore ARR (Annual Recurring Revenue) brand by next year and drive a true movement in India’s fashion-tech landscape.”

Anny attributes its remarkable eightfold increase in scale since its inception to its proprietary tech stack and responsive design process. By maintaining fast product cycles and a keen ability to anticipate and react to fashion trends in real-time, the company claims to minimize inventory risk while consistently achieving high consumer satisfaction. This blend of technology and fashion-forward agility positions ANNY as a key player in India's evolving fashion-tech ecosystem.

Apparel 26/07/25

Anny raises Rs 10 crore to expand product categories

D’Cot by Donear partners OMG Face of the Year to nurture India’s young talent

25 July 2025, Mumbai

An acclaimed men’s fashion brand with a significant presence across over 450 stores nationwide, D’Cot by Donear has entered into a partnership with India’s largest digital talent hunt, OMG Face of the Year.

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The alliance is designed to cultivate new opportunities and spotlight the vibrant energy of India's young generation. Adding significant prestige, celebrated celebrity photographer Daboo Ratnani will conduct exclusive photo shoots with the ultimate winners, offering an unparalleled launchpad for their careers in the fashion industry.

Parimal Mehhta, Founder, OMG Face of the Year, shares, the contest’s partnership with D’Cot by Donear offers participants not just visibility, but also invaluable exposure to the mainstream fashion industry. This season is likely to set a new benchmark for talent discovery and nurturing, he adds,

Aakash Mishra, AVP – Group Brand Marketing, Donear Group Fashion, adds, more than just a contest, this collaboration provides a meaningful platform that opens doors to the fashion industry, helping aspiring individuals gain the recognition they deserve.

The Grand Finale of this event will be held in Mumbai, where talented finalists will walk the ramp, showcasing D’Cot by Donear’s latest collection. This highly anticipated fashion walk will feature the Top 20 contenders from across India as they demonstrate their skills and charisma.

Akash Manwani, Vice President (D’Cot by Donear), adds, the integration of the brand’s latest collection into the finale ramp walk not only highlights contemporary fashion trends but also allows the finalists to embody the spirit of the D’Cot by Donear brand truly.

This partnership underscores a shared vision to identify, nurture, and celebrate India’s diverse talent pool, providing them with the visibility and recognition they deserve. It's a testament to both brands’ dedication to inspiring confidence and enabling young individuals to shine in the dynamic world of fashion.

Apparel 25/07/25

Rakesh Jallipally appointed as new CEO by Pepe Jeans London

26 July 2025, Mumbai

Iconic denim and lifestyle brand, Pepe Jeans London has appointed Rakesh Jallipally as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective July 24, 2025. With a career spanning over 18 years in the fashion, retail, and consumer technology sectors, Jallipally is expected to bring a wealth of strategic insight and experience to the company's India operations.

This key appointment signals a significant step in Pepe Jeans' ongoing growth strategy, aiming to strengthen its connection with India's dynamic and evolving consumer market.

Before joining Pepe Jeans, Jallipally served as Vice President at Flipkart, where he played a pivotal role in launching and expanding ‘Spoyl,’ a fashion platform targeting Gen Z. He also oversaw the men's fashion segment, gaining deep insights into India's digital-first retail landscape and the preferences of young, fashion-savvy consumers. This expertise will be crucial in elevating Pepe Jeans' presence and appeal in the Indian market.

Jallipally's extensive background also includes his instrumental role in the launch of Azorte Reliance Retail, further solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in India's fashion retail scene. He dedicated nearly a decade to Arvind Fashions, holding both CEO and COO roles, where he was instrumental in driving the growth and transformation of well-known brands like USPA and Flying Machine. His career began at Raymond, managing extensive retail operations across South India, which laid the foundation for his robust operational and strategic capabilities.

Holding a postgraduate diploma in Management from IIM Lucknow, Jallipalli specializes in marketing and strategy, providing him with a strong blend of academic knowledge and practical business leadership.

Apparel 26/07/25

Rakesh Jallipally appointed as new CEO by Pepe Jeans London

IMS Noida, Medusa Fashion House partner to launch new fashion entrepreneurship program

26 July 2025, Mumbai

Unison Education and Research Foundation (IMS Noida) and Medusa Fashion House, founded by Sonal Jindal, have officially partnered to launch Sparc to Mut, India's most accessible and outcome-driven fashion entrepreneurship program. This pioneering initiative is designed to bridge traditional classroom learning with crucial international fashion exposure, aiming to cultivate grassroots talent and transform them into global fashion entrepreneurs.

