Making its debut in the capital city, American denim brand True Religion has launched its first store in Delhi. 

Located at Ambience Mall in Vasant Kunj, this 1,100-sq-ft store features the brand’s signature denim styles, as well as men's and women's apparel and accessories. The store's opening event included an appearance by Aman Gupta, Co-founder, Boat and prominent investor, along with fashion enthusiasts who explored True Religion’s latest collection, which combines premium denim with trendy casual wear designs.

True Religion has mastered the balance of style and comfort. Their graphic tees and hoodies complement the denim perfectly for a laid-back yet fashionable look, says Gupta.

The new store displays True Religion’s latest Spring/Summer 2025 collection featuring premium fabrics, signature stitching, and cuts designed to help the wearer stand out.

Founded in 2002 by Jeffrey Lubell and Kym Gold, the American denim label, True Religion is headquartered in California.

With the opening of this new store, True Religion introduces its iconic denim and premium collections to Delhi’s fashion-forward shoppers, adds Apoorv Sen, COO, Iconic Fashion.

Pernia's Pop-Up Shop plans to launch a new store in the Ismail Building in the Fort area of Mumbai.

Previously occupied by Zara, the 59,350 sq ft space is designed to elevate in-person luxury shopping experience by showcasing a significantly wider range of designer items under one roof.

Abhishek Agarwal, Founder, Purple Style Labs, which acquired Pernia's Pop-Up Shop in 2018, explains, the new store will feature nearly 5,000 pieces for customers to browse.

As a multi-brand retailer, the expansive space will allow Pernia's Pop-Up Shop to introduce a shop-in-shop concept, featuring curated designer sections. Previously, the retailer organized stock by rack due to limited space in its smaller stores, notes Agarwal. This store will utilize a floor-by-floor layout, making it easier for customers to find specific categories without having to navigate all five floors, he adds.

Pernia’s pop-up shop currently has stores at Kala Ghoda, Bandra and Juhu in Mumbai alongiwth Mehrauli in Delhi and Grosvenor Street in London. The brand has taken a very confident approach with this new store in Fort, says Agarwal. The experience it will offer of customer engagement and in-person shopping can never be replicated, he adds.

Signally a new era in customized tailoring in India, leader in premium menswear, Raymond has launched its flagship ‘Made to Measure’ store in Bengaluru.

Elevating the concept of personalized garments, this new store blends traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Offering customers an immersive journey into creating custom clothing, the store provides a luxurious environment for patrons to explore a vast selection of high-quality fabrics, from classic wool blends to modern textures. Expert stylists and master tailors at the store guide customers through the process, ensuring precise measurements and personalized design choices.

This service caters to professionals, entrepreneurs, and style enthusiasts who seek exclusive sartorial experiences. Customers can tailor every aspect of their garment, from fabric selection to intricate styling details, resulting in a perfect fit and finish.

The flagship store seamlessly blends Raymond's rich heritage with contemporary design aesthetics, meeting the evolving preferences of discerning customers. Whether for formal events, business attire, or sophisticated casual wear, Raymond Made to Measure offers limitless possibilities for creating a unique and sophisticated wardrobe.

The launch of this store highlights the brand's commitment to expanding its presence in the luxury menswear market. The store combines time-honored tailoring techniques with modern innovation, enabling Raymond to set new standards for craftsmanship and personalization, thus strengthening its position as a pioneer in bespoke tailoring. This store also marks a significant step in Raymond's journey to redefine the art of custom clothing.

To capitalize on the fabric’s growing popularity in summer, Raymond Lifestyle has launched a new digital campaign to promote its Raymond Linen range.

The campaign aims to strengthen Raymond's position as a leader in the linen market, promoting a lifestyle of mindful living through fashion. It positions the new linen collection as a must-have for those who value both style and comfort, emphasizing the fabric’s versatility and ease as temperatures rise.

Launched on YouTube, the campaign uses a visual narrative focusing on relaxation, connection, and personal expression to capture the essence of linen. Set against tranquil summer landscapes, the video showcases the collection's relaxed silhouettes, classic stripes, pastel hues, and detailed patterns, designed for a variety of occasions. Featuring lush forests, peaceful fishing spots, and serene walks, the imagery was carefully chosen to highlight linen's natural ease and timeless appeal.

