All Stories

V2 Retail expands retail network in India’s smaller cities

A value-focused fashion and lifestyle company, V2 Retail has expanded its physical store network in smaller cities across India, opening new locations in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh;  Dhanbad, Jharkhand; and Jamalpur, Bihar, bringing their total store count to over 185.

Located at Janakpuri Seal Chauraha, the store in Bareilly offers over 5,000 styles for men, women, and children, and launched with special discounts for shoppers. V2 Retail's new in Dhanbad store is situated in Central Plaza, while the Jamalpur outlet is located in Chhoti Daulatpur.

In the previous month-end, V2 Retail surpassed the milestone of 175-stores as it opened stores in cities like Dehradun, Chhindwara, Haveri, Rupnagar, Narsinghpur, Hardoi, and Katni. To reach new customer groups, V2 Retail continues to expand its brick-and-mortar network.

Besides offering a mix of traditional Indian and modern Western fashion for the entire family, the V2 Retail stores also retail homeware, accessories, footwear, and gift items, primarily serving customers in smaller cities who are looking for affordable and trendy products.

V2 Retail expands retail network in India’s smaller cities

FDCI, RPGS Lifestyle Media to jointly organize FDCI Manifest Wedding Weekend

The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) and Manifest by RPSG Lifestyle Media will jointly organize the 2025 FDCI Manifest Wedding Weekend from August 2-3, 2025 in New Delhi. The event will showcase a wide variety of new couture, jewelry, and luxury wedding collections.

Gathering top designers, jewelers, and accessory brands, the event will provide a curated experience combining traditional styles with modern trends. The platform will function as a comprehensive destination for wedding fashion, giving industry professionals and consumers access to high-end products.

According to Sunil Sethi, Chairman, FDCI, says, the event not only sets the standard for luxury weddings but also celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship that define Indian couture.

Beyond the fashion shows, the event intends to serve as a networking hub for industry leaders, giving brands a chance to connect with other professionals.

Reflecting a shared vision to redefine the wedding scene in India, the company’s collaboration with FDCI aims to offer an elevated and curated platform for the confluence of timeless tradition with modern luxury, adds Avarna Jain, Chairperson, RPSG Lifestyle Media.

Tracing the evolution of socks industry in India with Supersox

In the dynamic realm of fashion, socks, a once-humble item is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Spearheading this evolution is Supersox, a brand under Super Industries that redefines the very perception of socks, elevating them from mere commodities to essential fashion accessories.

A dynamic entrepreneur with a keen eye for market trends and a passion for innovation, Harsh Saraf, Co-founder, Supersox, shares his insights on this evolving sock market at IntimAsia 2025, illustrating how this everyday item is stepping into the spotlight as a statement piece.

Fashion Guru

A fundamental shift in perception

For decades, socks were relegated to the status of a basic commodity, serving a purely functional purpose. However, marking a significant shift in recent years, socks are no longer just a commodity; they are becoming a fashion statement, asserts Saraf. Going beyond mere aesthetics, this transformation reflects a broader shift in consumer behavior and expectations.

Brands like Supersox are actively educating consumers about the crucial role socks play in completing a wardrobe. Supersox educates customers on the importance of socks as an integral part of their wardrobe, emphasizes Saraf.

Join our group

Emerging trends shaping the future

As the socks market expands, several key trends are driving its growth. Sustainability is a major focus, with a growing segment of consumers seeking eco-friendly options. Sustainability is something that niche customers are now looking for, and that audience is growing, notes Saraf.

Additionally, performance socks designed for specific sports, such as skiing and football, are gaining popularity, catering to those who prioritize both functionality and style.

The color palette of socks is also undergoing a vibrant expansion. Gone are the days of basic white or black; bold colors and patterns are now in vogue. There is growing demand for new colors, with neon and vibrant designs being accepted as fashion accessories, observes Saraf, highlighting the trend towards more expressive choices in sock fashion.

Join our community

Navigating the evolving retail Landscape

The retail environment for socks is also undergoing a major shift. While traditional brick-and-mortar stores still account for a significant portion of sales, the rise of quick commerce and online shopping is undeniable. Acknowledging this dynamic, Saraf states, quick commerce is growing very fast in India. It's not something that any brand can ignore.

Supersox has adapted to this changing landscape by establishing a strong presence across various online platforms, including Zepto, Blinkit, Amazon, Myntra, and Flipkart. Currently, the brand’s online sales are growing at about 100 per cent Y-o-Y, reveals Saraf, highlighting the brand's success in navigating the digital marketplace. This adaptability is crucial as consumers increasingly turn to online shopping for convenience and variety.

