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Challenges and Opportunities in Inclusive and Adaptive Fashion for People with Disabilities in India

The intersection of fashion and social inclusion is an area that holds immense potential for positive impact. In India, where diversity is celebrated, the fashion industry still faces significant hurdles in embracing true inclusivity and adaptability, especially for people with disabilities. Addressing these challenges presents an opportunity for meaningful change and innovation in the industry.

Awareness and Representation: The First Hurdle

The vibrant and diverse fashion industry in India often falls short of representing people with disabilities. This lack of representation extends beyond visibility and translates into a gap in understanding and addressing the unique needs of this community. When individuals with disabilities are not seen on runways, in advertisements, or design discussions, their voices remain unheard, perpetuating a cycle of exclusivity in fashion.

Design and Functionality: Bridging the Gap

Adaptive fashion requires a thoughtful and innovative approach to design. It’s about reimagining fashion to ensure comfort, ease of use, and aesthetic appeal for all. Features such as magnetic buttons, adjustable waistbands, and sensory-friendly fabrics are essential for many. However, the mainstream fashion industry in India has been slow to adopt these innovations broadly. Close collaboration between designers, brands, and the disability community is crucial to co-create solutions that are both practical and stylish.

Economic Barriers: Making Fashion Accessible

Affordability remains a critical issue. Adaptive clothing often comes at a premium due to specialized designs and limited production runs, making it prohibitively expensive for many people with disabilities in India. Addressing this requires a concerted effort to make inclusive fashion economically accessible. This can involve leveraging technology to streamline production, seeking government incentives, or encouraging mainstream brands to incorporate adaptive lines into their collections.

Social Perceptions: Changing Mindsets

Societal attitudes towards disabilities also pose a significant challenge. In many parts of India, disabilities are viewed through a lens of pity or charity rather than empowerment and normalcy. Changing these perceptions is crucial, and inclusive and adaptive fashion can play a transformative role in this regard. By showcasing people with disabilities as fashionable and empowered, the narrative can shift from one of limitations to one of possibilities.

Moving Forward: A Call to Action

The path forward involves collaboration, innovation, and empathy. The fashion industry, policymakers, and society need to work together to create an environment where inclusive and adaptive fashion can thrive. This means investing in research and development, fostering inclusive design education, and amplifying the voices of people with disabilities within the fashion community.

The challenge is to think beyond traditional norms and embrace a future where fashion truly belongs to everyone. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards – a more inclusive, diverse, and compassionate society – are well worth the effort.

Together, significant strides can be made in making fashion a realm where every individual, regardless of ability, feels seen, valued, and stylish.

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How the Fashion Industry Can Lead on Labour Rights This May Day

Every year on May 1st, International Workers’ Day, also known as May Day, we’re reminded of the crucial role labourers play in every sector worldwide, including the fashion industry. As a celebration of the working classes, May Day offers a poignant moment for reflection and action within the fashion sector, an industry often under scrutiny for its labour practices across global supply chains.

The Current State of Fashion Labour Practices

The fashion industry, with its vast, complex, and often opaque supply chains, has been at the centre of numerous labour rights controversies. From the devastating Rana Plaza factory collapse in 2013 to ongoing reports of unfair wages and hazardous working conditions, the need for reform has never been clearer. While some brands have made strides towards transparency and better labour practices, there is a pressing need for industry-wide changes.

Potential for Positive Impact

The fashion industry, influential and visible, has the potential to set trends not just in style but in social responsibility. This May Day, it’s time for brands to reevaluate their roles. How can they become champions of fair labour practices? It begins with transparency—knowing and disclosing where garments are made and under what conditions. But it doesn’t end there. Brands must also actively invest in the communities where their products are made.

Initiatives That Make a Difference

Fair Wage Systems: Implementing living wage commitments that go beyond minimum wage standards to ensure workers can live with dignity.

Safety Improvements: Invest in safer facilities and proper training to avoid tragedies like Rana Plaza.