This strategic collaboration merges IMS Noida's robust academic infrastructure and pedagogical strength with Medusa Fashion House's extensive global network and invaluable real-world industry insights. The comprehensive five-stage program, ranging from the ‘Sparc Class’ to the ‘MUT Masterclass,’ will offer participants intensive hands-on training, opportunities to partner with government-recognized artisans, and the unparalleled chance to showcase their work on international runways, including the prestigious London Fashion Week.

This collaboration blends academic excellence with industry insight to empower grassroots talent and turn fashion dreams into global reality, states Sonal Jindal, Founder, Medusa Fashion House.

Chirag Gupta, Vice President, IMS Noida, adds, partnering with Medusa allows the institute to give their students real-world exposure and global platforms, shaping them into not just designers, but true fashion entrepreneurs."

The Sparc to Mut program also introduces the Tulip Access Clause, which connects students with sustainable fashion practices and certified artisans (‘karigars’). The initiative culminates in the formation of a Fashion Entrepreneurship Club, providing graduates with essential support in sourcing, mentorship, and access to international markets.

Apparel 26/07/25

IMS Noida, Medusa Fashion House partner to launch new fashion entrepreneurship program

TecnoSport launches maiden EBO in Andhra Pradesh at Vijaywada

25 July 2025, Mumbai

One of India's fastest-growing activewear brands, TechnoSport has opened its first EBO in Andhra Pradesh. Located in Vijayawada, the new store aims to launch the brand’s high-performance, tech-enabled apparel to the city's active and fitness-driven community.

This launch marks a significant development in TechnoSport's goal of establishing 50 EBOs by the end of 2025. It is the brand’s 14th store across India and a crucial milestone in its broader South India growth strategy.

Spanning 1,800 sq ft, the new EBO is strategically positioned to cater to the city's vibrant sports culture and increasing number of active lifestyle enthusiasts. Known for producing national-level athletes in sports like badminton, athletics, and rowing, Vijayawada offers an ideal market for

As the brand's inaugural outlet in Vijayawada, the store is thoughtfully designed as a hub for fitness-conscious and style-forward consumers. Its modern interiors and product-focused layout offer a seamless shopping experience. The Vijayawada EBO showcases TechnoSport’s best-in-class, made-in-India collections crafted for those who prioritize comfort, style, and durability.

Shoppers can explore a wide range, including advanced performance tees, polos, cooling joggers, shorts, and track pants. Each product incorporates proprietary Duracool+ and Technodry novations, providing UPF 50+ sun protection, anti-microbial freshness, powerful moisture-wicking, and superior stretch recovery. These smart technologies ensure lasting comfort and breathability in India’s dynamic climate, empowering consumers to stay active from dawn till dusk.

Sunil Jhunjhunwala, Managing Director & Co-Founder of TechnoSport, avers, remniscient of Andhra Pradesh’s sporting spirit, this store proves to be a perfect home for the brand’s first store in the state.

Puspen Maity, CEO, TechnoSport, adds, the brand’s stores are designed to offer immersive brand experiences where people can explore our latest innovations, feel the quality, and find products that truly support their active lifestyles. me.

Apparel 25/07/25

TecnoSport launches maiden EBO in Andhra Pradesh at Vijaywada

LuLu Group International plans new shopping mall and hypermarket in Andhra Pradesh

26 July 2025, Mumbai

UAE-based multinational business conglomerate LuLu Group International is set to significantly expand its presence in Andhra Pradesh by opening a massive shopping mall in Visakhapatnam and a food processing plant and hypermarket in Vijayawada. Announced by MA Yousuff, Ali, Chairman and Managing, LuLu International at the Investopia-CII meet, these initiatives are anticipated to create thousands of jobs and attract substantial foreign investment.

The upcoming mega-mall in Visakhapatnam is projected to employ between 5,000 and 8,000 individuals, a significant boost for local employment. This scale of job creation rivals that of LuLu's Cochin mall, currently India's largest, which provides employment for 8,230 people.

