Draped in Power: Indian Designers on the World Stage

From couture ateliers to global spotlights, Indian designers are no longer emerging—they’re defining the look of modern celebrity.

By Moira Del Rosario April 27, 2026

Female singer in a red gown performing on stage, holding a microphone against a red curtain backdrop.

Rohmane

Seen on the members of KATSEYE, Rohmane takes a bold, daring approach. Her work is a study in unapologetic femininity—delicate fabrics meet caged bodices and meticulous beadwork. Worn by SZA, KATSEYE’s Sophia, Megan, and Lara, and her sister Rhea Raj, her designs fuse Indian heritage with a modern, high-glamour sensibility.

Portrait of a woman with curly red hair wearing a pale pink embellished two-piece outfit with flowing sleeves and a long, draped skirt, posing against a peach backdrop. — SZA

Person in a bright pink furry hood with ears, cropped pink top, and oversized black-and-white geometric pants posing on a stage. — Sophia Laforteza

Model in a turquoise beaded bustier, white fur coat, and a silver fringe mini skirt posing in a dark industrial setting. — Lara Raj

Gaurav Gupta

Renowned couturier Gaurav Gupta captivates with every collection. Defined by pure artistry, his sculptural designs command major stages, red carpets, and global showcases. He has dressed the likes of Alia Bhatt, British singer-songwriter Raye, Cardi B, Lisa Manoban, Adele, and Ashley Park—his work now synonymous with high-impact, sculptural couture.

Female singer in a flowing red gown performing on stage, holding a microphone close to her lips. — Raye

Rahul Mishra

From ready-to-wear to bespoke couture, Rahul Mishra stands as the first Indian designer invited to showcase at Paris Haute Couture Week. Rooted in sustainability, his philosophy reframes luxury as participation rather than consumption. By marrying slow fashion with intricate Indian craftsmanship, Mishra has dressed global names including Ariana Grande, Lisa Manoban, Sobhita Dhulipala, Tate McRae, Jennifer Lopez, and Zendaya.

Female singer performing on a lit stage in a black embellished gown with a high slit, holding a microphone. — Lisa Manoban

Black-and-white photo of a woman wearing a sculptural gown made from city-block shapes, resembling a skyline. — Tate McRae

Woman wearing a navy glitter gown with a sheer bodice and a floral-embellished train, posing against red curtains.

Sabyasachi

Long before sustainability became a buzzword, Sabyasachi was already championing conscious fashion. His work centers on heritage craftsmanship reimagined as modern heirlooms—seen on global platforms like New York Fashion Week. Worn by Rihanna, Sobhita Dhulipala, Rachel McAdams, and more, his designs embody timelessness with a deeply personal narrative.

Portrait of a woman wearing a sequined lavender saree with sheer embellished sleeves, posing against a gray backdrop, with chandelier earrings. — Sobhita Dhulipala

Smiling woman with long black hair, wearing a mustard-yellow top, bold red lipstick and multiple bracelets on her wrist. — Rihanna

A woman in a glittering gold dress speaks into a microphone, hands held at chest, wearing dangling gold earrings. — Rachel McAdams

Ashish Gupta

Joy. Glamour. Maximalism. Ashish Gupta’s work is instantly recognizable for its playful energy, bold color, and intricate hand embroidery. His designs radiate exuberance, earning a place on global stages and red carpets worn by Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, Cate Blanchett, Lady Gaga, and Selena Gomez.

Singer performing on stage with a red sequined gown, playing a red acoustic guitar in front of a microphone. — Taylor Swift

Portrait of a woman seated on a black stool, wearing a bright pink fur coat over a red sequin dress, with legs crossed against a dark background. — Kim Cattrall

Woman walking outdoors in a rainbow plaid jacket and matching skirt, white top, and turquoise beaded bag, smiling.

Indian fashion has grown to shape global narratives across red carpets, global stages, and media outlets. With a balance of heritage, innovation, and unmistakable identity, these designers have transcended borders, positioning India as a true powerhouse.

Featured Image and Photos: ROHMANE, GAURAV GUPTA, RAHUL MISHRA, SABYASACHI, ASHISH GUPTA (via Instagram)