1. Ritu Kumar
Ritu Kumar is a pioneering Indian fashion designer who has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Indian fashion over the last five decades. She is widely regarded as one of India's most prominent and influential designers. Ritu Kumar's journey in the world of fashion is a testament to her dedication, creativity, and commitment to preserving India's rich textile and craft heritage. Ritu Kumar studied art history at Lady Irwin College in Delhi and then pursued further studies at Briarcliff College in New York. During her time in the United States, she developed a keen interest in traditional Indian textiles and crafts, which would later become the foundation of her design philosophy.
In 1969, Ritu Kumar founded her eponymous label, "Ritu Kumar," in Kolkata, India. She started with just four hand-block printers and two tables, but her vision was far-reaching. She was among the first designers in India to recognize the potential of traditional Indian textiles and craftsmanship in contemporary fashion. Ritu Kumar's early work focused on reviving traditional Indian textiles and techniques that were on the verge of extinction. She played a pivotal role in resurrecting the ancient art of block printing, bandhani, and zardozi embroidery, among others. Her efforts not only preserved these crafts but also provided livelihoods to countless artisans across India.
Ritu Kumar's designs are characterized by their timeless elegance, exquisite craftsmanship, and deep-rooted connection to Indian culture. Her creations often feature a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary elements. She has a penchant for incorporating intricate hand embroidery, mirror work, and vibrant colors into her designs, making them a reflection of India's diverse heritage. Over the years, Ritu Kumar has created an extensive range of collections, including bridal wear, pret-a-porter, and diffusion lines. Her bridal collections are particularly renowned for their opulence and are a favorite among brides looking for a fusion of tradition and modernity on their special day.
Ritu Kumar's designs have graced both the silver screen and high-profile red-carpet events. She has dressed numerous Bollywood celebrities, including Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra, Dia Mirza, and Vidya Balan, among others. Her creations have also been featured in films, further solidifying her influence in the world of Indian fashion and cinema.
Ritu Kumar's contributions to the fashion industry have earned her numerous awards and accolades. She has been honored with the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian awards, in recognition of her outstanding work in the field of fashion and textiles. Her pioneering efforts in preserving India's textile heritage have earned her a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate the cultural significance of fashion. Ritu Kumar's legacy in Indian fashion is immense. She has not only been a trendsetter but also a guardian of India's textile and craft traditions. Her commitment to sustainable and ethical fashion practices has set a benchmark for the industry. Through her work, she has not only contributed to the economic empowerment of artisans but also showcased India's rich cultural heritage to the world.
2. Rina Dhaka
Rina Dhaka is a prominent Indian fashion designer known for her eclectic and innovative designs that have challenged the norms of traditional Indian fashion. Born in 1958 in Delhi, India, she has made a name for herself in the fashion industry by pushing boundaries and creating bold, contemporary, and avant-garde collections. Rina Dhaka's unique approach to fashion has earned her recognition both in India and internationally.
Rina Dhaka entered the fashion scene in the late 1980s and quickly gained attention for her unconventional and edgy designs. Her design philosophy has always been to challenge the status quo and introduce new elements into the Indian fashion landscape. She is known for experimenting with fabrics, textures, and silhouettes to create visually stunning and conceptually rich collections.
Rina Dhaka's signature style can be described as eclectic and boundary-pushing. She often combines traditional Indian elements with modern, global influences, creating a fusion of cultures in her designs. Her collections may feature a mix of bold prints, unconventional cuts, and unexpected details that challenge conventional notions of Indian fashion.
Throughout her career, Rina Dhaka has presented a series of avant-garde collections that have garnered critical acclaim. Her designs have been characterized by their artistic and experimental nature, often pushing the boundaries of what is traditionally considered "Indian" in fashion. Her willingness to take risks and explore new territories has made her a maverick in the Indian fashion scene.
Rina Dhaka's has showcased her collections at various international fashion weeks, including London Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week, and Paris Fashion Week, gaining recognition on the global stage. Additionally, she has collaborated with international brands and designers, further expanding her reach and influence.
Rina Dhaka is a trailblazing Indian fashion designer known for her avant-garde and experimental approach to fashion. Her willingness to challenge conventions and her ability to create designs that push boundaries have earned her recognition and respect in the industry. Her legacy as a maverick designer continues to inspire and shape the future of Indian fashion.
3. Anju Modi
Anju Modi is a prominent Indian fashion designer born in 1947 in Lucknow, India, she has made a significant impact on the Indian fashion industry with her commitment to preserving traditional textiles and techniques. Anju Modi's designs are characterized by their timeless elegance, intricate detailing, and a deep-rooted connection to India's diverse heritage.