Beyond retail, LuLu Group also plans to open a new food processing plant and a hypermarket in Vijayawada. Similar hypermarkets are in the pipeline for other cities across Andhra Pradesh, indicates Ali. These initiatives are expected to infuse much-needed foreign exchange into the state's economy and generate considerable employment opportunities, he adds.

Andhra Pradesh is making commendable progress every day, and the LuLu Group is pleased to once again partner with the State government, Ali states. He acknowledged, earlier efforts to build the Visakhapatnam shopping mall did not materialize due to unforeseen circumstances, but expressed optimism for the current ventures.

Regarding the proposed food processing plant in Vijayawada, Ali highlighted the region's rich supply of raw materials. This facility will play a crucial role in ensuring an uninterrupted supply of produce to LuLu's 38 food processing plants globally. The company currently exports a substantial volume of vegetables and fruits from Andhra Pradesh.

Apparel 26/07/25

LuLu Group International plans new shopping mall and hypermarket in Andhra Pradesh

India-UK FTA Sparks Fashion Import Revolution: A new chapter for Indian retail and innovation

26 July 2025, Mumbai

India’s fashion and textile landscape is on the cusp of transformation following the July 24 signing of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA)—a landmark pact that not only promises to boost Indian exports, but significantly reconfigures the dynamics of imports, particularly in apparel, branded fabrics, and accessories.

While policymakers and trade bodies have long highlighted export gains, the FTA’s import-related provisions—especially duty reductions on nearly 90% of UK tariff lines—are set to usher in a surge of premium British and globally sourced fashion products at significantly lower price points in India.

Zero-Duty Era: What it means for fashion imports

The most game-changing aspect of the FTA is the reduction of import duties from the prevailing 10-20% to near-zero or minimal rates. While these benefits will take full effect by late 2026, groundwork by brands and buyers has already begun.

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India imported approximately US$ 10.6 billion worth of textile and apparel (T&A) products in 2022−23, and UK imports accounted for a growing portion of US$ 6.53 billion in total UK-India goods trade in 2024. Says Rahul Mehta, Chief Mentor, CMAI. "Duty-free imports from UK will also raise the bar for Indian brands and retailers to up their quality, service, and brand propositions - all of which will benefit the Indian consumer"

British labels & global brands eye India

British high-street and designer brands—including Marks & Spencer, Next, Primark, Burberry, ASOS, and Boohoo—are poised to benefit from smoother UK-India trade lanes and enhanced pricing flexibility. These brands, many already sourcing from India, now have strategic incentive to reroute supply chains to tap into India's booming luxury and mid-premium markets.

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Table: Current vs. Post-FTA Import Duty on UK Apparel & Fabrics

Category	Current Duty on UK Apparel/Textile	Post-FTA Duty (Projected)	Retail Impact
UK-branded apparel & accessories	10-20%	~0-5%	Premium clothing, accessories gain a pricing edge; more affordable luxury.
Premium shirting fabrics	10-20%	~0-5%	Reduced input costs for local manufacturers; better-priced end products.
Technical fabrics	10-20%	~0-5%	Boost for specialized manufacturing and innovation.
Luxury designer wear	10-20%	~0-5%	Increased accessibility for high-end fashion.

*Note: The exact reduction to 0% or minimal levels is subject to the specific tariff lines covered by the 90% reduction.

"Since imports of Apparel from UK are likely to be in the luxury and high-priced category, I am confident of the Indian domestic manufacturers' ability to face the increased competition".

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Challenges for Indian brands, but also new opportunities

The influx of competitively priced UK fashion raises stakes for Indian mid-tier and premium labels.

While competition will be intense, many see the FTA as an inflection point. Domestic brands are now expected to focus on heritage-based design, sustainability credentials, and localization, with a shift from price-driven strategies to value-driven branding.

Additionally, fabric traders and manufacturers importing UK materials for export (like cotton shirting and performance fabrics) will benefit from lower sourcing costs and improved profitability.

Strategic adjustments & future outlook

To leverage the FTA benefits, global brands operating in India must accelerate plans to import UK merchandise or fabrics for local assembly, enhancing affordability. Indian fashion players, meanwhile, must fortify their design, supply chain agility, and brand propositions.

Furthermore, India’s traditional wear segment might see export gains. According to CMAI, with the UK having a large Indian diaspora, this will also give a boost to the traditional domestic manufacturers of Indian ethnic apparel to venture into exports.

