HAUTE LOCKER

The beginning of the year brings a mixed bag to the fashion parade with the style brigade all set to celebrate gender-fluid garments that flirt with technology as much as they pay homage to heritage and timeless craftsmanship.

- Smita Tripathi

Fashion's tryst with fidelity has always been fraught; forget a new year, even a new season brings new favourites, whether it's silhouettes or fabrics. However, the beauty of fashion is that it blends the old with the new, and so the more it changes, the more it remains the same. This year is likely to be the same, while we will see new gender-fluid garments with technology playing a greater role, we will continue to celebrate our heritage and timeless handwork and artistry. Sustainability will continue to remain in focus with both designers and wearers becoming more conscious, and of course, the altar egos of brides and grooms will ensure that wedding couture continues to make a splash. For the next few pages, fashion designers turn forecasters to predict what lies ahead.

The India Story

There is no bigger brand ambassador for Indian craftsmanship and artistry than our wedding industry. And that will continue this year too. "2025 is going to be all about celebrating timeless artistry. Brides and grooms are embracing intricate handwork and classic techniques like mirror detailing, zardozi, and traditional embroidery. These elements make every outfit unique and rooted in heritage, which I believe adds a layer of emotional connection to every look," says designer Abhinav Mishra. But what is interesting is that Indian weaves are getting the limelight they deserve thanks to various designers working with them for their pret collections. "We expect updated versions of traditional textiles such as Ajrakh, Ikat and Banarasi silks in new colours and layouts which will continue to reinforce the popularity of Indian fashion," says designer duo Abraham & Thakore.