Manufacturing and global ambitions

When discussing the manufacturing landscape, Saraf expresses confidence in India's capabilities. He believes, the country possesses the necessary infrastructure, machinery, and skilled workforce to compete on a global scale. Many large sock brands are manufacturing for leading brands across the world, he states, underscoring India's potential as a global export hub for socks.

As the sock industry in India continues to evolve, driven by changing consumer preferences and innovative retail strategies, Supersox stands as a testament to the potential of this once-overlooked accessory. Saraf's insights reveal a dynamic market that embraces not ust fashion but also sustainability and performance. With the right approach, socks are poised to become a staple in every wardrobe, transcending their traditional role and redefining what it means to be fashionable.

Visit for more

Supersox

Shoppers Stop’s SSBeauty launches first exclusive fragrance store in Bengaluru

SSBeauty by Shoppers Stop has launched its first fragrance-exclusive store at Nexus Mall, Koramangala, Bengaluru, redefining the luxury perfume shopping experience.

This new store is designed as a sensory haven, offering a curated selection of luxury, niche, and designer fragrances from top international and Indian brands. Customers can explore scents through interactive profiling and sampling stations, guided by expert consultants to find their signature fragrance.

Biju Kassim, Customer Care Associate and CEO, Beauty at Shoppers Stop, stated, "With this standalone fragrance store, we are elevating our commitment to premium beauty retail. Bengaluru, a dynamic and fashion-forward market, is the perfect location for this concept. We aim to create a destination where customers can immerse themselves in the art of perfumery."

SSBeauty by Shoppers Stop features iconic perfume brands, including Tom Ford, Gucci, Armani, YSL, Prada, Versace, Ralph Lauren, and more. From timeless classics to modern artisanal blends, the store caters to both seasoned connoisseurs and first-time buyers.

This launch marks a strategic expansion, with plans for more fragrance-exclusive stores in the future. SSBeauty by Shoppers Stop aims to become Bengaluru’s go-to destination for premium perfumes, celebrating individuality and self-expression through scent

Shoppers Stop’s SSBeauty launches first exclusive fragrance store in Bengaluru

Daughter of Kumar Vishvas shines in handcrafted 'Absoluto' saree at her star-studded wedding reception

Famous poet and former politician Kumar Vishvas hosted a grand wedding reception for his daughter, Agrata Sharmma, after her wedding to businessman Pavitra Khandelwal on March 2, 2025.

Fashion Guru

The event saw top personalities, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chirag Paswan, B Praak, and Shailesh Lodha.

Agrata stunned in a handcrafted royal-blue embroidered saree by Absoluto, paired with gold jewelry and a statement necklace.

Join our group

The groom looked dapper in a black bandhgala.

The celebration followed their lavish three-day destination wedding at The Leela Palace, Udaipur, attended by 200 guests.

Join our community

The festivities featured performances by Sonu Nigam, Kailash Kher, and Sagar Bhatia.

PM Modi, dressed in his signature white kurta-pyjama and Nehru jacket, was personally escorted by Kumar Vishvas.

The intimate yet opulent affair was a perfect blend of tradition and grandeur, leaving guests mesmerized.

Visit for more

 

KumarVishvas

Flying Machine launches unisex collection with digital creator Orry

Flying Machine has launched an exclusive ‘Orry x Flying Machine’ capsule collection in partnership with digital creator Orry. Inspired by Korean and Japanese fashion, this unisex range is available in select Flying Machine, Lifestyle, and Shoppers Stop stores across India. The collection brings together oversized fits and androgynous styles, reflecting the youthful, edgy aesthetics of both Flying Machine and Orry.

Shailesh Chaturvedi, CEO and Managing Director, Arvind Fashions, owner of Flying Machine, says, both Flying Machine and Orry share an appreciation for the bold, oversized, and androgynous elements found in Korean and Japanese fashion. Orry’s style aligns seamlessly with Flying Machine’s denim expertise, and this limited-edition capsule lets them express their individuality.

The collection features eye-catching phrases like ‘L8R H8R’ and ‘Can I live,’ emblazoned on streetwear-inspired pieces that cater to Gen Z. In addition to Flying Machine’s signature denim, the capsule includes vests, caps, bucket hats, jorts, parachute pants, and t-shirts, offering a fresh, playful take on street fashion.

