India is home to one of the most diverse and vibrant cultures in the world. Its traditional clothing at The Loom, from elegant sarees to regal lehengas and stylish kurtas, showcases the richness of its heritage. Over the years, the Indian ethnic wear industry has evolved, blending modern trends with centuries-old craftsmanship. Whether it’s for a wedding, festival, or a casual get-together, there are numerous brands offering ethnic wear that reflects both tradition and contemporary style.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top 5 ethnic wear brands in India, spotlight The Loom, and dive into the beauty of handcrafted ethnic wear, a rising trend in the fashion world.
1. Fabindia: A Legacy of Handcrafted Artistry
Founded in 1960, Fabindia is a household name when it comes to ethnic wear in India. The brand’s mission is to offer unique, handcrafted clothing made by artisans from across the country. Fabindia focuses on the finest natural fabrics, such as cotton, linen, and silk, bringing traditional techniques like hand-block printing, embroidery, and weaving to the forefront.
Fabindia’s ethnic wear collection includes a wide range of products, from chikankari kurtas to bandhani sarees, making it the go-to brand for anyone seeking a blend of tradition and comfort. The brand also promotes sustainable and ethical practices by working directly with rural artisans, empowering them through fair trade practices.
Fabindia’s clothing is perfect for those who love classic styles with a modern twist. Whether you’re looking for a simple kurta to wear to a family gathering or an elegant saree for a wedding, Fabindia has something for every occasion.
2. The Loom: A Journey Through Handcrafted Ethnic Wear
Among the new-age brands that are making waves in the Indian ethnic wear market is The Loom. This brand is a beacon for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and the charm of handmade clothing. Established in 2015, The Loom specializes in curated collections of handwoven and handcrafted ethnic wear that celebrates the beauty of Indian textile traditions.
The Loom is passionate about preserving and promoting traditional art forms, working with artisans from all corners of India. Its collections feature handloom sarees, embroidered kurtas, kalamkari dupattas, and more, often using eco-friendly dyes and fabrics. The Loom’s designs are simple yet elegant, offering contemporary silhouettes that appeal to modern sensibilities.
What makes The Loom stand out is its commitment to quality and authenticity. The brand emphasizes that each piece of clothing tells a story — whether it’s the intricate weaves from Kanchipuram, the vibrant colors of Rajasthan, or the delicate embroidery from Lucknow. By blending these ancient art forms with contemporary designs, The Loom has created a niche for itself in the world of handcrafted ethnic wear.
3. Biba: Stylish, Affordable, and Trendy
Founded in 1986, Biba is one of the most recognizable ethnic wear brands in India. With its unique combination of traditional and contemporary designs, Biba has garnered a large customer base among women of all ages.
Biba’s clothing line includes a wide range of kurtas, salwar kameez sets, lehengas, sarees, and ethnic dresses. The brand also offers fusion wear, which combines western styles with ethnic elements, perfect for casual wear or semi-formal occasions.
Whether you are looking for an elegant piece for a festive occasion or a stylish outfit for daily wear, Biba has something that fits every need. The brand also focuses on offering plus-size clothing, making it inclusive for women of all shapes and sizes.
4. Manyavar: The Ultimate Wedding Destination
When it comes to ethnic wear for weddings and other celebrations, Manyavar is the first name that comes to mind for most people. Manyavar is a leader in the ethnic wear market for men and women, with its roots firmly planted in the wedding wear segment. Founded in 1999, the brand offers an impressive range of sherwanis, lehenga cholis, anarkalis, and kurta-pajama sets.
Manyavar’s clothing is designed to give a royal, regal feel, with intricate embroidery, luxurious fabrics like velvet and silk, and stunning embellishments. The brand has made ethnic wear glamorous and high-end, particularly for weddings and grand celebrations.
With the launch of its women’s wear collection under the name Mohey, Manyavar expanded its offerings, ensuring that bridesmaids and brides alike could enjoy its exquisite designs. If you’re looking for a piece that screams luxury, Manyavar is the go-to brand.
5. W for Woman: Fusion Ethnic Wear for the Modern Woman
W for Woman has become synonymous with trendy ethnic wear that suits the modern Indian woman. Founded in 2001, W for Woman blends traditional and western styles to create fusion wear that works for both casual outings and semi-formal events. The brand’s collection includes indigo printed kurtas, palazzo sets, and dhoti pants — all crafted with comfort and style in mind.
The appeal of W for Woman lies in its ability to bring together ethnic elements like block prints, embroidery, and cotton fabrics with contemporary cuts and silhouettes. The brand is perfect for women who want to embrace ethnic wear without sacrificing modern aesthetics.
The Charm of Handcrafted Ethnic Wear
While mainstream brands continue to dominate the ethnic wear scene, a growing number of fashion enthusiasts are turning toward handcrafted ethnic wear. Unlike mass-produced clothing, handcrafted garments are made with meticulous attention to detail and reflect the personal touch of artisans. In India, handcrafted ethnic wear is not just a fashion statement but also a way to preserve traditional arts and empower local communities.
Handcrafted clothing, whether it’s a handwoven saree from Varanasi or an embroidered kurta from Lucknow, tells a unique story of heritage, craftsmanship, and culture. These garments carry the legacy of skilled artisans who spend hours perfecting their craft, whether it’s weaving intricate patterns on a loom or stitching delicate embroidery by hand.
One of the key benefits of handcrafted ethnic wear is its sustainability. Since these clothes are made in small batches, they are less likely to contribute to the environmental degradation caused by mass production. Moreover, many brands like The Loom and Fabindia prioritize eco-friendly materials, such as organic cotton and natural dyes, in their collections.
When you wear handcrafted ethnic wear, you’re not just dressing up for an occasion — you’re also supporting traditional craftsmanship and fair trade practices. It’s a way to celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage while contributing to the livelihood of artisans and communities across the country.
As the demand for sustainable and unique fashion grows, ethnic wear brands like The Loom are carving out a niche in the fashion industry by prioritizing craftsmanship, sustainability, and tradition. While legacy brands like Fabindia and Biba continue to offer timeless designs, newer players are embracing the blend of handcraft with modern designs, ensuring that the richness of Indian culture remains relevant and accessible to the global market.
From intricate handwoven textiles to vibrant prints and delicate embroidery, the Indian ethnic wear industry is continuously evolving. Whether you’re drawn to classic designs or love the fusion of tradition and modernity, there’s a brand out there that offers something perfect for you.
If you’re looking for authenticity, quality, and style that resonates with India’s artistic soul, exploring handcrafted ethnic wear from brands like The Loom might just be the way to go. After all, there’s no better way to celebrate the country’s rich cultural heritage than by donning a piece of its legacy.

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