India’s Moment in the Luxury Space: A Rich Tapestry of Culture and Fashion
In recent years, the global fashion landscape has undergone a vibrant transformation, marked by an undeniable embrace of Indian culture and artistry. The luxury sector, in particular, has shown keen interest in the subcontinent, with brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Dior integrating local elements into their collections. This article delves into the significant milestones of 2025 that highlight India’s commanding presence in the global luxury arena.
Fashion and Global Visibility
Four Debutants at the Met Gala
The 2025 Met Gala became a historical moment for Indian representation, with Bollywood icons like Shah Rukh Khan, Diljit Dosanjh, Kiara Advani, and designer Manish Malhotra gracing its red carpet for the first time. Khan sported an all-black ensemble from Sabyasachi, epitomizing elegance paired with traditional flair. Diljit’s cultural homage came through an embroidered angrakha, adorned with Punjab’s map and Gurmukhi script, providing a bold statement of identity. Kiara dazzled in a Gaurav Gupta gown that combined modernity and traditional inspiration, while Malhotra showcased an embroidered cape coat that spoke to India’s rich textile heritage.
Chanel’s India Moment in Global Luxury Fashion
In 2025, Chanel made headlines by appointing Ananya Panday as its first Indian brand ambassador, exemplifying the brand’s commitment to connecting with India’s younger generation. This year also marked a historic moment for Hyderabad-born model Bhavitha Mandava, who made waves by opening Chanel’s Métiers d’Art 2026 show in New York. From discovering talent in unconventional places to spotlighting modern femininity, Chanel is making significant inroads into Indian culture.
Alia Bhatt and the Fusion of Tradition with Luxury
Alia Bhatt added another layer to India’s representation on global platforms by wearing Gucci’s first custom saree at the 78th Cannes Film Festival’s closing ceremony. This unique piece symbolized a blending of Indian traditions with modern luxury, echoing her role as Gucci’s global ambassador. Her continued collaborations with high-profile brands demonstrate how Indian celebrities are transcending their cinematic roots to influence global fashion narratives.
Runways and Cultural Dialogue
Vivienne Westwood’s Mumbai Show
In a monumental display of cultural engagement, renowned British brand Vivienne Westwood hosted an awe-inspiring runway show in Mumbai, set against the backdrop of the iconic Gateway of India. The collection featured a mix of rare archival pieces and modern creations, all while emphasizing Indian craftsmanship through handwoven textiles. This approach reflects a deeper conversation about blending Western luxury with Eastern artisanal skills.
Louis Vuitton’s India-Inspired Fashion Moment
Louis Vuitton’s Spring/Summer 2026 menswear show included a spectacular life-sized Snakes and Ladders runway, designed by Mumbai architect Bijoy Jain. Pharrell Williams’ creative direction fused Indian craftsmanship with contemporary design, while a score co-composed by A.R. Rahman underlined the cultural dialogue woven into the fabric of luxury.
Craft and Heritage
Prada and Kolhapuri Sandals
In a move that speaks to cultural respect and collaboration, Prada announced a limited-edition sandal collection crafted in India. By partnering with artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka, the Italian luxury brand acknowledged Indian heritage, especially after facing backlash for previous design appropriations. The Kolhapuri-inspired sandals, priced around €800, reflect a shift toward accountability in fashion.
Mukaish Embroidery: A Debate on Cultural Responsibility
Dior’s introduction of a luxurious menswear overcoat featuring intricate mukaish embroidery at Paris Fashion Week brought attention to cultural borrowing without proper acknowledgment. The hefty price tag of ₹1.7 crore drew criticism from Indian artisans, igniting discussions around credit and cultural responsibility in the realm of luxury fashion.
Global Brand Entrances
French Luxury Retailer Galeries Lafayette Enters India
In November 2025, French luxury department store Galeries Lafayette inaugurated a flagship store in Mumbai, showcasing over 250 luxury brands. This significant milestone not only heightens the confidence in Indian consumers but also highlights a shift towards experiential luxury shopping.
Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty Enters India
Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty launched in India with high hopes, praised for its inclusive shade range. However, a campaign image faced cultural backlash, emphasizing the importance of understanding local contexts when entering new markets. This incident illustrates a more discerning Indian audience that holds global brands accountable.
Tesla’s Official Entry
2025 also marked Tesla’s official debut in India with the opening of its showroom in Mumbai and the launch of the Model Y electric SUV. Entering the Indian market represents a significant milestone in bringing innovative electric vehicle technology to an eager consumer base.
The Expanding Luxury Market
India’s luxury market reached nearly $12 billion in 2025, indicating the country’s escalating role in the global luxury ecosystem. Forecasts suggest this dynamic sector will continue to grow by approximately 74% annually. Moreover, luxury spending is gradually shifting from personal goods to experiences. Notably, luxury travel and hospitality were valued at $103 billion in 2025, showcasing a burgeoning demand for experience-driven luxury.
In summary, India is experiencing a renaissance in luxury fashion. Through collaborations, cultural shows, and thoughtful representation, both local and global brands are weaving India’s rich heritage into the very fabric of luxury, positioning the country as an influential player on the world stage.