Worker Empowerment: Supporting the formation of independent trade unions and worker committees to give a voice to those on the factory floor.

Partnerships for Change: Collaborating with NGOs, governments, and other stakeholders to foster a more equitable industry landscape.

Conclusion

This May Day, let’s weave a narrative of positive change through the fashion industry. By committing to fundamental improvements in how we treat our workers, fashion brands can lead by example. The road to reform is long, but with each step, we stitch a stronger, more equitable fabric for the future of fashion.

As consumers, it’s crucial to support brands that prioritize workers’ rights and contribute to a sustainable and ethical fashion industry. Ask #WhoMadeMyClothes and demand transparency and fairness. Let’s make every day a day for workers’ rights in fashion.

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Trending Threads- Myntra’s Fashion Insights

In the fast-paced world of fashion, staying ahead of the curve is paramount for entrepreneurs looking to make their mark. Myntra’s recent release of the ‘Myntra Trend Index’ offers a treasure trove of insights into India’s ever-evolving fashion scene. Let’s roll into the highlights and discover how entrepreneurs can leverage this invaluable resource to drive success.

Consumer Trends The Pulse of Indian Fashion

The ‘Myntra Trend Index’ provides a comprehensive overview of consumer trends, shedding light on everything from colour preferences to style choices. With millions of data points at their disposal, entrepreneurs can gain a deeper understanding of their target audience and tailor their offerings accordingly.

Captivating GenZ Shaping the Future of Fashion

GenZ is at the forefront of fashion innovation, driving trends and pushing boundaries. From varsity jackets to bold graphic tees, this demographic is redefining style norms. Entrepreneurs who can tap into the preferences of GenZ consumers will find themselves at the forefront of the industry’s evolution.

Regional Nuances

Each city in India has its own unique style identity, and entrepreneurs must adapt their strategies accordingly. From the denim capital of Delhi to the kurta capital of Kolkata, understanding regional preferences is key to success. By customizing product offerings and marketing strategies, entrepreneurs can resonate with local tastes and drive engagement.

Innovation is the lifeblood of the fashion industry, and entrepreneurs must embrace change to stay relevant. By leveraging insights from the ‘Myntra Trend Index’ and staying attuned to emerging trends, entrepreneurs can position themselves as leaders in the field. From premium offerings to GenZ-inspired designs, the possibilities for innovation are endless.

Conclusion

The launch of the ‘Myntra Trend Index marks a significant milestone in the fashion industry, offering entrepreneurs a roadmap for success. By decoding consumer trends, understanding GenZ preferences, and embracing regional nuances, entrepreneurs can stay ahead of the curve and drive growth in an ever-changing market. With the right insights and strategies, the future of fashion entrepreneurship is brighter than ever before.

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From Rana Plaza to Fashion Revolution- Commemorating a Tragedy with a Worldwide Demand for Ethical Fashion

On April 24, 2013, the global fashion industry faced one of its darkest days when the Rana Plaza building in Dhaka, Bangladesh, collapsed. Over 1,100 lives were lost, and thousands more were left injured. The aftermath revealed the perilous conditions faced by garment workers and sparked an international outcry. The visual impact of the tragedy was profound—images of the rubble with garments bearing the tags of global brands starkly illustrated the link between consumer products and the workers who make them.

In the hours and days following the collapse, photos circulated showing victims clutching clothing tags from international brands. These poignant images served as a visual testimony to the harsh realities of garment manufacturing, highlighting the personal cost hidden behind the price tags of global fashion.

A Revolution Born from Tragedy

The public’s reaction to these images was one of horror and disbelief, leading to an urgent call for change across the industry. This led to the inception of the Fashion Revolution, a movement dedicated to ensuring such a tragedy never occurs again. One of the significant changes advocated by the movement is the push for greater transparency in the fashion supply chain.

