The Tata Group plans to either buy a potential stake or acquire the ethnic apparel business of Fabindia. The acquisition may be valued lower than the $2.5 billion as estimated during Fabindia's abandoned initial public offering.

If the deal proceeds, it could become one of the largest transactions in the segment, following Aditya Birla Fashion Retail's acquisition of a controlling stake in TCNS Clothing last year. The acquisition would strategically complement the existing portfolio of the Tatas in the ethnic wear market, with Trent, their retail arm, already offering apparel under brands like Westside, Zudio, and Utsa.

Fabindia's dedication to traditional techniques and sustainably sourced, hand-woven fabrics aligns well with the ethos of the Tata Group. Known for its ethnic products crafted by artisans from rural India, the company was founded in 1960 by John Bissell, an American who came to India to work with the Ford Foundation.

The brand is valued at over Rs. 17,000 crore, and has over 400 stores across India and abroad. Initially starting as a small export company selling handmade textiles and home furnishings to foreign buyers, Fabindia shifted its focus to the domestic market in the 1970s and began opening retail stores in major Indian cities. The brand has significantly boosted rural employment in Indian villages.

Adhering to traditional Indian methods and materials in its products, Fabindia has collaborated closely with local artisans to craft high-quality textiles, clothing, and home decorations that showcase India's cultural richness. Over time, the brand has expanded its range to include a diverse array of products such as clothing, accessories, beauty items, and organic foods.

With a presence in international markets like the United States, Singapore, and Dubai, Fabindia has grown significantly. A key factor responsible for the brand’s success has been its strong commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. The company ensures fair wages and safe working conditions for its suppliers and prioritises eco-friendly materials and packaging.

Clovia has appointed former Miss World and rising Bollywood star Manushi Chhillar as its newest brand ambassador. A significant milestone for Clovia, this collaboration aims to foster relatable conversations and celebrate the essence of womanhood, resonating with audiences across the country.

Chhillar takes center stage in Clovia's latest national TV advertising campaign titled 'Coffee to Club with Clovia.' The renowned actress will represent the brand in an extensive campaign that spans Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising, digital media, and television.

The TV commercial (TVC) centers on the concept of Clovia as a supportive companion for women through life's various adventures and intimate moments, akin to a trusted friend. The storyline follows Manushi Chhillar’s authentic interactions with her friend, showcasing her spontaneous and adventurous nature as she navigates her daily plans.

From casual coffee outings to glamorous evenings and heartfelt conversations at home, the TVC beautifully captures the essence of everyday life, highlighting friendships and challenges. The partnership between Chhillar and Clovia symbolises a shared commitment to the values of joy, independence, and resilience – qualities that define the essence of a Clovia Girl.

Chillar’s self-made, ambitious, and hardworking persona naturally embodies the spirit of a Clovia Girl. Her journey from medicine to fashion and acting mirrors Clovia's evolution as a brand dedicated to empowering women.

Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd (ABFRL) plans to separate the business of Madura Fashion & Lifestyle from its portfolio and spin it into an independent listed company.

The split will enable ABFRL to focus on its value retail, ethnic wear, luxury brands, and digital businesses. The company will be able to streamline its operations and focus on different areas of fashion. It will also be able to raise capital for investment in future growth and increase value for shareholders.

On the other hand, the new company will include popular clothing brands like Louis Philippe, Van Heusen, Allen Solly & Peter England, as well as American Eagle, Forever 21, Reebok, and Van Heusen innerwear. It will have a strong financial foundation and be able to grow on its own.

Renowned fashion and lifestyle brand, Iconic has named Open Doors Now (ODN) Digital Services as its new e-commerce creative and content partner. The brands collaboration with ODN extends to its in-house brand and a selection of prestigious international luxury brands such as Gant, True Religion, Just Cavalli, DKNY, Antony Morato, Elle, Lindbergh, and Brunn & Stengade.

Ujjawal Kothari, Assistant Vice President - E-commerce and Social Media, Iconic, states, ODN's involvement would expedite the launch of products and enhance the shopping experience for customers. Kothari emphasised the importance of delivering accurate, informative, and visually appealing content, aligning with the brand's ethos.

ODN's role encompasses the creation and deployment of comprehensive e-commerce product detail page (PDP) content for Iconic. This involves conceptualising and executing e-commerce catalogue shoots, crafting search-friendly and optimized product descriptions, launching listings on various online marketplaces, and ensuring consistent content deployment across channels.
Narinder Mahajan, Co-founder, ODN, adds, the company is dedicated to showcasing each brand's unique identity while amplifying their online presence.

For Iconic, it focuses on maximising sales and engagement through content strategy and the creation of compelling commerce content.

Operating in fashion, innovation, and lifestyle segments, Iconic serves its customers through an e-commerce platform and a network of over 25 retail outlets across various cities, including Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Bhubaneshwar, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Ludhiana, and Mumbai.

Established in 2015, ODN collaborates with more than 500 brands, including industry giants like Amazon, Flipkart, Nykaa, Myntra, Tata Cliq, as well as renowned names such as Fossil, United Colors of Benetton, Duroflex, and TTK Prestige.

