The womenswear market in India is shaped by diverse cultural traditions, globalisation, urbanisation, the ever evolving impact of e-commerce, increased purchasing power of consumers within the country and a demographic diversity that beats every other place on earth.
Within the kaleidoscope of India’s fashion realm, a dynamic story is unfolding that weaves together tradition and modernity, while responding to the ever-evolving tastes and desires of the contemporary Indian woman.
Traditional attires like sarees and salwar kameez co-exist with a rising demand for westernwear influenced by global trends. Within this narrative, the e-commerce boom has revolutionised shopping habits of consumers, offering convenience and variety at their fingertips. With growing disposable incomes, consumers are prioritising quality and sustainability, driving demand for eco-friendly materials and ethical practices.
India’s diverse population presents opportunities in both urban metros and emerging Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Brands must understand these dynamics to cater effectively to the diverse needs and preferences of Indian women, emphasising innovation, style and sustainability for success in this competitive landscape.
Reflecting on consumer preferences, Rupanshi Aggarwal, Co-Founder of Qua, echoes the brand’s commitment to empowering women while noting, “Customers are increasingly shifting towards quality products and focusing less on quantity. They’d rather own fewer high-quality products than several low-quality products.”
“The biggest factor driving consumption in women’s fashion categories in the Indian market is globalisation, coupled with an increase in consumer purchase capacity and fashion consciousness. E-commerce brands are the top purchase medium for this category, offering enticing deals and a larger selection of clothing,” she added.
| “Tailoring has gone mainstream this season, with suiting making a comeback. Oversized silhouettes, wide-legged pants and playful corsetry are on the rise. Neutral colours like beige, black and white will dominate, alongside pastels and the continued popularity of denim.” Rupanshi Aggarwal Co-Founder of Qua |
Qua stands as a beacon of strength for contemporary women aged between 25-45. With a meticulous focus on premium quality fabrics and ethical sourcing practices, Qua offers a range of trans-seasonal wear that embodies comfort, functionality and sustainability.
Moin Kazi, Founder of House of Abiti, remarked, “The shift from quantity to quality reflects a growing awareness among consumers about the environmental and social impact of their purchasing decisions. By investing in timeless pieces crafted from sustainable materials, consumers are ensuring longevity and supporting ethical practices within the fashion industry.”
House of Abiti seeks to redefine modernity with every stitch, empowering local artisans and integrating nature’s elements into captivating prints and contemporary silhouettes. Priced between Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 48,000, the brand’s product categories resonate with a diverse audience seeking comfort and fashion-forward styles. Moin emphasises the brand’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, recommending eco-friendly materials like bamboo hemp and sugarcane for the upcoming season.
| “Must-have products for F/W 2024-25 include versatile layering pieces like lightweight trench coats in neutral tones, cozy knit sweaters, oversized sets in Peach Fuzz hues and tailored pieces in earthy shades. Statement accessories such as geometric-shaped handbags and sculptural jewelry pieces will add a contemporary edge to any ensemble.” Moin Kazi Founder of House of Abiti |
The upcoming Fall/Winter 2024 season is poised to see several trends shaping Indian women’s fashion. Tailoring is set to make a comeback, emphasising structured cuts and meticulous detailing, offering a refined yet contemporary aesthetic. Oversized pieces, including coats and wide-legged pants, are projected to gain popularity, providing both comfort and a sense of fashion-forward sophistication. Corsetry and corsetry-inspired details will maintain their relevance, with playful and vibrant designs infusing a modern twist into traditional tailoring.
Maxi-length skirts and dresses are forecasted to be in demand, offering versatility and elegance to winter wardrobes. In terms of colour, neutral colour palettes such as beige, black and white, are expected to dominate the scene, alongside the timeless appeal of pastel hues.
“A surge in demand for minimalist yet art-led designs, with a preference for soft, warm tones inspired by the Pantone colour of the year, Peach Fuzz. Oversized coats, fluid midi dresses and tailored trousers with architectural details will be highly sought after.” Moin confirmed.
In Fall/Winter 2024, the materials used in women’s fashion are expected to reflect a blend of comfort, functionality and sustainability. Eco-friendly fabrics such as bamboo hemp, sugarcane and coconut-based textiles are predicted to gain traction, offering durability and breathability while reducing environmental impact. Additionally, traditional materials like wool blends and Turkish cotton will continue to be favoured for their premium quality and insulation properties during colder months.
Rupanshi emphasises, “We prioritise premium quality fabrics such as Turkish cotton, viscose and wool blends, moving away from polyester for a premium experience. Ethical sourcing practices ensure fair treatment of labour and environmental responsibility, aligning with our commitment to excellence and integrity.”
That being said, denim will continue to be a staple fabric, evolving into innovative shapes and styles. Coordinated sets and full ensembles are predicted to remain popular, offering effortless yet chic outfit options. Additionally, a shift towards tailored and fitted silhouettes is anticipated, reflecting a refined yet relaxed approach to dressing for the season.
| “Investing in eco-friendly materials such as bamboo hemp, sugarcane and coconut-based fabrics for the upcoming season, offer a perfect blend of durability, comfort and reduced environmental footprint.” Moin Kazi Founder of House of Abiti |
In general, the market climate is characterised by a growing emphasis on ethical sourcing practices and transparency in supply chains. Consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental and social implications of their purchases, driving demand for sustainable fashion options. Brands that prioritise eco-conscious materials and ethical production methods are likely to click well with discerning consumers.
As purchasing power continues to rise, particularly amongst urban consumers, there’s a growing appetite for high-quality, transitional and timeless pieces that offer value and versatility. On that note, Fall/Winter 2024 presents an opportunity for brands to align with consumer values, innovate with sustainable materials and cater to the evolving preferences of the modern Indian woman. Our comprehensive 17-page guide is curated to address these evolving demands, presenting essential products that will serve as the cornerstone of a new-season wardrobe, providing valuable insights for brands and retailers.
The ultimate womenswear buying guide for Fall/Winter 2024-25