In response, some brands have begun to adopt more transparent practices, including providing information on garment tags not just about the material and care instructions, but also about the workers who made the clothes. These tags sometimes list the name of the worker or the factory where the garment was made, offering consumers a direct link to the origin of their clothing. This practice aims to humanize the production process, reminding consumers of the real people behind their apparel.

Advocating for Systematic Change

The Fashion Revolution has grown into a global phenomenon, with participants and supporters from all over the world. Each year during Fashion Revolution Week, consumers, activists, and brands come together to honour the victims of Rana Plaza by advocating for systemic changes that prioritize worker safety, fair wages, and environmental sustainability.

The movement’s central message, encapsulated by the query “Who made my clothes?” encourages a critical examination of fashion consumption habits. It challenges individuals and companies alike to consider the social and environmental impacts of their practices and to strive for an industry that respects both people and the planet.

Closing

“Remember, change begins with a single question. This Fashion Revolution Week, ask, ‘Who made my clothes?’ and be a part of transforming our fashion industry.”

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Celebrating World Book Day-How Fashion Writers and Editors are Weaving the Future of the Industry

Today, on World Book Day, while many celebrate the authors of bestselling novels and acclaimed biographies, it’s the perfect occasion to turn the spotlight to a group whose influence we wear, perhaps unknowingly, every day. Fashion writers and editors are the architects behind the glossy pages that shape our sartorial choices, yet their role in sculpting our fashion landscape often goes unnoticed.

The Pen- Mightier Than the Sword in Fashion

Fashion journalism has evolved from simple trend reporting to a robust platform that influences public perception and dictates industry standards. Icons like Anna Wintour and AndrÃĐ Leon Talley didn’t just report on fashion; they became the very pulse of it, guiding its shifts and narrating its cultural context. Their work has demonstrated that fashion isn’t just about apparel; it’s a vivid expression of social and artistic currents.

Crafting Trends- The Editors’ Cut

Fashion editors wield a unique kind of power. They curate looks that end up defining entire seasons. The selections they make influence not just what we wear, but also how designers shape their upcoming collections. On the other side, fashion writers dig beneath the surface, exploring the nuances of sustainability, ethics, and innovation. They offer us a deeper understanding of fashion as an industry and cultural phenomenon, highlighting issues that matter.

Digital Evolution- Broadening Horizons

The migration from print to digital has significantly widened the scope and impact of fashion writing. Digital platforms allow for instant global reach and interaction, transforming fashion journalism into a dynamic conversation rather than a one-way narrative. This shift has democratized the field, introducing voices from diverse backgrounds who bring fresh perspectives and challenge old narratives, particularly around topics like inclusivity and environmental responsibility.

Facing Challenges Head-On

Despite their influence, fashion writers and editors face significant challenges. The rapid pace of the industry demands quick turnarounds on complex stories, often balancing depth with deadlines. Moreover, navigating the delicate balance between editorial integrity and the lucrative allure of advertising poses a constant challenge.

A Call to Action- Supporting Fashion Journalism

As we celebrate World Book Day, let’s extend our appreciation to these pivotal players in the fashion world. Engage with their articles, subscribe to fashion magazines, share their stories on social media, and participate in the dialogue they are shaping. Each interaction supports their work and, by extension, the thoughtful examination of fashion’s role in our world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the narratives spun by fashion writers and editors dress more than our bodies—they inform our views, inspire our choices, and influence our cultural dialogues. This World Book Day, let’s acknowledge and celebrate these indispensable contributors to not only fashion but also our understanding of beauty, sustainability, and culture. As Diana Vreeland famously said, “Fashion is part of the daily air and it changes all the time, with all the events. You can even see the approaching of a revolution in clothes. You can see and feel everything in clothes.”

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Celebrating World Earth Day- A Call to Action for Fashion Startups

Every year on April 22, Earth Day marks a global commitment to environmental protection—a tradition that began in 1970 following widespread public concern over environmental degradation. Initiated by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson after witnessing the impacts of the 1969 Santa Barbara oil spill, Earth Day has since become a momentous event, recognized by over 1 billion people across 193 countries. This day serves not only as a reminder of our shared responsibility to steward the environment but also as a catalyst for ongoing commitment to sustainable practices.

