Craft, identity and influence: The rise of Indian diaspora designers

Bridging cultures through fashion

Indian diaspora designers are gaining recognition on the world fashion stage, bringing a unique blend of tradition and innovation. With strong connection to Indian craftsmanship and global influences, these designers are captivating international audiences with their work.

From New York to London and Milan to Paris, Indian diaspora designers are stepping into the global spotlight like never before. Through collaborations with international artists, showcases at major fashion weeks and strong support from the South Asian diaspora, these creatives are redefining what it means to represent Indian fashion on the world stage.

Their work blends heritage craftsmanship with global style, making them favourites among stylists and celebrities.

Namita Khade

Namita Khade, a London-based designer, is known for her thoughtful, minimalist fashion that explores body, structure and identity. A graduate of Central Saint Martins, her knitwear collection, one of the standouts, is a reference to the vividly decorated trucks that she remembers seeing on trips to India.

Namita has gained attention in fashion publications like i-D, Vogue and Dazed and her designs have been featured in exhibitions and fashion campaigns across the United Kingdom.

Harri KS

Harikrishnan Keezhathil Surendran Pillai, known as Harri KS, is a Kerala-born, London-based menswear designer whose work has redefined the boundaries of fashion and masculinity. A graduate of the London College of Fashion, Harri rose to global prominence with his 2019 MA collection, featuring inflatable latex trousers that went viral for their surreal silhouettes and sculptural quality.

His most iconic moment came in 2023, when Sam Smith wore a custom black inflatable suit by Harri to the BRIT Awards,

Bibhu Mohapatra

Bibhu Mohapatra is a New York-based fashion designer renowned for his luxurious eveningwear that fuses Indian artisanal techniques with Western silhouettes. Born in Rourkela, Odisha, he initially pursued a master’s degree in economics before shifting to fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York.

His breakthrough moment came in 2015 when First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama wore his floral-print dress and silk-and-wool coat during her visit to India. Since then, Mohapatra has dressed numerous celebrities, including Priyanka Chopra, Hilary Swank and Lupita Nyong’o, for prestigious events such as the Met Gala, Oscars and Cannes red carpet.

Sachin and Babi

Sachin and Babi is a fashion label based in New York, founded in 2009 by husband-and-wife duo Sachin and Babi Ahluwalia, both originally from India. They are known for creating beautiful, colourful gowns and ready-to-wear pieces that blend traditional Indian embroidery with contemporary Western styles.

Their designs have been worn by famous personalities such as Michelle Obama, Kerry Washington, and Chrissy Teigen at major events. In 2019, Michelle Obama wore one of their sparkling trousersuits to the Grammy Awards, bringing significant attention to the brand.

Shalini Misra

Though primarily celebrated for her work in interior design, Shalini Misra’s influence in global luxury circles has increasingly extended into fashion and art. She founded Curio, a platform that highlights handcrafted art and design from around the world, especially focusing on Indian artisanship.

One of her biggest achievements is creating the Shakti Design Residency, which brings together international designers and Indian craftsmen to make unique pieces celebrating India’s heritage. Her work often features at important events like the London Design Festival.