Launched by fashion and lifestyle retailer, Shoppers Stop, the ‘First Citizen Club’ rewards program has reached a major milestone of over 10 million members. The company plans to further enhance the customer experience through targeted customer engagement strategies.
Swetal Basu, Customer Care Associate and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Shoppers Stop, says this achievement reflects the trust and loyalty that customers have in the retailer.
To commemorate this milestone, Shoppers Stop is offering its First Citizen Club members exciting opportunities such as lucky draws and scratch cards, along with in-store entertainment like selfie booths, free makeovers, and exclusive brand offers..
Described by Shoppers Stop as ‘the country’s longest running paid loyalty program,’ the First Citizen Club provides members with various benefits and discounts. These include priority access to sales and new collections, birthday offers, exclusive event invitations, and the ‘Personal Shopper’ service.

Intensifying its commitment to sustainability, esteemed premium accessories and leather goods brand Nappa Dori has launched a new eco-conscious range of apple leather accessories, available exclusively through online shopping channels.

Crafted from apple pomace, this range transforms nature's bounty into timeless accessories that seamlessly blend elegance with conscious design, ushering in a new era of eco-luxury-style that champions both personal well-being and environmental stewardship.

Setting a new standard for ethical fashion, the new range features plant-based leather. One of the apple leather products in the range includes a tan pouch adorned with a robust zip and adjustable strap, exemplifying Nappa Dori's dedication to both style and sustainability.

This expansion marks a significant milestone for Nappa Dori, which introduced a range of utilitarian apparels for men and women earlier this year. Since its launch as a leather accessories brand in New Delhi in 2010, Nappa Dori has since diversified its offerings, encompassing luggage, homeware, footwear, and an array of lifestyle goods. With retail outlets spanning India, the UK, and Dubai, alongside its thriving e-commerce platform, the brand has established a global presence.

Founded by Gautam Sinha, a graduate of the National Institute of Fashion Technology, Nappa Dori is driven by a mission to provide functional and timeless products tailored for the demands of modern life.

India's luxury market is experiencing a meteoric rise, with a growing affluent population, shift in consumer preferences, burgeoning young population with a penchant for luxury and increasing influence of digital platforms. This report explores the different segments within this dynamic market: traditional luxury, accessible luxury, and the flourishing presence of homegrown brands.
The rise and rise of luxury
As per Euromonitor International, India's luxury market is expected to reach Rs 82,186 crore by 2027, up from Rs 53,561 crore in 2022. Bain & Company forecasts an even more dramatic increase, with the market potentially reaching $200 billion by 2030, a 3.5-fold expansion propelled by a younger demographic, an expanding upper-middle class and a growing appetite for premium experiences. A Credit Suisse and UBS reports predicts 69 per cent growth in the number of millionaires in India between 2022 and 2027.
Luxury brands are actively establishing a physical presence in India. CBRE reports a 170 per cent year-on-year growth in leasing activity by luxury brands in 2023, with high streets (45 per cent) leading the way, followed by malls (40 per cent). Exclusive high-end malls like Jio World Plaza in Mumbai are further attracting international brands. This trend is likely to continue, with brands like Brioni, Roberto Cavalli, and Dunhill expected to enter the market in 2024.
Meanwhile, e-commerce platforms are playing a crucial role in expanding accessibility. The rise of online retailers like Ajio Luxe is creating a space for accessible and premium brands to reach a wider audience. They are offering a curated selection of luxury and ‘accessible luxury’ brands, reaching consumers beyond major metros.
Growing demand for accessible luxury
Boston Consulting Group India forecasts double-digit growth in the accessible luxury segment over the next five years. A significant segment is emerging between the mass market and traditional luxury - accessible luxury or bridge-to-luxury. This caters to aspirational consumers with growing incomes who seek quality and design without the exorbitant price tags. Brands like Sandro, Maje, and Tory Burch are tapping into this segment, offering a premium experience at a more accessible price point. As the market grows, Indian fashion designers and established brands are launching diffusion lines and contemporary collections that cater to the evolving tastes of domestic consumers. These brands offer a unique blend of Indian heritage and global sensibilities, posing serious competition to international players. Homegrown brands like Pero and Dhruv Kapoor are carving their niche in the accessible luxury space, offering a unique blend of Indian heritage and contemporary design aesthetics. Designers like Rahul Mishra are showcasing their collections at international fashion weeks and launching diffusion lines at accessible price points. These brands resonate with Indian consumers by offering designs that cater to local tastes and body types. Moreover, Indian designers emphasize personalized experiences and storytelling to differentiate themselves and build loyal customer bases.
Future outlook
The Indian luxury market presents a compelling opportunity for brands across the spectrum. Here are some key trends to watch:
Evolving consumer preferences: Consumers are moving away from logo-heavy pieces towards more sophisticated and individualistic styles. This creates space for new players offering unique pieces that cater to local tastes and body types.
Rise of occasion wear: While traditional occasion wear remains a significant driver of sales, there's growing potential for premium everyday wear catering to informal social gatherings.
Technology as an enabler: Artificial intelligence can personalize shopping experiences, optimize supply chains, and enhance customer satisfaction for luxury brands.
Complementary coexistence: The influx of international accessible luxury brands is not expected to cannibalize the market share of established luxury players or homegrown brands. Instead, it caters to a different segment and offers variety to consumers.
Personalization is key: Consumers are seeking a deeper connection with brands. Local players like Rahul Mishra, with his lower-priced ready-to-wear line AFEW, emphasize storytelling and service to build brand loyalty.
The future of India's luxury market looks bright. Rising disposable incomes, a growing young population with a penchant for premium experiences, and the increasing adoption of technology like AI will continue to propel this sector forward. To thrive in this competitive landscape, brands, both international and domestic, will need to adapt to evolving consumer preferences, leverage technology for personalization, and offer exceptional experiences that go beyond the product itself.