The Positive Shift in Fashion

Historically, the fashion industry has been a significant contributor to environmental challenges, such as excessive water use, pollution, and landfill waste. However, in recent years, there has been a transformative shift towards sustainability within the industry. Fashion brands and startups are now at the forefront of this positive change, rethinking materials, processes, and business models to reduce their environmental impact and ensure a sustainable future.

Innovative Practices Redefining Fashion

As we celebrate Earth Day, let’s explore the innovative practices that are helping fashion startups contribute to environmental sustainability:

Eco-friendly Materials: There’s an increasing shift towards using renewable materials that require less water and chemicals. Organic cotton, recycled fabrics, and alternative materials like hemp and bamboo are becoming the norm in collections.

Circular Fashion Models: Many startups are designing products with their entire lifecycle in mind, promoting circularity through recycling and upcycling. This approach not only minimizes waste but also encourages a more sustainable consumption pattern among consumers.

Supply Chain Transparency: Transparency is key in building trust and ensuring sustainability in fashion. More brands are disclosing their manufacturing processes and choosing suppliers who prioritize environmental and ethical practices.

Local Production: To reduce carbon footprints, numerous fashion companies are bringing production closer to their primary markets. This practice not only lowers emissions but also supports local economies.

Inspiring Facts and Figures

Impact of Earth Day Awareness: Earth Day campaigns have led to significant environmental legislation in the U.S., including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act.

Consumer Trends: According to the 2020 McKinsey Report on the State of Fashion, 67% of consumers consider the use of sustainable materials to be an important purchasing factor.

Reduction in Waste: If the life of clothing were extended by just nine months, it could reduce carbon, water, and waste footprints by around 20-30% each.

The Ongoing Journey

This Earth Day, as we reflect on our planet’s vulnerabilities and our responsibilities, it’s encouraging to see the fashion industry play a proactive role in promoting sustainability. Fashion startups are increasingly recognized not just for their innovative designs but also for their commitment to sustainable practices that respect both people and the planet.

As emerging leaders in the fashion industry, startups have a pivotal role in continuing this momentum. By embedding sustainable practices at the core of their operations, they can make a significant difference, paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious fashion industry.

Let’s continue to support and celebrate these initiatives, not just today, but every day. Together, we can ensure that the fashion industry remains a powerful force for good in our global efforts to protect and preserve our environment.

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From Ethnic Charm to Corporate Strategy- The Rise of Fashion as a Business Imperative

In a remarkable testament to the burgeoning appeal of the fashion industry among diversified conglomerates, the Tata Group is reportedly in advanced discussions to acquire a stake in Fabindia, a premier ethnic wear brand in India. This potential acquisition, expected to be a major shake-up in the fashion retail sector, underscores a wider trend where traditional industries are increasingly venturing into fashion retailing.

The Shift in Fashion Industry Dynamics

Overview of the Deal

The talks between the Tata group and Fabindia signal a pivotal movement towards the integration of ethnic wear into mainstream corporate portfolios. While the exact details remain under wraps, the acquisition is seen as a strategic addition to Tata’s retail arm Trent, which already features brands like Westside, Zudio, and Utsa. This move could potentially become the largest deal in the segment following Aditya Birla Fashion Retail’s acquisition of a controlling stake in TCNS Clothing.

Industry Context

This trend of major corporations diving into fashion isn’t isolated. It reflects a broader recognition of the sector’s robust growth potential and its significant role in a diversified business model. The ethnic wear market, characterized by its rich tradition and widespread cultural acceptance, presents a lucrative canvas for conglomerates like Tata, known for their deep pockets and expansive retail strategies.

Why Fashion? Why Now?