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A defining moment for India's fashion industry

The India-UK FTA marks a strategic turning point in India’s integration into the global fashion ecosystem. While domestic manufacturers brace for stiffer competition, the agreement opens doors to import-driven innovation, consumer choice, and global brand accessibility.

The next 12-18 months will be critical. As the countdown to duty-free imports begins, India’s fashion and retail sectors must prepare—not just to compete, but to transform and thrive in a more globalized fashion future.

Apparel 26/07/25

Derby appoints Gautham Ram Karthik as new brand ambassador

25 July 2025, Mumbai

Tamil Nadu's leading denim and menswear brand, Derby has appointed acclaimed Tamil Film Actor Gautham Ram Karthik as its official brand ambassador. This strategic partnership marks a pivotal moment in Derby's ambitious expansion plans, as the brand aims to capture the hearts and wardrobes of India's young, style-conscious demographic.

With nearly 50 retail outlets across South India, Derby has established itself as a go-to destination for quality denim and contemporary menswear. The brand's decision to collaborate with Gautham Ram Karthik reflects its commitment to resonating with today's ambitious youth who value both style and substance.

Karthik embodies everything Derby represents - he's classy, accessible, and genuinely talented," says Vijay Kapoor, Managing Director, Derby. His natural style and connection with young audiences make him the perfect ambassador for our next phase of growth. Like our denim, he's authentic, versatile, and always camera-ready, he adds.

Known for his compelling performances and effortless style both on and off-screen, Karthik adds, Derby's commitment to quality craftsmanship and contemporary design aligns perfectly with my personal style philosophy

This partnership comes at a strategic time as Derby prepares to accelerate its expansion across India, particularly through e-commerce. The brand plans to leverage Karthik's rising star power and authentic appeal to strengthen its position in key markets while attracting new customers who aspire to combine classic style with modern sensibilities.

Apparel 25/07/25

Linen Club open new outlet in Dwarka

26 July 2025, Mumbai

One of India's leading linen fabric brands, Linen Club has officially opened its newest outlet at Vegas Mall in Dwarka. This addition further enhances the mall's fashion offerings, providing customers with a sophisticated and immersive retail experience.

Located at Unit No. F-122, the new Linen Club store spans 523 sq ft. With a legacy spanning over six decades, Linen Club is renowned for its premium linen apparel and fabrics, which are celebrated for their style, breathability, and eco-conscious craftsmanship. The store's design reflects the brand's modern aesthetic while upholding its commitment to quality and elegance. Customers can find a wide range of products, from ready-to-wear garments to classic linen fabrics, catering to both men and women seeking comfort with a touch of luxury.

Ravinder Choudhary, Vice President, Vegas Mall, says, the brand aims to offer shoppers the finest mix of style, innovation, and comfort under one roof. Its reputation for sustainable and timeless fashion aligns perfectly with the mall’s vision to deliver exceptional retail experiences to our patrons in Dwarka and beyond.

The inclusion of Linen Club significantly strengthens Vegas Mall's position as a premier lifestyle and shopping destination in Delhi NCR. The mall is known for its curated blend of national and international brands, diverse entertainment options, and culinary experiences.

Apparel 26/07/25

Karnataka's UPI panic threatens fashion retail's formalization

25 July 2025, Mumbai

A celebrated digital payments revolution is facing an unexpected reversal in Karnataka, with small vendors ditching UPI transactions amidst a rise in GST notices. This ‘digital diveback’ is creating widespread panic among auto drivers, flower sellers, and milk vendors, but its long-term implications for the fashion and apparel retail sector are particularly concerning.

While the state's Commercial Taxes Department insists GST applies irrespective of payment method, the fear of complex compliance is pushing micro-businesses back to cash, threatening to derail the formalization of a significant part of India's textile and garment industry.

The discomforting truth is that avoiding UPI won't negate tax liability; it merely pushes small enterprises into the shadows, making them vulnerable and less competitive. When traditional apparel boutiques, local tailors, and street vendors retreat to cash-only, the vacuum will inevitably be filled by large, GST-compliant online platforms and organized retail chains, which already offer the digital convenience customers expect.