Owned by Bagzone Lifestyle, renowned fashion brand, Lavie has widened its retail network by inaugurating its 10th exclusive retail outlet within the Aero Mall in Pune.

The store boasts an extensive array of offerings, catering to every facet of contemporary living. It retails everything from elegant handbags to versatile sling bags, from sophisticated tote bags to practical laptop carriers, and from trendy backpacks to accessories.

In a strategic move to diversify its product portfolio and cater to the evolving tastes of its clientele, Lavie forayed into the watches category in November 2023. The brand offers a range of exquisitely crafted watches, thoughtfully curated for the modern woman.

Founded in 2010 by Ayush and Shobha Tainwala, the brand Lavie has, since its inception, seamlessly blended style with functionality to resonate with fashion-forward individuals across the nation. Expanding beyond its brick-and-mortar presence, Lavie has carved a significant niche in the digital realm, harnessing the power of its user-friendly website and prominent e-commerce platforms to reach a wider audience.

The creative force behind Lavie's success story, Bagzone Lifestyle is headquartered in Mumbai. In addition to Lavie, the company boasts an impressive portfolio of brands, including Fé Lavie, a coveted name in the realm of footwear, and Lavie Sport, a burgeoning label synonymous with athleisure chic.

Encompassing a wide range of products from personal luxury goods to home decor, the luxury goods market in India is poised for remarkable growth according to Bain & Co, a consulting major.

Projections suggest that by 2030, the market could soar to a staggering $90 billion. Within this landscape, personal luxury goods alone constitute a $4 billion market.

A significant driver of this growth would be India’s rising affluent population, says Bain & Co. According to the analyst, the number of high net worth individuals (HNIs) with assets worth at least $1 million is expected to double by 2027, reaching 16.5 lakh, while the count of ultra-high net worth individuals (UHNIs) with assets of $30 million or more is expected to exceed 19,000.

Some of the notable developments in India’s luxury fashion sector include Dior's iconic fashion show at Mumbai's Gateway of India, marking a significant inclusion of India in its global calendar. Renowned designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee also opened his flagship store in Mumbai besides launching a jewelry boutique in Hyderabad. His collaborations with international brands such as Estee Lauder and Morgenthal Frederics have further solidified his global presence.

Recognising India's growing importance in the luxury fashion market, organizations like the IndoFrench Chamber of Commerce & Industry (IFCCI) have initiated efforts to facilitate collaboration between foreign luxury brands and Indian craftsmanship. Indian designers like Rahul Mishra and Gaurav Gupta are gaining prominence on global platforms like the Paris Fashion Week, showcasing the country's rich creative talent.

However, challenges persist, notably the lack of quality retail space hindering the expansion plans of luxury brands. Despite this, Pushpa Bector, Senior Executive Director, DLF Retail, notes significant growth in segments such as high-end fashion and jewelry in 2023. Brands are adapting by aligning pricing structures and diversifying product offerings to resonate with Indian consumers.

The momentum from 2023 is expected to drive further expansion of these luxury brands in 2024. Brands are anticipated to refine their strategies to cater to the evolving preferences of the Indian market, setting the stage for continued innovation and growth in the luxury landscape.

The department store chain owned by Landmark Group, Lifestyle aims to establish 50 new stores across India within the next four years.

The brand recently opened its 111th store on the Citylight Main Road in Surat. Covering 22,800 sq ft, this store marks the company's second store in the city and its 23rd in the Western region.

Vivek Thilakan, Senior Vice President, Operations (West), Lifestyle International says, the company sees Surat as a burgeoning and promising market for fashion retail.

The new store introduces self-checkout facilities and offers an omnichannel experience with services like 'click and collect,' enabling customers to order online and pick up their purchases from any Lifestyle store.

In the upcoming financial year, Lifestyle aims to establish 4-5 additional stores in Gujarat and Maharashtra, targeting both new locations and untapped areas within existing cities.

Recently, the retailer opened its 110th store at Raipur City Center Pandri Mall, Chhattisgarh. This marked the 11th outlet in Central India and the second in Raipur within the fiscal year 2024.

Renowned for its expansive offerings, Lifestyle encompassing apparel, footwear, children’s wear, toys, furniture, home furnishings, and personal grooming products. The brand showcases over 350 national and international labels, including popular names like Louis Philippe, Van Heusen, Arrow, Nike, Adidas, Levis, Tommy Hilfiger, and Swatch, etc.