Market Potential

The ethnic apparel market in India is not just about clothing; it’s a vibrant ecosystem ripe for growth, innovation, and large-scale development. It offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, appealing to a diverse consumer base ranging from young urbanites to traditionalists across global diasporas.

Strategic Fit

Fabindia’s commitment to traditional techniques and sustainable sourcing meshes well with the Tata group’s ethos of integrating sustainability into its business practices. The acquisition would enable Tata to leverage Fabindia’s established brand presence and extensive retail network, thereby enhancing its footprint in the ethnic wear market.

Challenges and Opportunities

Operational Challenges

Despite its brand strength, Fabindia has faced financial strains, evidenced by its retreat from a planned IPO and the need for funds to rejuvenate its product lines and reduce debt. These challenges highlight the critical areas where Tata’s expertise in operational management and capital infusion could bring much-needed stability and growth.

Opportunities for Revitalization

For Tata, revitalizing Fabindia could mean tapping into advanced analytics to understand consumer preferences, redesigning product offerings to align with contemporary trends, and exploring new markets domestically and internationally.

Conclusion

The Tata Group’s potential acquisition of Fabindia is more than just a business transaction; it represents a strategic acknowledgement of the fashion industry’s potential as a driver of growth and innovation. This move could serve as a blueprint for other conglomerates contemplating diversification into fashion retail, offering key insights into leveraging traditional strengths in a modern marketplace.

For startups and emerging businesses in fashion, this development is a clarion call to understand the importance of scalability, brand positioning, and the integration of cultural ethos with modern business practices. As the landscape evolves, the intersection of traditional apparel and corporate strategy will likely herald new growth trajectories in the global fashion industry.

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The Rapid Expansion of Rareism- A Reflection of the Growing Fashion Business in India

Rareism, a prominent women’s fashion brand under Bengaluru-based fashion retailer The House of Rare, has recently celebrated the opening of its third outlet in Hyderabad. This significant development not only adds to the brand’s growing presence but also underscores the dynamic expansion of the fashion industry in India.

A Milestone in Market Presence

The opening of Rareism’s new 650 sqft outlet in Hyderabad is a milestone, marking the brand’s 30th store across India. The event, graced by actor Sreeleela, highlighted the brand’s commitment to accessibility and its influence in the fashion landscape. This expansion is a testament to Rareism’s robust growth strategy and its understanding of market demands.

Designing Unique Shopping Experiences

Rareism has been known for its “desk to dinner” approach, offering versatile, fashion-forward clothing that caters to a wide array of women’s needs and preferences. The design of the new store emphasizes providing a unique shopping experience that attracts and retains discerning customers. This approach is crucial in a competitive market where personalization and experience are as important as the products offered.

The Business of Fashion in India

The expansion of Rareism reflects broader trends in the Indian fashion industry, which is currently experiencing unprecedented growth. As international brands continue to enter the market, domestic brands like Rareism are not just competing but are carving out distinct niches by aligning closely with the cultural and fashion sensibilities of local consumers.

Business Head of Rareism, Abhishek Srivastava, articulates this vision clearly, stating, “Rareism is India’s answer to European fashion.” This statement not only highlights the brand’s ambition but also its commitment to creating offerings that resonate with the modern Indian woman, who is as multifaceted in her roles as in her fashion choices.

The Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Rareism aims to become a one-stop destination for women’s fashion, leveraging its understanding of local tastes and global trends. The continued expansion of Rareism is indicative of a larger momentum within the fashion industry, driven by economic growth, increasing consumer spending, and digital penetration.

The growing number of store openings like that of Rareism is a clear signal that the fashion market in India is ripe with opportunities. Brands that innovate in product design, customer experience, and market penetration are well-positioned to capitalize on this growth.

Conclusion

The fashion industry’s expansion in India is an exciting narrative of adaptation, innovation, and success. As Rareism continues to expand its footprint, it serves as a prime example of how brands can thrive by being in tune with their consumers’ evolving tastes and lifestyles. It is an inspiring model for others in the industry, demonstrating that growth is not only about opening more stores but also about making each location a beacon of style and substance.

