India is known for its diverse culture and rich heritage, which is reflected in its traditional ethnic wear. With the increasing popularity of ethnic wear, many brands have emerged on the market, offering a range of styles and designs. From stunning sarees to elegant salwar suits, ethnic wear has become a fashion statement for women. In this blog post, we will discuss the top 10 best ethnic wear brands in India that have earned a reputation for their quality, craftsmanship, and unique designs. Whether you are looking for something traditional or contemporary, these brands offer a wide range of options to choose from. This makes them a go-to destination for ethnic wear shopping.
Read about the best saree brands in India that offer a beautiful collection of sarees.
Ethnic Wear Industry in India
India’s ethnic wear industry is a significant part of the country’s fashion industry. The market size of the ethnic wear industry in India was in excess of Rs. 925 billion in 2018 and is projected to grow to a whopping Rs. 1.7 trillion by the year 2023. The women’s ethnic wear segment accounts for approximately 71% of the total apparel market size for women’s wear, and the men’s ethnic wear segment accounts for a revenue share of 16.4% in 2020 and is projected to witness a CAGR of 6.2% over the forecast period.
The year 2023 is going to be a roller-coaster, almost, when it comes to ethnic wedding fashion. In 2023, we will see a lot of returning trends like jacket lehenga, sequin, and organza as well as entirely new fashion statements like colliding colours, attached dupattas, etc. Some styles like the love for pastels, ethnic block prints, and cut-out choli – extremely popular last year – will continue dominating the ethnic fashion scenes.
The evolution of the ethnic wear industry has been supported by the growth of various sectors, such as textile companies and fashion and clothing retail companies, which have been instrumental in providing the necessary resources and platforms for these brands.
Best Ethnic Wear Brands in India
1. Biba
- Launched in: 1988
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
- Owned by: Siddharth Bindra
- Products: Ethnic wear for women and girls, including salwar suits, kurtas, dresses, and more.
- Price Range (in rupees): 500 to 10,000
India is a land of diversity, and this is reflected in the wide range of traditional clothing found here. BIBA is one of the best ethnic wear brands in India. Their products are known for their high quality and beautiful designs. Popular products include sarees, lehengas, and Kurtis. They also offer accessories to complete your look. Whether you’re looking for something traditional or modern, BIBA has something to suit your style. So if you’re looking for ethnic wear, check out BIBA. You won’t be disappointed.
2. Fabindia
- Launched in: 1960
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
- Owned by: William Bissell
- Products: Ethnic wear for men, women, and kids, along with home decor items and accessories made using traditional techniques and fabrics.
- Price Range (in rupees): 500 to 10,000
Founded in 1960, FABINDIA is one of the best ethnic wear brands in India. It is a leading retailer of Indian lifestyle products and is known for its wide range of products. This includes everything from clothes and accessories to home furnishings and gifts. The brand focuses on quality and design, and its products are popular with both Indian and international customers. In addition to its flagship store in Mumbai, FABINDIA has over 250 stores across India. This makes it one of the most widely distributed brands in the country. Some of its popular products include kurtas, sarees, dupattas, stoles, suits, and lehengas.
3. Manyavar
- Launched in: 1999
- Headquarters: Kolkata, India
- Owned by: Ravi Modi
- Products: Ethnic wear for men, including sherwanis, kurtas, jackets, and more.
- Price Range (in rupees): 1,000 to 50,000
Manyavar is one of the most popular ethnic wear brands in India, specializing in men’s clothing such as sherwanis, kurtas, and accessories. Their range of traditional clothing is diverse and offers a mix of modern and traditional styles that cater to every occasion. Manyavar’s unique designs and high-quality fabrics have made them a go-to brand for many men who want to look their finest at weddings, festivals, and other special occasions. With a strong presence in India and abroad, Manyavar has become synonymous with ethnic wear. It has cemented its position as one of the best ethnic wear brands in India.
4. W for Women
- Launched in: 2001
- Headquarters: Bengaluru, India
- Owned by: TCNS Clothing Co. Limited
- Products: Ethnic wear for women, including kurtas, dresses, sarees, and more.
- Price Range (in rupees): 500 to 10,000
W for Women is a well-known ethnic wear brand in India that caters to the modern Indian woman. Their collection includes traditional and contemporary styles, including sarees, salwar suits, kurtis, and more. The brand is known for its high-quality fabrics, intricate designs, and attention to detail. W for Women has a strong online and offline presence, with stores across the country. With their wide range of options, affordable prices, and commitment to quality, W for Women is definitely one of the best ethnic wear brands in India.
5. Meena Bazaar
- Launched in: 1970
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
- Owned by: Sameer Makker and Vishal Makker
- Products: Ethnic wear for women, including sarees, lehengas, suits, and more.
- Price Range (in rupees): 2,000 to 50,000
Meena Bazaar is one of the best ethnic wear brands in India. In existence since 1978, Meena Bazaar has a strong presence in the Indian market. The company started as a small saree store in Mumbai and has now expanded to over 200 stores across the country. Meena Bazaar offers a wide range of sarees, lehengas, and kurtis. The company also manufactures its own fabric line, sold under the brand name ‘Mina’. Popular products from Meena Bazaar include the ‘Kashmiri Saree’, the ‘Bihar Kurta’, and the ‘Lucknowi Kurta’.