Adhering to Korean and Japanese style of fashion, this oversized, androgynous collection is a perfect extension of Orry’s personal style, says the digital creator.

FlyingMachine

Ludic expands India presence in partnership with Broadway and Flxy

Footwear-first lifestyle brand, Ludic is expanding its retail presence in India in partnership with retailers Broadway and Flxy,

The brand has opened multi-brand outlets for Broadway in Hyderabad and for Flxy in Pune. These stores offer Ludic’s diverse product range including footwear, apparel, and accessories.

Additionally, the stores also offer immersive brand experiences, including exclusive in-store events, activations, and collaborations.

Ishit Jethwa, Founder, Ludic, says, these stores will help the brand capture real-time insights and feedback from customers on design acceptance, category mix, and pricing strategies, in turn, helping it iterate and launch better products in the future.

With both Broadway and Flxy e been in the business for long, their understanding of the consumers aligns perfectly with Ludic’s. The brand plans to enter into a long-term partnership with the two retailers, he adds.

Currently retailing through its website and online marketplaces like Amazon, Myntra, etc, Ludic to further expand its offline presence by opening new EBOs and MBOs across across India. 

Ludic expands India presence in partnership with Broadway and Flxy

India’s high street poised for a revival with global luxury brands setting shops in next 2-3 years

With cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi-NCR set to attract global luxury brands in the coming two to three years, India’s high street retail is poised for a revival, say experts. Once overshadowed by malls due to infrastructure challenges, high streets are drawing renewed interest thanks to improvements in parking facilities and walkability. This shift is not only making high streets more competitive with malls but also providing a fresh retail experience to both consumers and brands.
For years, global luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Zara avoided India’s high streets, citing poor infrastructure, such as limited parking and pedestrian access. Zara withdrew plans to open a store on Bengaluru’s Commercial Street, and Louis Vuitton shut down its high street location in Chennai due to these issues, explains Abhishek Sharma, Senior Director - Retail Agency, Knight Frank India. However, with significant redevelopment on key streets like Commercial Street and Church Street in Bengaluru, with improved parking and wider walkways, luxury brands are once again flocking to high streets.
Indian-origin brands quick to capitalise on this high street revival include FabIndia, Biba, American Eagle, Tommy Hilfiger and Jack & Jones. According to Sharma, the number of luxury brands setting up their shops on high streets has increased from around 100 to 135-140.
Besides metro cities, this revival can also be seen in Tier II cities like Bhubaneswar, Nasik, Mysuru, and Rajkot.

India’s high street poised for a revival with global luxury brands setting shops in next 2-3 years

Tripti Dimri, Vijay Varma to endorse Metro Shoes’ Autumn/Winter 2024 collection

Actors Tripti Dimri and Vijay Varma have been onboarded by Metro Shoes to endorse the brand’s Autumn/Winter 2024 collection. The actors will feature in brand campaign to be telecast across various platforms.

The campaign will enable Metro Shoes to expand its reach to a wider audience and boost sales during the festive season.

Alisha Malik, President, Metro Brands, says, the campaign showcases a well-rounded collection offering everything from everyday essentials to signature styles that are stylish, versatile and comfortable. Both Dimri and Varma perfectly exemplify the brand’s audience that is self-confident, authentic and with a keen sense of personal style.

Dimri adds, the excitement of shopping at Metro with family is a cherished memory. The brand offers a varied range from casual styles in college to more trendy options for special occasions. Its latest collection is set to available for purchase on the brand’s website and retail outlets across the country.

Tripti Dimri, Vijay Varma to endorse Metro Shoes’ Autumn/Winter 2024 collection

Campus Activewear ropes in Vicky Kaushal as new brand ambassador

A sports and athleisure brand Campus Activewear has roped in Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal as their new brand ambassador. The brand plans to launch several campaigns featuring the actor across various platforms in the coming months.

The partnership will enable the brand to connect with a wide customer base and leverage on the Kaushal’s popularity amongst youth to fuel its future growth.
Nikhil Aggarwal, CEO, Campus Activewear says, Kaushal’s effortless style alongwith his confidence, and authenticity make him an ideal choice for the role of a brand ambassador.

Kaushal adds, through this association, Campus Activewear aims to empower individuals to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. The partnership will enable customers to have fun with personal style and make bold, unique fashion choices.

Campus Activewear ropes in Vicky Kaushal as new brand ambassador

Latest Publications

Image