Positioned as a premium option in the Indian menswear market, Raymond Linen aims to combine high-quality craftsmanship with understated luxury, catering to consumers seeking both style and breathability in warm weather, according to the brand. The new campaign is being rolled out across digital platforms, bringing Raymond Linen's summer-ready collection to a broader audience. Through this initiative, the brand continues to shape the evolving menswear scene, tapping into the increasing demand for breathable fabrics.

The rapid growth of quick commerce is disrupting urban retail, with 52 percent of physical store retailers reporting a decline in food, beverage, and confectionery sales, according to a PwC report. Personal care (47 percent) and household cleaning products (33 percent) are also seeing reduced sales.

Quick commerce, which delivers orders in 10 to 30 minutes, is reshaping consumer habits, particularly for frequently purchased goods. However, niche segments like childcare, beauty, and wellness remain largely unaffected, as customers prefer in-store shopping for these categories.

In contrast, retailers in tier 2 and 3 cities are less impacted by q-commerce’s expansion. High delivery costs and scattered demand make rapid delivery models less viable in these regions, allowing brick-and-mortar stores to thrive.

India’s retail market is projected to reach $1,892 billion by 2029-30, growing at 10.3 per cent CAGR, with e-commerce rising at 22.5 percent CAGR to $220 billion. Nearly 50 per cent of Indian consumers now favor a hybrid shopping model, blending online and offline purchases.

Dropshipping, the e-commerce model where retailers sell products without holding any inventory, has stealthily become a global phenomenon. It's a low-barrier-to-entry strategy that empowers entrepreneurs to build online businesses with minimal upfront investment. But how is this model impacting the global and, more specifically, the growing Indian e-commerce landscape, especially in the competitive fashion and apparel sector?

The global dropshipping juggernaut

Globally, dropshipping has witnessed explosive growth, the rise of platforms like Shopify, AliExpress, and SaleHoo has given it a boost. The global dropshipping market was estimated to be worth approximately $162.44 billion in 2023, with a projected CAGR of 23.4 per cent from 2024 to 2030, reveals to Grand View Research. This indicates a potential market size exceeding $700 billion by 2030.

The phenomenon has grown due to falling startup costs as there is no need for warehousing or inventory management. The flexibility and scalability is immense as it’s easy to expand product offerings and reach new markets. Add to it the location independence. Businesses can be run from anywhere with an internet connection.

In fact, numerous successful online stores have been built on the dropshipping model, often specializing in niche markets. Many such stores leverage social media marketing to great effect. However, there are challenges in this business as reliance on third-party suppliers can lead to delays with longer shipping times. Quality control issues could arise due to lack of direct oversight over product quality. Dependence on external suppliers for inventory and fulfilment is an unsaid issue and competition could be intense in this field.

India's nascent dropshipping scene

As the Indian e-commerce market grows, dropshipping is gaining traction. Platforms like Flipkart and Amazon India have built consumer trust, paving the way for D2C and dropshipping companies.

As per Bain & Company, India's e-commerce market is projected to reach $350 billion by 2030. With this rapid growth, dropshipping is expected to have a significant share. According to Anand Ramanathan, Partner and Consumer Industry Leader, Deloitte India, the Indian dropshipping market, currently valued at approximately $1 billion, is expected to reach $5 billion by 2028, growing at an annual rate of 25 per cent.

Kapil Makhija, MD and CEO of Unicommerce eSolutions, highlights that dropshipping currently constitutes over half of e-commerce shipments in India, and he expects this share to grow to 65 per cent in the next five years. Platforms like Shopify and local suppliers are facilitating the growth of dropshipping businesses. The rise in dropship model can largely be attributed to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Challenges to dropshipping in India

Logistics and infrastructure is the biggest challenge particularly in rural areas. The building trust with customers is crucial in India, where online shopping is still evolving. About 30n per cent of dropshippers have reported problems with product quality and delivery times.

Competitive pricing is tough in India, as profit margins for dropshippers can be as low as 10-20 per cent. Logistics and shipping delays are common, affecting around 25 per cent orders. The preference for cash on delivery (COD), which accounts for 65n per cent of transactions, complicates payment processes. And most importantly finding reliable local suppliers is a major bug bear.

