The Indian wedding industry, a juggernaut of celebrations and economic activity, shows no signs of slowing down. Despite global economic headwinds, the market is projected to reach a staggering $130 billion, as per a recent Jefferies report. This makes it the second-largest industry in India, trailing only food and grocery.

The Jefferies report says, while the image of extravagant ‘Big Fat Indian Weddings’ persists, the industry is catering to a diverse range of budgets. Couples are spending an average of Rs 12.5 lakh ($15,000) on their weddings, with some opting for intimate luxury experiences and others prioritizing value.

Indian wedding wear market

Estimates vary slightly, but the Indian wedding wear market is pegged at a sizeable Rs 1,020 billion ($12.75 billion) by CRISIL Research (as of FY20). Technopak paints a broader picture, estimating the total Indian ethnic wear market at a staggering Rs 70,000 crore ($8.75 billion), with wedding wear forming a significant chunk.

The market is projected to witness steady growth. Business Research Insights forecasts a global wedding wear market CAGR of 4 per cent, reaching $79.26 billion by 2031. For the Indian market specifically, reports suggest a CAGR of 15-17 per cent for women's ethnic wear (a major component of wedding wear) between 2022 and 2025.

Meanwhile the Indian wedding wear market has witnessed interesting shifts in recent years. COVID-19 pandemic initially caused a slowdown, with 83 per cent manufacturers reporting no growth during the wedding season as per a CMAI survey in 2020. However, the market has bounced back with renewed vigor post-restrictions. Consumers are increasingly opting for lighter fabrics, fusion designs, and sustainable practices, reflecting a changing lifestyle.

Menswear growing steadily as women’s wear lead

In fact, the wedding wear market has undergone significant changes in recent years. As disposable incomes rise, especially amongst the middle class, spending on weddings, including elaborate attire has increased. Consumers too are becoming more brand conscious, seeking designer labels and high-quality outfits. Online platforms meanwhile have revolutionized accessibility, offering wider product ranges and convenience to a geographically diverse customer base. Design sensibilities too are evolving. Modern cuts, fusion wear, and sustainable fabrics are gaining traction alongside traditional styles. The wedding wear market can be segmented into three main categories:

Menswear: Though smaller than women’s wear, the menswear segment accounts for 15 per cent and is growing steadily. Sherwanis, kurtas, and Nehru jackets are popular choices, with a rising demand for personalized details and fusion styles.

Women’s wear: The dominant segment, accounts for 85 per cent of the market as per Technopak. Bridal lehengas, saris, and gowns are in high demand, with a growing preference for rental options and pre-owned outfits.

Kidswear: A relatively smaller segment, but witnessing increasing interest in designer wear for children participating in wedding festivities.

Cityscapes where does the market flourish

Wedding wear consumption varies as per city size. For example, Tier I cities and metros like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are major consumers due to higher disposable incomes and a larger presence of established brands. Tier II and III cities too are witnessing an increase in demand due to a growing middle class and increasing brand awareness through online channels.

Table: Wedding wear consumption

The Indian wedding wear market is traditionally dominated by unorganized players like tailors, local boutiques who hold an estimated 85 per cent market share. However, the branded segment is witnessing significant growth due to several factors. One major factor is the standardized quality and designs brands offer. Their consistent quality and trendy designs, appeal to brand-conscious consumers. No wonder, Amazon, Myntra major e-commerce platforms are expanding their wedding wear collections and offering rental options.

Moreover branded stores provide a curated shopping experience, unlike the traditional scattered market. For example, renowned designer label Sabyasachi specializes in opulent bridal lehengas and couture wear adorned by top Bollywood celebs for their wedding. Celebrity endorsements also play a part as popular figures endorsing brands elevate their appeal and reach a wider audience. For example, Manyavar, a leading menswear brand, known for its focus on heritage weaves and wedding sherwanis has made a mark with Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma as their brand face.

The Indian wedding industry is a complex ecosystem driven by tradition, evolving consumer preferences, and economic factors. While there might be adjustments in spending patterns, the overall growth trajectory remains positive. The industry's ability to adapt to changing needs and leverage technology for seamless planning will be crucial in its continued success.

Premium men’s and women’s apparel brand S&N by Shantnu Nikhil launched a new travel collection at its newly opened exclusive brand outlet at the Inorbit Mall in Hyderabad. For this campaign of this collection, the brand collaborated with the luxury resort Raffles Udaipur. Named, ‘Corbett’, the safari-style collection is the brand’s first linen range, designed for comfort during the monsoon season.

Shot on the 21-acre island resort, the campaign for this collection features a curated selection of accessories and highlights the influence of Indian landscapes on the collection. The Corbett line is now available across all brand outlets and online.

By incorporating elements of vintage Indian travel and blending them with contemporary designs, the Corbett Luxe collection aims to offer pieces that not only reflect elegance and sophistication but also capture the adventurous spirit inherent in every traveler. The serene and opulent backdrop of Raffles Udaipur perfectly complements our vision, making this collaboration a remarkable journey through luxury and nature, say designers Shantanu& Nikhil Mehra.

