Top 13 Fashion Designers In India That Make Couture Dreams Come To Life

Sabyasachi began his journey at Indian Fashion Week in 2002 with the Kashgar collection, showcasing upcycled colours and prints. He reigns over the world of bridal lehengas and is every bride’s dream designer. Not only has he dressed leading Bollywood actresses like Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt for their weddings, but his lehengas are so sought after that brides who manage to secure a Sabyasachi lehenga are known as the 'Brides of Sabyasachi'. His collections capture the essence of India, serving as an ode to our heritage by blending traditional, tribal motifs with the vibrancy of Indian arts through exquisite styling and design. In addition to lehengas, his accessories and belts are also incredibly popular. He is undoubtedly one of the top Indian designers and has gradually expanded his clientele abroad as well.

Instagram Handle: @sabyasachiofficial

Manish Malhotra became a household name after styling Urmila Matondkar for the film Rangeela and has since been part of many iconic movies, earning numerous accolades along the way. His career began on film sets, and he has played a pivotal role in integrating fashion into cinema. Recently, he designed the wedding lehengas for Parineeti Chopra and Kiara Advani. His collections are renowned for their sequin threadwork and signature embellishments, characterised by shimmer and sparkle, which is why they resonate with us.

Instagram Handle: @manishmalhotra05

With an iconic list of clients, including Princess Diana and Lara Dutta, Ritu Kumar (a Padma Shri winner) has popularised Indian fashion globally. She has created such magic with Indian fabrics, motifs, and handlooms that her work has served as a manual for budding designers for years. She began her journey in a small village in Serampore, West Bengal, and now her brand is divided into three segments, focusing on daily wear, bridal-occasion wear, and western clothing. Her forte lies in diverse designs and Indian threads, combined with contemporary styles. Her RT Collection ’23 at Indian Couture Week left everyone, including us, completely enchanted. Currently, she is among the most renowned fashion designers in India.

Instagram Handle: @ritukumarhq

Tarun Tahiliani’s love affair with fashion began in 1987 when he opened India’s first multi-designer store, 'Ensemble.' As a textile designer and bridal couture giant, Tahiliani is a stalwart in the fashion industry. His approach to fashion is deeply rooted in India’s textile heritage, featuring beautiful weaves and embellishments with a global appeal, characterised by drapes and silhouettes that fall in all the right places. The way he juxtaposes traditional patterns with contemporary designs is truly a work of art, and every piece he creates is nothing short of magical. He is one of our all-time favourite fashion designers in India.

Instagram Handle: @taruntahiliani

With her passion for all things vintage, an Edwardian aesthetic, and romantic colours, Neeta Lulla is an award-winning designer known for her regal creations. She plays with muted hues, flowers, and pastels, and her love for vintage is evident in nearly every collection. Her outfits transport you back to the Renaissance while remaining distinctly Indian in design and weaving techniques. Her flagship store is located inside DLF Promenade in Delhi, which you should definitely check out if you appreciate that rustic-chic vibe.

Instagram Handle: @neeta_lulla

Over 20 years ago, Anita Dongre identified a gap in western wear for women and began building her empire with ready-to-wear contemporary pieces infused with an Indian touch. She has since established four brands under her name—Global Desi, Pink City, Grassroot, and her signature label, Anita Dongre. Her designs are crafted to evolve with trends and time, while maintaining a strong focus on quality and comfort. Dongre is committed to empowering local artisans and craftsmen and uplifting women through each of her business ventures.

Instagram Handle: @anitadongre

If anyone truly understands the art of monochrome, it's Rohit Bal, with every piece standing out in a surreal way. Greatly influenced by the architectural history of Delhi, Bal began his fashion journey with his brother before going independent after two years. He initially spent his early days designing costumes for game shows and TV programmes, but over time, he expanded his repertoire to include jewellery and furnishings. His works are defined by a deep appreciation for peacock and lotus symbolism.

Instagram Handle: @rohitbalofficial

Creating designs and silhouettes that reflect his deep love for poetry and art, Rahul Mishra embodies various art forms and folklore in his work. He has become a global ambassador and is recognised as one of the top Indian designers for Indian art forms and textiles. Recently, he launched his ready-to-wear line in collaboration with Reliance, producing couture pieces inspired by nature and India's cultural heritage.

Instagram Handle: @rahulmishra_7

Known for his innovative structures and love for ruffles, Gaurav Gupta's collections represent the perfect harmony of style, trends, and couture. If you’re seeking pieces that exude regality and high fashion, Gaurav Gupta's collection will surely surpass your expectations. He made his runway debut in 2004 and has transformed the look of the saree, making avant-garde clothing both commercial and accessible.

Instagram Handle: @gauravguptaofficial

With two decades of experience in contemporary design using Indian traditional weaves and textiles, Anamika Khanna is a Kolkata-based designer who has modernised clothing rooted in Indian heritage with her dhoti-style sarees and couture. Her designs retain an Indian essence while incorporating various aesthetics, including punk rock, boho, and pastels, resulting in ethereal silhouettes.

Instagram Handle: @anamikakhannaindia

This power couple has crafted one-of-a-kind contemporary lines rooted in Indian fashion, featuring a charming, spontaneous, and generous use of colours and embellishments. Their creations exude a whimsical quality while always showcasing Indian artistry at their core. If you're looking for outfits that perfectly blend Indian and Western styles, you need to check them out.

Instagram Handle: @pankajandnidhi

One cannot discuss couture without mentioning Abhinav Mishra! Known for his colourful, innovative, artistic, and accessible creations, this renowned fashion designer infuses contemporary glamour with an old-world charm. His aesthetic sensibilities set the trends, and his recent collaboration with one of our favourites, Neddledust, is sure to capture the festive spirit perfectly.

Instagram Handle: @abhinavmishra_

For anyone obsessed with Rajasthani prints and patterns, Punit Balana needs no introduction. For the uninitiated, Balana creates magic with traditional Jaipuri prints and motifs that look fantastically unreal. We recently admired his Couture Capsule, named Johri Bazaar, which featured stunning Bandhani prints and intricate threadwork. He truly understands the drape of his garments, making his creations flattering for all body types.

Instagram Handle: @punitbalanaofficial