The merger of Lakme Fashion Week and Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) into a biannual event signifies a renewed focus on the growth of the Indian fashion industry. This collaboration aims to bring together the strengths of both organizations, creating a platform that attracts both established designers and emerging talent. The reunion seeks to recapture the “magic” of previous years when Lakme Fashion Week was a central hub for the industry, drawing a diverse range of designers and buyers. This renewed collaboration seeks to attract international buyers from renowned stores like Selfridges, Galeries Lafayette, and Rinascente, fostering the potential for Indian brands to achieve global recognition. The event focuses primarily on ready-to-wear labels, making it a significant platform for designers showcasing their latest collections.
The strategic partnership between Lakme, IMG, and FDCI seeks to address previous challenges, such as a decline in new buyers and internal divisions. By uniting under a common vision, the organizers aim to provide a more cohesive and impactful event, bolstering the global presence of Indian fashion. Sunil Sethi, president of the FDCI, emphasizes the collective effort towards establishing India as a major force in the international fashion landscape. The aim is to create an environment where established and emerging designers can thrive, attracting both domestic and international attention.
The Gen Next show remains a pivotal part of Lakme Fashion Week, consistently showcasing promising young designers. This platform has launched the careers of notable figures like Rahul Mishra, who later showcased at Paris Haute Couture Week and collaborated with Tod’s. The Gen Next program underscores the event’s commitment to nurturing new talent and pushing the boundaries of Indian fashion. This season introduces four debuting designers: 2112 Saldon by Padma Saldon, Margn by Saurabh Maurya, Ananya The Label by Ananya Arora, and VJ by Sakshi Vijay Punyani.
This season’s Gen Next designers showcase a modern interpretation of India’s rich textile heritage. Padma Saldon, a NIFT graduate from Leh in Ladakh, incorporates traditional handwoven sheep wool techniques and innovative patchwork, preserving Ladakh’s artisanal legacy while appealing to contemporary tastes. These emerging designers exemplify the fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern design sensibilities that characterizes the evolving landscape of Indian fashion. Each designer brings a unique perspective, drawing inspiration from various regions and cultural traditions across India.