With sales increasing by 130 per cent compared to the previous fiscal, D2C fashion startup Snitch’s share in the men’s fashion e-commerce market has escalated to 2.4 per cent.

The brand has witnessed overwhelming growth in the past four years. Marked by numerous milestones, the brand’s journey so far reflects its commitment to excellence and innovation, says SiddharthDungarwal, Founder, Snitch.

Currently operating 12 stores in cities such as Vadodara, Pune, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Surat, and Ahmedabad, Snitch also sells products online through its website. The brand recently enhanced its offline retail presence by opening a flagship store in Pune’s Amanora Mall, marking its 12th store.

Founded in 2020 in Bengaluru, fashion and lifestyle brand Snitch sells 15 units per minute across online and retail channels, offering a diverse product portfolio that includes men’s clothing, shoes, perfumes, and sunglasses. The brand recently raised Rs. 110 crore in its series A funding round.

Looking ahead, Snitch plans to open 40 more stores by the end of this fiscal year, targeting major metro cities such as Mumbai and Delhi.

Flagship Company of the Aditya Birla Group, Grasim Industries was honored with the Sustainable Organisation 2024 trophy at the 3rd edition of the Times Now Global Sustainability Alliance – Sustainable Organisation 2024 event.

The award was received by Pavan Jain, Chief Financial Officer, Grasim Industries while Surya Valluri, Chief Sustainability Officer, accepted the certificate.

The Global Sustainability Alliance is a platform for global change-makers, individuals, and organisations who have championed sustainability. The 3rd edition of Times Now Sustainable Organisations 2024 aims to highlight and promote futuristic actions by sustainability leaders, celebrating their success stories, inspirations, and achievements in fostering responsible businesses and a greener future.

One of the largest market research companies operating in 90 markets with more than 20,000 professionals, Ipsos served as the research partner for identifying the Sustainable Organisations of India. Forty companies were shortlisted for the award following a strict criteria from 300 identified sustainable organisations and 40 companies.

Sustainable fashion brand Virgio has been recognised for its commitment to cruelty-free clothing by PETA, the world's largest animal rights organisation.

The brand’s dedication to ethical fashion has earned them the prestigious ‘PETA Approved Vegan’ certification. Amar Nagaram, Co-Founder and CEO, Virgio, says, the certification reflects the brand’s core values of ethics, transparency, and responsibility towards the environment and all its inhabitants. It's a major step forward in its mission to create eco-conscious fashion that respects animal welfare.

The fashion industry has long been criticised for its reliance on animal-derived materials like fur, leather, and wool, often obtained through unethical practices. Virgio is taking a stand against this by embracing sustainable and green practices. Their clothing utilizes vegan materials like natural fabrics, recycled materials, and plant-based alternatives.

The PETA certification signifies that Virgio's products are entirely free of animal-derived materials. PETA meticulously evaluated Virgio's supply chain, materials, and manufacturing processes to ensure they meet their stringent vegan standards.

In addition to womenswear, ethnic and fusion wear brand Suta has ventured into menswear with the launch of the ‘Adam Me’ collection. This line includes breezy, earthy-toned shirts that mirror the fusion style aesthetic of the brand's womenswear, all crafted from 100 per cent cotton.

Founded by Sujata and Taniya Biswas, Suta blends traditional craft techniques with modern, artisanal clothing and lifestyle goods. The brand's retail footprint includes stores in Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Delhi, Kochi, Kolkata, Thane, and Pune. Suta’s products are also available at various multi-brand stores such as Go Native, Chintz, Ladu, Anaarsakti, and The Common Good, among others. The brand recently launched a new brick-and-mortar store in Chennai. Located at The Croft, this outlet offers a range of dedicated product segments including kurta sets, dresses, viscose garments, sarees, and blouses.

Featuring the brand’s diverse collection of fusion-style jewelry designed to complement its apparel range, the boutique boasts a minimalist yet natural interior, highlighting Suta’s vibrant garments. The store launched with the brand’s latest collection, ‘Atrangi,’showcasing technicolor sarees with patterned borders suitable for both everyday and occasion wear.

Raymond has reappointed GautamHariSinghania as its Managing Director for another term of five years, effective from July 1, 2024.

This decision follows a recommendation by a proxy advisory firm for shareholders to vote against the reappointment of Chairman and Managing Director GautamSinghania. The firm has called for an independent investigation into accusations of domestic violence and misappropriation of funds raised by Singhania's estranged wife, Nawaz ModiSinghania. The advisory firm also recommended that both GautamSinghania and Nawaz ModiSinghania step down from the board of Raymond until the divorce-related issues are resolved and the investigation results are received.

Additionally, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has approved Raymond’s composite scheme of arrangement and restructuring. This involves the demerger of its lifestyle business and the amalgamation of its consumer trading arm, which will facilitate a more focused and streamlined corporate structure. The NCLT approval allows for the separation of Raymond and Raymond Lifestyle, with Ray Global Consumer Trading being integrated into the new structure.

For the quarter ending March 2024, Raymond reported an 18 per cent rise in consolidated profit after tax to Rs 229 crore as compared Rs 194 consolidated profit after tax recorded in the same quarter last year.

