Top 10 Ethnic Wear Brands in India: Celebrating Handcrafted Elegance

India’s ethnic wear industry is more than just fashion—it is a living expression of culture, heritage, craftsmanship, and storytelling. From handwoven textiles to intricate embroidery techniques passed down through generations, Indian ethnic wear continues to evolve while staying deeply rooted in tradition. Today, modern consumers are increasingly shifting toward handcrafted ethnic wear, valuing authenticity, sustainability, and originality over mass-produced clothing.

In this article, we explore the Top 10 Ethnic Wear Brands in India that have successfully blended traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. These brands stand out not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their commitment to artisans, handloom techniques, and slow fashion principles.

 

Why Handcrafted Ethnic Wear Is Trending in India

Before diving into the brands, it’s important to understand why handcrafted ethnic wear is witnessing massive demand:

• Authenticity & uniqueness: No two handcrafted garments are exactly the same.
• Support for artisans: Handcrafted fashion sustains local weavers and craft clusters.
• Sustainability: Natural fabrics, hand dyes, and ethical production reduce environmental impact.
• Cultural revival: Consumers are reconnecting with Indian textile heritage like Ajrakh, Ikat, Jamdani, Chikankari, and Kalamkari.

With this shift, ethnic wear brands that prioritize craftsmanship are becoming household names.

 

Top 10 Ethnic Wear Brands in India (Handcrafted & Heritage-Focused)

1. FabIndia

Category: Handloom & Sustainable Ethnic Wear

FabIndia is one of the most iconic ethnic wear brands in India. Known for its extensive use of handloom fabrics, natural dyes, and traditional techniques, FabIndia bridges the gap between rural artisans and urban consumers. From cotton kurtas and silk sarees to handcrafted accessories, the brand promotes ethical fashion on a large scale.

Why it stands out:

• Direct artisan partnerships
• Natural fabrics and dyes
• Everyday ethnic wear with timeless appeal

 

2. The Loom

Category: Curated Handcrafted Ethnic Wear

The Loom has emerged as a leading destination for handcrafted ethnic wear in India. The brand curates collections from skilled artisans and independent designers across the country. Known for its elegant kurta sets, co-ord sets, festive suits, and handloom fabrics, The Loom blends tradition with modern silhouettes.

Why it stands out:

• Strong focus on handloom and craftsmanship
• Trend-driven yet culturally rooted designs
• Ideal for festive, casual, and occasion wear

 

3. Biba

Category: Mainstream Ethnic Fashion

Biba is one of India’s most recognizable ethnic wear brands. While not entirely handcrafted, Biba incorporates traditional prints, embroidery styles, and Indian aesthetics into accessible, ready-to-wear designs. It’s especially popular for everyday ethnic and festive collections.

Why it stands out:

• Nationwide presence
• Vibrant prints and color palettes
• Affordable ethnic fashion

 

4. Suta

Category: Handwoven Sarees & Ethnic Wear

Suta is synonymous with handwoven love. Known for reviving traditional weaving techniques, especially Jamdani and cotton handloom sarees, Suta celebrates imperfections that come with handmade textiles. The brand has expanded into blouses, dresses, and ethnic sets while staying true to slow fashion.

Why it stands out:

• 100% handwoven textiles
• Storytelling-driven brand identity
• Deep connection to Indian craft traditions

 

5. Anita Dongre

Category: Luxury Handcrafted Ethnic Wear

Anita Dongre is a global name in Indian ethnic couture. The brand’s collections emphasize sustainability, traditional embroidery, and handcrafted details. From bridal lehengas to everyday luxury kurtas, Anita Dongre brings royal elegance with ethical values.

Why it stands out:

• Grassroot artisan initiatives
• Premium handcrafted bridal and festive wear
• Blend of luxury and sustainability

 

6. Okhai

Category: Artisan-Empowered Fashion

Okhai began as an initiative to empower rural women artisans and has now become a trusted handcrafted ethnic wear brand. The designs are minimal, earthy, and authentic—perfect for conscious consumers seeking comfort and culture in one outfit.

Why it stands out:

• Women-led artisan communities
• Hand embroidery and traditional crafts
• Ethical and transparent production

 

7. Raw Mango

Category: Heritage Handloom Revival

Raw Mango is celebrated for reviving age-old Indian textile traditions like Banarasi, Chanderi, and Ikat. The brand focuses on purity of fabric, colors inspired by nature, and traditional weaving techniques, making it a favorite among saree connoisseurs.

Why it stands out:

• Authentic handwoven sarees
• Strong textile research and revival
• Minimal yet powerful design language

 

8. W for Woman

Category: Contemporary Ethnic Wear

W for Woman is known for redefining ethnic wear for modern Indian women. While it leans more toward fusion fashion, the brand incorporates Indian prints, embroidery, and silhouettes suited for office and daily wear.

Why it stands out:

• Modern cuts with ethnic influence
• Perfect for workwear and casual styling
• Widely accessible across India

 

9. Chidiyaa

Category: Slow Fashion & Handcrafted Clothing

Chidiyaa is a niche handcrafted fashion label that emphasizes comfort, minimalism, and sustainability. The brand works closely with artisans to create garments using handloom cotton, natural dyes, and simple silhouettes.

Why it stands out:

• Minimalist handcrafted designs
• Focus on slow, mindful fashion
• Ideal for conscious everyday wear

 

10. Ritu Kumar

Category: Heritage & Designer Ethnic Wear

Ritu Kumar is a pioneer of Indian designer wear, known for reviving traditional block prints and embroidery techniques. The brand’s collections range from daily ethnic wear to bridal couture, all deeply rooted in Indian textile traditions.

Why it stands out:

• Decades of craftsmanship expertise
• Traditional embroidery and prints
• Timeless Indian elegance

 

What Makes Handcrafted Ethnic Wear Special?

Each garment reflects:

• Human touch: Skilled hands, not machines
• Regional identity: Every craft tells a regional story
• Longevity: High-quality craftsmanship ensures durability
• Emotional value: A sense of pride in wearing something meaningful

In an era of fast fashion, handcrafted ethnic wear allows consumers to slow down and reconnect with culture.

 

How to Choose the Right Ethnic Wear Brand in India

When selecting an ethnic wear brand, consider the following:

• Occasion: Everyday, festive, wedding, or office wear
• Fabric: Cotton, silk, handloom blends
• Craft technique: Block print, embroidery, weaving
• Brand values: Sustainability, artisan support, authenticity

Brands like The Loom, FabIndia, Suta, and Okhai are ideal if you prioritize handcrafted and ethical fashion.

 

The Indian ethnic wear market is flourishing, driven by a renewed appreciation for handcrafted fashion and cultural heritage. The Top 10 Ethnic Wear Brands in India listed above represent the perfect blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and modern sensibility. Whether you are dressing for a festive celebration, a casual day, or a special occasion, choosing handcrafted ethnic wear ensures style with soul.

As Indian consumers become more conscious, handcrafted ethnic wear is no longer a niche—it is the future of fashion.