Emerging trends

A major trend is the integration of social commerce. Many Indian dropshippers are using platforms like Instagram and Facebook to sell goods. Many entrepreneurs are focusing on selling regional handicrafts and products. Dropshipping has also given a push to the D2C market in India, which has been seeing rapid growth in the past five years. The D2C market in India, valued at approximately $6-8 billion currently, holds 8-10 per cent share of the e-commerce market. What’s more starting a dropshipping business in India is affordable, with initial costs typically ranging between Rs 5,000 and Rs 50,000.

The fashion and apparel sector is particularly well-suited for dropshipping. Its vast product range, ever-changing trends, and demand for niche items make it ideal for this model.

Globally dropshipping has democratized fashion e-commerce, allowing small businesses to compete with established brands. It has enabled the rise of fast fashion and niche fashion brands that cater to specific tastes. It also gives oe the ability to test new fashion trends quickly, by listing products without large inventory commitments.

Closer home, India's diverse textile and apparel industry offers immense potential for dropshipping businesses. Entrepreneurs are leveraging dropshipping to sell traditional Indian wear, contemporary fashion, and accessories. In fact, the rise of social media influencers is driving demand for specific fashion items, creating opportunities for dropshippers.

Many small regional clothing producers are now able to sell their products on a national scale. As Pratik Mukherjee, Business Head-Beauty, House of Masaba, says, dropshipping has become an important practice in a high AOV (average order value) business or premium products, like fashion, and bridal products, when the products range between Rs 5,000 and Rs 1 lakh and above.

Many small Indian online stores are specializing in selling customized apparel, such as printed T-shirts or personalized accessories, through dropshipping. These stores often leverage social media marketing to reach their target audience. Regional textile products are also being sold through dropshipping, allowing artisans and small businesses to reach a wider customer base. The rise of online boutiques that curate niche fashion items from various suppliers, are leveraging dropshipping to offer a unique selection.

As technology continues to advance and e-commerce evolves, dropshipping is likely to become even more prevalent. The integration of AI, automation, and improved logistics will further streamline the process. Automation, demand forecasting, and data analytics are helping manage the stock at the dropshipper. However, businesses must prioritize customer satisfaction, quality control, and supplier reliability to thrive in this competitive landscape. In India, overcoming logistical hurdles and building trust will be crucial for the continued growth of dropshipping. As the Indian market matures, it is expected that more local suppliers will come online, and that the quality of service will increase.

A testament to the brand's commitment to ‘Effortless Style for Modern Men & Women, Sammyukk has unveiled its highly anticipated Summer 2025 Collection, A masterful blend of classic artistry and historical inspiration, the collection is designed to resonate with the discerning individual seeking sophistication with a contemporary edge.

Inspired by a rich tapestry of historical periods, the collection seamlessly weaves elements from the Art Nouveau era, Renaissance paintings, ancient Egyptian pharaohs, and the iconic Tudor Rose. This fusion results in a unique aesthetic, where timeless elegance meets modern sensibility.

Each piece within the collection is infused with artistic and cultural significance. For instance, The Renaissance Crown Embroidered Pleated Shirt pays a tribute to the Renaissance Roman and Greek art, combining the opulence of traditional design with modern refinement. Similarly, inspired by the grandeur of ancient Egyptian pharaohs, the Pleated Collar Embroidered Slim-Fit Shirt offers a sleek, tailored look adorned with intricate embroidery, conveying both power and sophistication.

A tribute to the legendary Cleopatra and the rich legacy of ancient Egypt, both the Renaissance Crown Embroidered Pleated Shirt and the Pleated Collar Embroidered Shirt showcase delicate details evoking the regal beauty of this iconic queen. With their rich pleating and meticulous embroidery, these pieces embody the strength and beauty of Egypt's most celebrated ruler.

A standout piece within the collection is the Tudor Rose-styled Pleated Floral 3D Embroidered Shirt, featuring England's traditional floral heraldic symbol. Representing strength and unity, this shirt is beautifully adorned with 3D floral designs, adding depth and dimension to the collection. The Floral Vine 3D Embroidered Short Dress similarly celebrates the beauty of Renaissance floral motifs, translating the elegance of bygone eras into modern style with exquisite floral vine embroidery that adds a crisp, feminine touch.