6. Soch
- Launched in: 2005
- Headquarters: Bengaluru, India
- Owned by: Vinay Chatlani
- Products: Ethnic wear for women, including sarees, kurtis, suits, and more.
- Price Range (in rupees): 1,000 to 10,000
Soch is a popular Indian brand that specializes in women’s ethnic wear. It offers a wide range of traditional outfits like sarees, salwar suits, lehengas, kurtis, and more. The brand is known for its contemporary designs, quality fabrics, and exquisite craftsmanship that reflect India’s rich culture and heritage. Soch has a strong online and offline presence, with stores across major cities in India and an e-commerce platform that offers hassle-free shopping. With its commitment to delivering the latest fashion trends and impeccable customer service, Soch has established itself as one of the best ethnic wear brands in India.
7. Raw Mango
- Launched in: 2008
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
- Owned by: Sanjay Garg
- Products: Ethnic wear for women, including sarees, suits, and dresses made using traditional Indian techniques and fabrics.
- Price Range (in rupees): 10,000 to 1,00,000
Raw Mango is one of the most popular and best ethnic wear brands in India, known for its exquisite designs and high-quality fabrics. Their collections include sarees, lehengas, kurtas, and more, with a focus on traditional Indian techniques and craftsmanship. Raw Mango’s founder, Sanjay Garg, is known for his dedication to reviving traditional textiles and patterns while also infusing modern elements into his designs. The brand has been recognized in India and internationally, with collaborations with well-known fashion brands and appearances at major fashion weeks. Raw Mango continues to be a favourite among those who appreciate Indian textiles and craftsmanship.
8. Global Desi
- Launched in: 2007
- Headquarters: Mumbai, India
- Owned by: And Designs India Limited
- Products: Ethnic wear for women, including kurtas, dresses, sarees, and more with a fusion of Indian and Western styles.
- Price Range (in rupees): 1,000 to 10,000
GLOBAL DESI is one of the best ethnic wear brands in India. It is known for its original and trendy designs. The brand offers a wide range of products, including clothes, accessories, home decor, and more. GLOBAL DESI is popular with women of all ages and has a loyal customer base. The brand’s popularity is due to its quality products, competitive prices, and superior customer service. Some of the most popular products from GLOBAL DESI include kurtas, dupattas, stoles, lehengas, and sarees. If you are looking for ethnic wear, GLOBAL DESI is the right brand for you.
9. Vark by Westside
- Launched in: 2018
- Headquarters: Mumbai, India
- Owned by: Trent Limited
- Products: Ethnic wear for women, including kurtas, dresses, sarees, and more with a modern and contemporary twist.
- Price Range (in rupees): 1,000 to 5,000
Vark by Westside is one of the most popular and best ethnic wear brands in India for ethnic wear. It offers a wide range of traditional outfits for women. The brand is known for its striking and contemporary designs while staying true to traditional Indian styles. Vark by Westside uses high-quality fabrics and intricate detailing to create stylish and elegant pieces suitable for any special occasion or event. Their collection includes sarees, kurtis, salwar suits, lehengas, and more, all designed to make women feel confident and beautiful. With their attention to detail and commitment to quality, Vark by Westside is definitely one of the top and best ethnic wear brands in India.
10. Indya by FabAlley
- Launched in: 2016
- Headquarters: Gurgaon, India
- Owned by: High Street Essentials Pvt. Ltd.
- Products: Women's ethnic wear including sarees, suits, kurtis, and accessories
- Price Range (in rupees): Rs. 1,000 - Rs. 10,000
Indya by FabAlley is a famous Indian ethnic wear brand that offers a wide range of traditional and contemporary outfits for women. FabAlley’s Indya by FabAlley is a go-to choice for women who want to make a fashion statement at weddings, festivals, and other special occasions. From elegant sarees and chic kurtis to trendy fusion wear and stylish accessories, Indya by FabAlley caters to its customers’ diverse needs and preferences. With its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, Indya by FabAlley is one of the best ethnic wear brands in India.
Ethnic Wear Buying Guide
1. Understand the Varieties:
India has a vast diversity of ethnic wear, reflecting its diverse culture. Some popular ethnic wears include Sarees, Salwar Kameez, Lehengas, Sherwanis, and Kurtas. Each of these outfits has different styles and variations depending on the region. For example, the Kanjeevaram saree from South India is different from a Bandhani saree from Gujarat or a Taant saree from Bengal.
2. Choosing the Right Fabric:
The fabric of the ethnic wear can determine its look, comfort, and durability. Common materials include silk, cotton, chiffon, georgette, and crepe. Silk gives a rich and royal look, cotton is comfortable and easy to carry, while georgette and chiffon are lightweight and suitable for a flowing look. Choose a fabric according to the occasion and your comfort.
Taking proper care of your skin by using products from the best skincare brands in India can also help improve your overall look.