In 1990, Anju Modi established her eponymous label, "Anju Modi." From the outset, her focus was on reviving and reinterpreting traditional Indian textiles and craftsmanship for contemporary fashion. Anju Modi's designs are celebrated for their regal and timeless appeal. She is known for her use of luxurious fabrics, intricate embroidery, and attention to detail. Her creations often feature ornate and traditional motifs, showcasing a fusion of Indian and Western design elements. Modi's ability to seamlessly blend heritage with modernity sets her apart as a distinguished designer.
Anju Modi's bridal collections are highly sought after for their opulence and elegance. Her bridal ensembles feature intricate handwork, intricate embellishments, and a commitment to showcasing the finest Indian textiles, such as Banarasi silk, velvet, and brocade. Brides who choose Anju Modi's creations for their special day often exude grace and sophistication.
Anju Modi has been a prominent figure in the Indian fashion scene for many years. She has showcased her collections at prestigious fashion events, including Lakme Fashion Week and India Couture Week, where her designs have received critical acclaim. Her brand has garnered international attention, and her creations are often featured in prominent fashion publications.
Anju Modi’s ability to seamlessly blend tradition with modernity has earned her recognition and admiration from both fashion enthusiasts and industry insiders. Her legacy as a designer dedicated to preserving and promoting India's textile and craft traditions continues to thrive and inspire.
4. Anamika Khanna
Best known for her eponymous label, Anamika Khanna is much revered in the industry. Her collection is an act of presenting India's rich craft encapsulated in global contours. Anamika's philosophy is about innovation with regards to the Indian style, while also keeping it extremely relevant to the modern world. For instance, the dhoti pant, commonly accredited to the brand, is now accepted as a modern high waist trouser worn with a dupatta or the Indian skirt. Her collections can be termed as decorously Indian but Goth, Punk and Bohemian at the same time. She has set forth a new trend in draping saris through three different drapes: The tulip drape, the wavy drape and the two-pallu in dhoti-style drape, teamed up with kurtas and capes, boots and shirts gives a perfect example of modern relevance.
Seen as highbrow and sartorial in equal measure, Anamika has been reigning the crown of many firsts. From being the first Indian woman to showcase her collection in the Paris Fashion Week to being part of the Business of Fashion 500 list, Anamika was offered an exclusive contract by British Retail Giant Harrod's after her participation in the London Fashion Week, 2010. Her philanthropist side was evident when she helped raise large amounts for the Tata cancer hospitals children's wing and for the Akshay Patra Foundation, with a show in London.
Anamika Khanna was one of the three designers who presented their collections in Khadi at the fashion show held by Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) in coordination with Gujarat State Khadi and Village Industries for Narendra Modi’s made in India project. She is among the first Indian fashion designers to present their collections in Pakistan as part of the Bridal Asia event.
She collaborated with the brand Bvlgari to launch them in New Delhi and did a private event with them in Singapore.
She was yet again awarded as the most stylish designer by the Hindustan Times and bestowed with the title at The Hindustan Times India's Most Stylish Awards, 2019. Anamika is considered a role model to women in India for her contribution to the world of Indian Fashion and Crafts.
5. Anita Dongre
Founder of the iconic Indian fashion house of Anita Dongre, Anita Dongre is an Indian fashion designer who has been in this creative field since the start of her career in Mumbai in 1998. In the initial days, she was known for her jewelry brand Anita Dongre pink city which till now is part of her fashion house. Later on, she decided to try her hands in the field of fashion, and today she has three different fashion labels under her brand which are AND (Western wear), GLOBAL DESI (boho-chic inspired by folk tales) and her signature line ANITA DONGRE. Her designs are immensely inspired by the folk culture clubbed with modern aesthetics which has made her couture famous worldwide. Anita Dongre has been credited with creating a unique blend of traditional Indian textiles and contemporary designs. She is known for her bridal and occasion wear collections, as well as her sustainable fashion initiatives.
Anita's couture is very popular among the vegans as she prohibits the use of leather or any animal obtained material for her brand. Anita Dongre’s designs have been worn by celebrities such as Kate Middleton, Hillary Clinton, and Priyanka Chopra. Her brand has a strong presence in India, with over 700 points of sale across the country, as well as internationally in countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Fortune India counts her among their “50 Most Powerful Women in Business” lists, while hers is the only fashion house in the country to have received investment from private equity firm General Atlantic. She is often referred to by the Indian media as the “Queen of Prêt”.
Her philanthropic efforts through the Grassroots initiative have empowered many rural artisans, especially women, by providing them with stable employment opportunities. This has also helped in preserving India’s rich heritage of traditional crafts that might have otherwise been lost to time. Anita Dongre’s dedication to this cause has garnered her many accolades and has made her a role model for other social entrepreneurs.
Anita Dongre is a true inspiration for young entrepreneurs and fashion enthusiasts alike. Her innovative designs, social entrepreneurship, and commitment to sustainability make her an outstanding personality in the Indian fashion industry. Her achievements demonstrate that it is possible to be successful while also making a positive impact on society and the environment.
