Top 5 South Asian Fashion Designers to Follow in 2025
The world of South Asian fashion is constantly evolving, with designers pushing boundaries while celebrating cultural heritage. From stunning bridal couture to ready-to-wear collections that merge traditional elements with modern aesthetics, South Asian fashion designers are gaining international recognition for their creativity and innovation. As we move into 2025, here are five South Asian designers to watch, each of whom is making a significant mark in the global fashion scene.
1. Manish Malhotra (India)
Why Follow:
Manish Malhotra is a name synonymous with luxury and opulence in Indian fashion. Known for his exquisite bridal and couture collections, he has redefined Indian fashion globally by blending traditional craft techniques with modern glamour. His creations, often featuring intricate embroidery, luxurious fabrics, and contemporary silhouettes, are popular among Bollywood celebrities and international clients alike.
What to Expect in 2025: In 2025, expect Manish Malhotra to continue pushing the boundaries of bridal and couture fashion with his signature use of sequins, velvet, and beadwork. His ability to create timeless pieces while incorporating modern-day elements ensures he remains at the forefront of luxury Indian fashion.
Signature Style:
- Intricate embroidery
- Lavish lehengas and sarees
- Modern cuts and contemporary silhouettes
2. Sabyasachi Mukherjee (India)
Why Follow:
Sabyasachi Mukherjee is renowned for his breathtaking bridal collections, rich in cultural storytelling and traditional Indian craftsmanship. His designs combine royal grandeur with bohemian influences, creating a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern sensibility. Whether it’s a wedding lehenga or an elegant saree, Sabyasachi’s work is adored for its use of rich textiles, opulent colors, and intricate detailing.
What to Expect in 2025: For 2025, expect more of Sabyasachi’s luxurious bridal collections with a twist. His continued exploration of vintage aesthetics, mixed with ethnic prints and jewel-toned hues, is expected to appeal to modern brides seeking timeless yet bold fashion. His use of heritage techniques like zardozi and block printing will continue to push boundaries.
Signature Style:
- Luxe fabrics such as velvet, silk, and brocade
- Intricate hand-embroidered motifs
- Classic bridal wear with a rich, bohemian touch
3. Fawad Khan (Pakistan)
Why Follow:
Fawad Khan is not only an acclaimed actor but also an emerging fashion designer with a unique vision. His brand focuses on blending modern tailoring with South Asian craftsmanship, offering both men’s and women’s wear that strikes a perfect balance between traditional and contemporary. Known for his minimalistic approach, Fawad’s designs are understated yet highly elegant.
What to Expect in 2025: In 2025, Fawad Khan’s collections are expected to continue focusing on refined, sophisticated clothing with a fusion of sleek tailoring and ethnic accents. As a designer, Fawad is well-positioned to appeal to a global audience, as he creates timeless pieces for both formal and casual occasions.
Signature Style:
- Minimalist with ethnic influences
- Tailored silhouettes
- Focus on comfort and versatility
4. Rashmi Varma (India)
Why Follow:
Rashmi Varma’s designs are known for their unique interpretation of Indian craftsmanship combined with a modern sensibility. Rashmi’s collections often feature a blend of sustainable fashion with luxurious fabrics, such as handwoven silks and organic cottons. Her work focuses on creating pieces that are both fashionable and environmentally conscious, with a strong commitment to fair trade and sustainability.
What to Expect in 2025: In 2025, Rashmi Varma is expected to further embrace eco-friendly and sustainable practices while creating unique, statement-making designs. With the global push for sustainable fashion, her collections will likely continue to appeal to conscious consumers who are looking for both beauty and environmental impact in their wardrobes.
Signature Style:
- Sustainable fashion with a luxury twist
- Handwoven silks and organic fabrics
- Contemporary silhouettes with ethnic craftsmanship
5. Bina Khan (Bangladesh)
Why Follow:
Bina Khan is a rising star in the South Asian fashion scene, known for her innovative designs that celebrate the rich textile heritage of Bangladesh. Her brand is focused on traditional Bangladeshi fabrics, such as muslin and jamdani, while integrating contemporary silhouettes. With a strong focus on craftsmanship, Bina’s pieces often feature intricate handwork and elegant draping, making them stand out for their unique blend of culture and modernity.
What to Expect in 2025: In 2025, Bina Khan is expected to continue pushing the boundaries of design by experimenting with indigenous textiles and incorporating them into international fashion trends. Her collections will likely feature a mix of soft drapes, structured cuts, and vibrant colors, all while emphasizing her commitment to preserving traditional weaving techniques.
Signature Style:
- Modern interpretations of traditional Bangladeshi textiles
- Elegant draping and intricate handwork
- Minimalist designs with a focus on craftsmanship
Conclusion
The South Asian fashion landscape is rich with talent, offering a diverse range of designers whose work spans the globe. Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of Manish Malhotra’s bridal couture or the minimalist elegance of Fawad Khan’s tailored designs, the future of South Asian fashion is bright. As we approach 2025, these five designers are setting trends that celebrate the beauty of South Asian culture while integrating global fashion influences. Keep an eye on their collections to see how they continue to shape the fashion world in the years to come.