Embodying the essence of timeless artistry, the Summer 2025 Collection offers pieces tht transcend time, merging history with style to offer something unique and special for the brand’s customers, says Samiha Jha, Director and Founder, Sammyukk.

Designed for those who appreciate the fusion of historical artistry and modern fashion, the Sammyukk Summer 2025 Collection offers garments featuring luxurious details, exceptional craftsmanship, and classic design motifs.

A 100-year-old bespoke suiting brand, PN Rao plans to expand its presence across the country by taking the franchisee route, note Ketan Pishe and Naveen Pishe, Partners, PN Rao.

The brand currently operates eight company-owned company-operated stores. Of these, five are located in Bengaluru, two are in Chennai, and one store is situated in Hyderabad. By this fiscal year-end, the brand plans to open four additional stores via a franchisee route and also one company-owned and company-operated luxury store in Bengaluru in the coming financial year.

In Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad, the brand plans to adopt the FOCO model, which will also be promoted in other locations. The average stores that the brand plans to open via the franchisee route will span 2,500 -3,000 sq in metros and Tier I cities and 1,500 sq in Tier II and beyond, add, Ketan and Naveen Pishe.

The investment in FOFO model will be around Rs 1.2 crore and the ROI is expected in 2.5 - 3 years, they further add.

Currently operating in the ready-to-wear, fabric and tailoring categories, the brand will initial open stores in South India to penetrate into the market further.

Currently, the brand’s manufacturing unit spans across 1.5 acre and it plans to build another unit once the current unit gets closer to 80-90 per cent capacity utilization.

Going ahead, the brand also plans to build its online presence by offering bespoke services. It currently has an EBITDA profitability of 11-15 per cent and will close this fiscal with Rs 65 crore in revenue. It aims to close FY 26 with revenues worth Rs 75 crore. 

A direct-to-consumer men’s clothing and accessories brand, The Bear House, which secured a Rs 30 million (approximately $345,601) investment on the popular television show Shark Tank India, plans to use this capital to expand its operations to Tier II and III cities of India

Secured from Namita Thapar, Executive Director, Emcure Pharmaceuticals, the investment deal consists of Rs 10 million for a 1 per cent equity stake, and an additional Rs 20 million as debt, valuing the company at Rs 1 billion (Rs 100 crore).  Thapar’s expertise and guidance will prove invaluable in taking The Bear House to the next level, says Harsh Somaiya, Co-founder.

The Bear House has already established a physical retail presence in major metropolitan areas like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. The brand also maintains a strong online presence by selling its products on major e-commerce platforms including Myntra, Flipkart, Ajio, Tata Cliq, Nykaa, and Amazon. The brand aims to exceed Rs 1.4 billion (Rs 140 crore) in net revenue this year.  

Fueled by a $1million investment to open 16 physical stores, Bengaluru-based fashion-tech brand, Virgio is embarking on a significant expansion.

The brand plans to open high-street stores in Ahmedabad, Surat, Mumbai, and Delhi by June 2025. Averaging 1,500-1,600 sq. ft, these stores will follow the model of Virgio's successful M5 Mall store in Bengaluru. Additionally, Virgio plans to establish two international stores in Dubai by the end of 2025.

Expecting to close FY25 with Rs 30 crore in revenue, Virgio projects its revenues will rise 4-5 fold in FY26. The brand aims to achieve revenues of Rs 120-150 crore in FY26.

The company also plans to launch a men's wear segment online by June.  Emphasizing on its efficient production process, Virgio is adding two new factories in Gurgaon, bringing its total to nine. The company aims to increase its machine count from 300 to 1,500 by FY26, boosting weekly production.

Virgio's approach to unsold inventory is a key differentiator. It retains stock for only 45 days, significantly less than the industry average of 160 days. Amar Nagaram, CEO, formerly engaged with Myntra is determined to avoid inventory challenges by focusing on efficient production and demand management.

Virgio aims to become synonymous with trendy, high-quality, and sustainable fashion. The company believes sustainability should be accessible to the masses and seeks to drive industry transformation. Backed by investors like Accel and Prosus, Virgio plans to expand its Bengaluru store footprint and currently delivers to 9,000 pincodes across India.