Keep an eye on how Rareism and similar brands continue to evolve and influence the fashion sector both in India and globally.

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The Evolving Fashion Ecosystem-How Emerging Platforms are Redefining Retail

The digital transformation has entered an exciting new phase where conventional industries are breaking boundaries to include fashion retail as a key element of their business strategy. One standout example is the recent strategic move by Ola, primarily known for its ride-hailing services, which is now venturing into the realms of groceries and fashion retail through the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).

The Shift to Fashion

Ola’s decision to integrate fashion and apparel shopping into its app is not just an expansion but a significant pivot towards diversification in response to evolving consumer demands. With an existing user base of 75 million monthly active users, Ola’s integration with ONDC paves the way for a seamless entry into the retail space, offering access to thousands of fashion sellers. This move is reflective of a larger trend where companies are leveraging technology to blur the lines between different types of services, providing more value to their users.

ONDC as a Catalyst

ONDC’s role is critical in this transition. Designed as a protocol to democratize digital commerce, it offers a platform where multiple sellers can showcase their products across various segments, including fashion. For Ola, using ONDC means there’s no need to set up a separate logistics arm for these new offerings or convince brands to join their platform separately. It’s cost-effective and efficient, enabling Ola to focus on what they do best – enhancing customer experience and satisfaction.

Strategic Benefits

The integration of fashion retail into Ola’s app is expected to not only diversify its revenue streams but also strengthen its core offerings including logistics. The firm’s revenue surged by 58% in FY23, while its overall losses narrowed by 65%, indicating a robust underlying business model ready for this expansive step.

Moreover, this development is a testament to the growing symbiosis between technology and fashion. It represents a broader shift in the fashion industry, which is increasingly becoming entwined with digital innovations, offering consumers more touchpoints and convenience than ever before.

Looking Ahead

As fashion continues to embrace digital platforms, the growth opportunities are immense. From enhancing consumer accessibility to creating new avenues for personalized shopping experiences, platforms like Ola and ONDC are setting the stage for a new era in fashion retail.

This evolution signifies more than just business expansion; it’s a redefinition of consumer interaction with fashion, making it more integrated into daily activities and services. As we continue to monitor these developments, one thing is clear: the intersection of technology and fashion is just beginning to unveil its potential.

Conclusion

The integration of fashion into platforms like Ola via ONDC is a clear indicator of the transformative shifts occurring across industries today. As businesses adapt and align with these changes, the fashion industry stands to benefit greatly, heralding a new age of consumer engagement and business innovation.

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A Starry Night: Mumbai witnesses the 4th Edition Of FEF India Fashion Awards

The 4th edition of the FEF India Fashion Awards was held on the 7th & 8th, March ’24 at St. Regis, Mumbai. From artisans to fashion photographers, makeup artists, stylists, models and some of the most celebrated designers – Indian and international – they painted the fashion landscape with bright and sparkly hues.

Revolving around the theme ‘Fashion for Good’, the conclave began with an inaugural ceremony by Mr. Sa’ad Al Qaddumi, President, World Crafts Council-International, Dr. Darlie Koshy, Ex. Chairperson, NIFT, Creator, NDP, Fashion Designer, Celeb Stylist, Entrepreneur, Mr. Sanjay Nigam, Founder, FEF India Fashion Awards, Mr. Vinod Dugar, Co-promoter of RDB Group, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Malawi, and Ms. Neeva Jain, Chief Public Relations Officer, FEF IFA. The conclave also included a panel ‘Fashion in Films’ with Bollywood personalities including Masaba Gupta, Tamanna Bhatia, and Rajeev Masand who directed their interaction towards Bollywood’s approach on sustainable fashion.