3. Colors and Patterns:
Indian ethnic wear is known for vibrant colours and intricate patterns. It’s essential to choose the right colours that suit your complexion. Lighter shades are ideal for daytime events, while darker shades are better for evening occasions. Patterns and designs can range from simple block prints to detailed embroidery work.
While selecting ethnic wear, exploring complementary accessories and lifestyle products is also beneficial. For instance, choosing the right jewellery to match your outfit can elevate your overall look. Similarly, ensuring your home decor resonates with your aesthetic, with products from the best furniture brands in India, can create a harmonious lifestyle experience.
4. Know the Occasion:
The type of ethnic wear you choose also depends on the occasion. Opt for heavier fabrics like silk, with detailed embroidery or embellishments for weddings. You might prefer lighter fabrics like cotton or chiffon, with minimalistic designs for casual occasions or regular wear.
5. Right Fit and Size:
Getting the right fit is crucial. Make sure you know your measurements before purchasing, especially for fitted garments like blouses, kurtas or salwars. Many online retailers provide a size guide to help you select the right size.
6. Choosing the Right Store:
Buy from a reputable store, whether online or offline. Check for the store’s return and exchange policy. If shopping online, check the customer reviews and ratings.
7. Accessories:
Indian ethnic wear is often paired with traditional jewellery. You could opt for gold or silver jewellery, or imitation ones based on your preference and budget. Traditional footwear like juttis or kolhapuris can complement your outfit.
8. Budget:
Set a budget before shopping. Ethnic wear can range from very affordable to extremely expensive, depending on the fabric, design, and brand.
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9. Customization:
Some stores offer customization options, where you can get your ethnic wear tailored as per your measurements and preferences. This can be a great option to get the perfect fit and design.
10. Maintenance:
Most ethnic wear requires careful maintenance. Dry cleaning is recommended for heavy or silk materials, while cotton can generally be washed at home. Check the washing and care instructions before purchasing.
Our Recommendations
1. Everyday Casual Wear:
- Biba and W for Women offer a wide variety of everyday wear kurtas, salwars, and palazzos that are comfortable and stylish.
- Fabindia is known for its comfortable and sustainable clothing options. They offer a wide variety of everyday ethnic wear with minimal designs.
- Global Desi and Indya by FabAlley are great options for chic and modern ethnic wear suitable for daily use.
For those interested in starting their own ethnic wear line, gaining insights from how to start an online clothing business in India can be an invaluable resource.
2. Office Wear:
- Fabindia and Soch are suitable for elegant and understated kurtas and sarees that can be worn in a professional setting.
- W for Women also offers a collection of formal kurtas and pants suitable for the office.
3. Special Occasions/Weddings:
- Manyavar is a renowned brand for men’s ethnic wear suitable for weddings and other special occasions.
- Meena Bazaar is known for its exquisite sarees and lehengas with intricate detailing, ideal for weddings and festivals.
- Raw Mango and Vark by Westside offer designer ethnic wear with a contemporary touch, suitable for special occasions.
4. Modern Fusion Wear:
- Global Desi and Indya by FabAlley offer a wide variety of fusion wear that combines traditional Indian styles with modern designs.
- W for Women also has a collection of fusion wear that is trendy and stylish.
5. Budget-Friendly Options:
- Biba, Soch, and W for Women offer a range of affordable ethnic wear options without compromising on style and quality.
6. Luxury/High-End Options:
- Raw Mango offers high-end, luxury ethnic wear with unique designs and high-quality fabric.
- Meena Bazaar is also a high-end brand offering luxury ethnic wear with detailed handiwork and rich fabrics.
FAQs
What are some top ethnic wear brands in India?
Top Ethnic Wear Brands In India Include Biba, Global Desi, FabIndia, Soch, And Rangriti.
Which Brand Is Most Known For Ethnic Wear In India?
Biba Is A Popular And Well-Established Brand That Offers A Wide Range Of Ethnic Wear In India.
What Are Some Other Notable Brands For Ethnic Dresses In India?
Some Notable Brands For Ethnic Dresses In India Include Akkriti By Pantaloons, W For Women, And Lakshita.
Are There Small Indian Ethnic Wear Brands That Are Gaining Global Recognition?
Kalki Fashion And The Indian Ethnic Co Are Some Of The Small Indian Ethnic Wear Brands That Are Making Their Mark Globally.
Which Sites Are Best For Shopping Ethnic Wear In India?
Websites Like Biba, Global Desi, And Rangriti Are Popular For Quality Ethnic Wear Shopping In India.
Conclusion
In conclusion, India is known for its diverse culture and unique fashion sense. The ethnic wear market in India has grown tremendously over the years, and there are many brands that cater to fashion needs. From traditional sarees and salwar suits to contemporary fusion wear, these brands have something for everyone. The top 10 best ethnic wear brands in India are a perfect blend of modern and traditional styles, offering customers a wide range of options to choose from. Each brand has its own unique identity and caters to different segments of customers and is suitable for all types of occasions. I hope this article has helped you in choosing your ethnic preferences.