Inspired by the popular Netflix series Bridgerton, luxury womenswear brand Madame has launched a new capsule collection that fuses the elegance of Regency-era fashion with Madame's signature modern touch.

The collection caters to fans who adore the show's regal aesthetic. It includes embroidered dresses, empire waists, sparkling embellishments, and flowy silhouettes – all reimagined for the contemporary woman. From luxurious fabrics to statement corsets, each limited-edition piece exudes a sense of historical grandeur with a modern twist.

Ideal for parties, events and soirees, the collection boasts a range of A-line dresses in premium fabrics and delicate florals. It also offers t-shirts with gold-colored lettering and rhinestone accents for Gen-Z customers, allowing them to add a Bridgerton flair to their casual outfits. Even workwear gets a sophisticated upgrade with shirts featuring ornate buttons.

This collection seamlessly blends the elegance of the past with contemporary style, says ParikaRawal, Design Head, Madame. It allows customers to escape into the world of Bridgerton's aristocracy, without sacrificing the brand's modern identity. This launch reinforces Madame's commitment to providing its global audience with the latest fashion trends.

Having entered the Indian market as a distribution partner with Chogori India Retail in 2013, Columbia Sportswear plans to open 50 stores across the nation by 2024-end.

The brand recently opened a new store in the national capital of New Delhi. Located at Connaught Place, the new store offers a wide range of products, including accessories such as beanies, belts, gloves, sunglasses, socks, caps, hip packs, wallets, and tubular items. Additionally, the store houses footwear, sportswear, and outdoor apparel.

Ankur Bhatia, CEO, Chogori India Retail, says, the New Delhi store will help the brand make outdoor adventure accessible to all.

Based in Portland, Oregon, Columbia Sportswear is a global brand with a strong presence in the outdoor sportswear segment. In India, the brand aims to foster a trekking and hiking culture besides opening new stores.

To increase the company’s business to Rs 1,000 crore by 2027, ABFRL plans to open 300 new stores of its brand Reebok in India over the next three years.

As per a report by India Retailing, ABFRL recently expanded Rebook’s presence in South India by opening two new stores in Chennai. Located in Anna Nagar and Phoenix Markettcity, Valechery, these stores offer a variety of apparel, footwear, and accessories that cater to different sports and fitness activities.

ABFRL acquired the exclusive licensing and distribution rights to sell Reebok products in India and South Asia after it signed a long-term agreement with the brand’s owner, Authentic Brands Group (ABG), in 2021. The agreement allows ABFRL to sell Reebok products through various channels including company-branded outlets, wholesale, and online.

A part of the Mumbai-based Aditya Birla Group, ABFRL manages brands such as Louis Philippe, Van Heusen, Pantaloons, Allen Solly, and Peter England. Its international brand portfolio includes The Collective, Ralph Lauren, Hackett London, Ted Baker, Fred Perry, Forever 21, American Eagle, Reebok, and Galeries Lafayette. As of March 31, 2023, the company reported revenues of Rs. 12,418 crore and retail space spanning 10.8 million sq ft.

The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) proudly announces the upcoming Hyundai India Couture Week, in collaboration with Reliance Brands, from July 24 to July 31, 2024, at the Taj Palace, New Delhi. This event is set to be a grand celebration of Indian fashion, highlighting the union of tradition and modernity through exceptional craftsmanship.

Celebrating artisanal excellence

This year’s edition focuses on the rich cultural heritage of India, showcased through the intricate designs of the country's top couturiers. Fourteen renowned designers, including Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, Amit Aggarwal, and TarunTahiliani, will present collections that emphasize the artistry and handcrafting skills integral to Indian couture. Each designer's work will narrate stories that honor India’s cultural tapestry, blending traditional and contemporary elements.

FDCI's vision and commitment

Sunil Sethi, Chairman of FDCI, expressed his enthusiasm for the ongoing partnership with Hyundai and Reliance Brands. He highlighted that the event showcases the rich heritage and exceptional craftsmanship of Indian fashion. This edition of Couture Week aims to celebrate the visionary artistry of designers and emphasize the timeless beauty and cultural significance of handcrafted couture.

Hyundai's dedication to culture and creativity

TarunGarg, COO of Hyundai Motor India Limited, shared similar sentiments, highlighting Hyundai’s dedication to supporting artisans and promoting India's diverse cultural heritage. He emphasized that this partnership with ICW aligns with Hyundai’s vision of 'Progress for Humanity' and showcases the blend of Hyundai’s exceptional product design and engineering with the creativity of Indian fashion.

Reliance brands' support for Indian designers

JaspreetChandok, Group Vice President of Reliance Brands Ltd., emphasized the importance of the event in nurturing talent and advancing Indian couture. He noted that the event celebrates the rich tradition and contemporary evolution of Indian fashion, providing a platform for esteemed designers to showcase their exceptional craftsmanship.

A week of fashion extravaganza

The Hyundai India Couture Week 2024 promises an eight-day spectacle featuring the finest in Indian fashion. With a lineup of eminent designers and a commitment to celebrating both innovation and tradition, the event is set to inspire and set new trends in the fashion industry.