The award ceremony on March 8 sparkled with the presence of Bollywood’s style icons, including film Karan Johar, Sara Ali Khan, Dia Mirza, Anaita Shroff Adajania, Orry, Siddharth Malhotra, and Disha Patani, adding an extra dose of glamour to the event.

FEF India Fashion Awards, known for acknowledging diversity in the fashion industry, honored over 30 unique talents from the Indian fashion and craft space.

Under the category Outstanding performance in the field of Arts, Crafts and Textiles, Rita Das was awarded for water hyacinth craft, Anil Vangad, Rajeev Pulavar for leather puppet craft, Shailesh Pandit for ceramic work, Tejshi Dhana Marwada and son Hira Marwada for Tang making were honored. These local artisans were felicitated for their exceptional craftsmanship.

The contribution of the young and budding talents were acknowledged through the ‘New Wave’ categories. Former fashion editor Daniel Franklin won New Wave Fashion Photographer of the Year. Lakme New Wave Makeup Artist of the Year was awarded to Kiran Denzongpa. Sasha Jairam, renowned fashion photographer took home New Wave Fashion Photographer of the Year trophy. Show director Lokesh Sharma was awarded New Wave Show Director of the Year whereas the model category included Ujjwal Dhir and Mahieka Sharma for New Wave model of the year Male and New Wave model of the Year Female respectively. Model of the year (International Fame) went to Naman Narnolia, Pepsi Model Of The Year (Male) Shivam Dhar Dubey and Pepsi Model Of The Year (Female) Dayenna Errapa. Mayank, Ada Malik, Deepti Sadhwani, Aguo, Ishita Mangal, Glorious Luna stood in the spotlight receiving the ‘Dromen & Co FEF- IFA SPOTLIGHT’ trophy.

This time, the Fashion Writer of the Year trophy was awarded to The Hindu Sunday Magazine Editor, Rosella Stephen. Longform PR Agency owners Pareina Thapar and Neeta Raheja received the award for Fashion PR Representative of the year. Talent agency Inega won Mario Talent Management agency of the year.

The production heads took their deserved credits in the categories of Music Director of the Year Nishant Gadhok, Outstanding Performance in Light & Sound Becket, Backstage Manager Of The Year Pujan Kapoor Sharma, Mario Fashion Photographer Of The Year Tarun Vishwa and Show Director Of The Year Aparna & Anisha.

Many well acclaimed Indian designers, stylists and fashion personalities cheered by their fellow stalwarts for the following categories.

Indian designer Anita Dongre was awarded Wildstone code Fashion show of the year, Mitsubishi Hall of Fame Leena Singh, Mitsubishi Hall of Fame Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, Mitsubishi Hall of Fame Mickey Contractor, Designer Of The Year Handlooms & Textiles Gaurang Shah, FEF Fashion Business Personality of the year Ananya Birla, Dormen & Co Fashion Stylist Of The Year Rahul Vijay, Lakme Makeup Artist Of The Year Daniel Bauer, BMW Experience club New Age Designer of the year Bloni, Accessory Designer Of the Year Outhouse, Mario Urban Label of the year No Grey area, Mario Fashion Label Of the Year Khanijo, Resort Wear Designer Of the Year Shivan & Narresh, Designer of the year- International Fame Gaurav Gupta, Designer Of The Year Couture Shantanu & Nikhil, Designer of the Year (Popular Choice) Rohit Gandhi & Rahul Khanna, Designer Of The Year Men’s Wear Kunal Rawal, and Pepsi Designer Of The Year was presented to Manish Malhotra.

From Bollywood, the following icons were honored— Environmental Changemaker of the year Dia Mirza, Fashion ambassador of the year Sidharth Malhotra, Pepsi Fashion Trendsetter of the year Sara Ali Khan, Pepsi Influential Fashion Personality of the year Tania Shroff, Pepsi Unconventional Trailblazer Award Orry.

What Mumbai in fact witnessed was indeed a starry night. The fashion fraternity stood strong with their fellow nominees and friends from the industry.

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