Fashion Guru

The looming threat to fashion's micro-entrepreneurs

The Indian fashion and apparel market heavily relies on its unorganized sector. Small businesses, the backbone of local fashion, have been slowly embracing UPI, bridging the gap with larger players. This sudden reversal risks:

Reversal of formalization: The shift back to cash by small apparel vendors will impede the formalization of the sector, making it harder to track transactions, claim input tax credits, and integrate into the broader, organized supply chain.

Customer migration: Consumers, particularly in urban areas, have grown accustomed to seamless UPI payments for all purchases, including clothing. A "cash-only" approach by local shops will drive them towards e-commerce giants and larger retail stores that offer robust digital payment options.

Competitive disadvantage: Organized fashion retail, already GST-compliant, stands to gain significantly. They can offer transparent pricing and digital convenience, further consolidating market share while smaller players grapple with compliance fears.

Table: Current GST rates for fashion & apparel in India

Category	GST Rate	Notes
Apparel & Footwear (Sale value < ₹1000)	5%
Apparel & Footwear (Sale value ≥ ₹1000)	12%	Includes readymade garments
Synthetic/Man-Made Fibers & Fabrics	18%
Cotton Fibers & Fabrics	5%
Tailoring Services	5%	(Reduced from 18% under HSN 9988)

Source: ClearTax, Razorpay (Based on recent GST Council discussions and existing norms)

Policy reform the real solution

The solution lies not in vendors abandoning UPI, but in pragmatic policy reforms.

MSME-style GST exemptions: Introducing higher, MSME-specific GST exemptions for micro-businesses with turnover below Rs 10 lakh could provide a much-needed buffer. Currently, the threshold is Rs 40 lakh for goods and Rs 20 lakh for services (or Rs 10-20 lakh in special category states), which can still be high for truly micro-enterprises.

Simplified compliance & automated filing: Automated, user-friendly filing systems designed for small vendors, minimizing complex paperwork, are crucial.

Targeted education programs: Extensive, localized education campaigns are needed to explain GST basics, the benefits of the composition scheme (1 per cent GST rate for traders, 5 per cent for restaurants, 6 per cent for service providers for turnovers up to Rs 1.5 crore for goods or Rs 50 lakh for services), and how to differentiate personal from business transactions.

Grace periods for first-time filers: Offering grace periods for first-time filers to regularize their status without heavy penalties would build trust and encourage compliance rather than fear.

The Commercial Taxes Department's stance that GST applies to supply value, not payment method, is legally sound. However, its implementation needs empathy and practical solutions that don't push the informal economy into hiding. For the dynamic fashion and apparel retail sector, ensuring small vendors can comfortably operate in the digital realm, with simplified tax compliance, is vital for inclusive growth and the continued success of "Digital India."

Apparel 25/07/25

Rahul Mishra showcases ‘Becoming Love’ at India Couture Week 2025 in Delhi

25 July 2025, Mumbai

Renowned designer Rahul Mishra showcased his collection ‘Becoming Love’ at the Hyundai India Couture Week 2025, held in collaboration with Reliance Brands and the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) in Delhi.

The show opened with Bollywood actress Tamannaah Bhatia donning a breathtaking Hand Embroidered Chérie Floral Gown.

The ensemble blended elegance and statement-making glamour, embodying the essence of Mishra’s latest vision.

Inspired by the seven stages of love described in Sufism, also known as the maqamat of ishq, the Becoming Love collection traverses a rich emotional landscape.

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These stages-dilkashi (attraction), uns (infatuation), aqidat and mohabbat (surrender in love), ibadat (devotion), junoon (obsession), and maut (death)-served as the design narrative.

True to Mishra’s signature style, the garments were exquisite tapestries of hand-embellished details.

Artisans brought his vision to life using techniques such as aari work, zardozi, naqshi, and dabka. Sequins, kundan stones, and white pearls added opulence to the runway, transforming every outfit into a wearable piece of art.

One of the most visually captivating elements of the show was Mishra’s reinterpretation of Gustav Klimt’s artwork through Indian embroidery techniques. Rich golds, vibrant florals, tigers, hearts, and mystical motifs flowed across gowns and silhouettes, each telling a story. The fusion of Western artistic themes with Eastern craftsmanship created an aesthetic that felt both timeless and boundary-breaking.

A highlight of the Hyundai India Couture Week 2025, Mishra’s show attracted fashion editors, celebrities, influencers, and design aficionados from across the country.