These are the years for eccentric Indo-Western looks and bold choices. From vintage to streetwear, artsy to boho chic, today, people have started experimenting with a variety of styles. This fusion dressing style is growing and changing rapidly per the latest trends. Fusion couture is fashionable and bold. Of late, international fashion brands have begun to see the immense potential of this sector, which offers a multitude of opportunities to in-house fashion designers. The Indian fashion industry has enlarged to such an extent over time that it has now come at par with some of the most well-renowned international brands.

The Women’s ethnic wear industry has witnessed significant growth in recent years on account of rapid urbanization supported by an increase in disposable income. Research shows “Due to redefined Indian traditional clothing, the women ethnic wear market is experiencing a thrust and is expected to increase at a CAGR of 10% during the forecasted period of 2016-2020.” This has led to the emergence of innovative designs. According to a Mckinsey report “India is a mosaic of climates and tastes.”  And, its “apparel market will be worth $59.3 billion in 2022, making it the sixth-largest in the world.”

The colloquial ‘Indo-Western’ style of clothing is a fusion between Western and South-Asian fashion. In the 21st century, Western styles are well-established as a part of predominantly ‘Indian fashion’, where some working Indian women ditched traditional saris for Western-Style dresses. Today’s youth is eagerly experimenting with different looks and is enthusiastic about combining traditional clothes with a western touch. When fashion turns fusion, a kurta becomes a tunic, a dupatta becomes a stole; and salwar becomes a pair of trousers. Indo-Western has a unique take on western fashion by showcasing creativity in waistlines, cuts in fabric, necklines, and other embroidered or woven decorations.

A short kurta, with straight pants and a relatively simple dupatta is what a quintessential Indo-Western outfit consists of for a woman. Contemporary designs often feature sleeveless tops, short dupattas, and pants with slits. Indian consumers are getting increasingly conscious of their appearances. They are more inclined towards ethnic fashion with a touch of modernism. Designers like myself work towards the integration of Ancient Indian Arts & Crafts and its patterns with western silhouettes. As designers compete to create designs in tune with current trends in their industries, unique fusion fashions trends are rising expeditiously.

Blending Indian textures with western apparel gives a whole new look to the outfit. Jeans with ethnic prints, sequins, or embroidery work are the new “it” factor in fashion. Wearing a short jacket with an Indian-style dupatta in vibrant shades, Indian motifs, or pairing a noodle strap blouse with a conservative Indian sari will give an ultra-modern look to the wearer. A flowy crepe skirt can be paired with a halter neck or spaghetti-strapped top giving an attractive and quirky appearance to the wearer. Pairing a regular churidar with straight pants or teaming up Patiala salwar with short shirts or designer tops is a new rage, and we are here for it.

Fusion wear has something to offer to people of all ages. It is a fashion rule that has no rules…And, that means – an endless scope for experimentation and personal touches, allowing freedom of expression and a lovely take on Traditional & Modern India.

About the author-Akshara Jodhawat, Founder, Aksharaj Couture