Top Fashion Designers
Manish Malhotra
London-born and Mumbai-raised Manish Malhotra got his first foray into the world of fashion as a model, before becoming a Bollywood costume designer in 1990 and has since become one of the most recognizable names in Indian fashion. Over the course of his illustrious career, Malhotra has styled over 1000 films and is credited with redefining and modernizing Bollywood costume design while his high couture label launched in 1998 earned him a place in mainstream fashion. Known for his luxurious, contemporary style that fuses traditional Indian colors, fabrics and embroidery, Malhotra is credited with helping bring Indian fashion cultures to the international stage.
Ritu Kumar
Launched in 1969, Ritu Kumar’s label has grown from a tiny studio on the outskirts of Kolkata to one of India’s biggest brands with 27 stores dotted across the country. Through her use of fine Indian fabrics and the country’s most talented craftspeople, Kumar has sought to redefine age-old Indian traditions in the contemporary era, creating a style that is both rich in Indian aesthetics and modern sophistication. A true pioneer in Indian fashion, Kumar has been recognized with prestigious awards including France’s Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres and India’s Padmi Shri Award for her contributions to fashion, textiles and craftsmanship.
Payal Singhal
As the daughter of award-winning Dinesh Singhal and granddaughter of renowned Indian artist J.P. Singhal, it is perhaps not surprising that Payal Singhal would become a creative soul and first foray into fashion – she was awarded the Shoppers Stop Designer of the Year Award at the tender age of 15 – established her prodigious talent. Today, Singhal’s self-titled label – which she launched in 1999 and produces custom made-to-order designs alongside ready-to-wear bridal, contemporary and occasion design – is synonymous with confident, cultured South Asian style and boasts a flagship store in Mumbai and retail outlets in Hong Kong, the Middle East, India and the USA.
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