Each year, emerging designers step into the spotlight, redefining creativity and shaping new perspectives in fashion. Bringing a fresh approach to Indian fashion, these young talents introduce innovative designs, global influences, contemporary silhouettes, and avant-garde collections. What truly sets the next generation of labels apart, however, is their ability to align with the evolving preferences of modern shoppers.
Recognising the fresh energy these designers bring and India’s talent for nurturing creative minds, Lakmē Fashion Week, in association with FDCI, introduced the NIF Global Presents GenNext Designers Program as part of its biannual event. Over the years, the NIF Global Presents GenNext Designers Program has discovered some of the country's most celebrated names, including Rahul Mishra, Pero by Aneeth Arora, Masaba Gupta, Kanika Goyal, and Dhruv Kapoor.
As Lakmē Fashion Week's March 2025 edition approaches, three emerging designers are set to take centre stage under the NIF Global Presents GenNext program. For the 39th edition, the season’s visionary talents include Abhishek Shinde (Abhichiq), Yash Patil (That Antiquepiece) and Somya Lochan (Quarter).
Ahead of their runway debut, The Style List caught up with the trio to discuss their collections and their take on fleeting versus timeless fashion trends. Here’s what they had to say!
Abhishek Shinde
Abhishek Shinde’s label, Abhichiq, is a conscious homegrown brand that is contemporary, ethical, inclusive, and mindful. Speaking about his upcoming showcase, Shinde shares his thoughts.
What can we expect at the show?
Expect effortless style with relaxed silhouettes and versatile layering. The collection is going to be a riot of colours, intricate- prints, and laid-back style – a perfect blend of craftsmanship, slow fashion, and relaxed sophistication, all with a touch of adventure.
Share a glimpse into the collection.
Titled CIAO, the collection draws inspiration from Sicily’s rustic charm and Mediterranean appeal. It is a celebration of artisanal craftsmanship and the joy of dressing up. You can expect to find handwoven textiles, intricate hand-block prints, hand-embroidered fruit and floral motifs, bold carnival stripes, and retro tailoring with playful details. CIAO reimagines classic menswear into a timeless, artisanal wardrobe designed with an adventurous edge.
What is the future of fashion in India according to you?
The industry is shifting towards a more mindful approach, where people are investing in timeless pieces that can be styled in multiple ways rather than for single occasions. A well-crafted, stand-alone piece holds more value than an over-styled ensemble. Fashion is becoming more versatile and fluid—a change worth embracing.
A trend you love and one you wish would disappear?
Colour blocking is an exciting trend – it is exciting to explore the endless ways colours can be
combined and worn. However, the concept of seasonal colour cycles is something I would like to discard. Colours don’t need labels, they just belong. There is no need to confine them to seasonal drops. Fashion should feel effortless and not tied to a calendar.
Soumya Loachan
Soumya Lochan’s label, Quarter, is a Delhi-based studio built on the philosophy that fashion is made up of four key elements: artisan, design, fabric, and the wearer. The brand seeks to unite these aspects while offering a fresh perspective on textiles. Known for its innovative approach, Quarter develops its own fabrics using a combination of logic, technique, storytelling, and science. As she prepares for her runway debut, Lochan shares insights into her collection.
What can we expect at the show?
At the show, expect a whirlwind of emotions. Everything is handcrafted but with a fresh twist on the concept of handmade. There’s an element of exaggeration and a provocative edge designed to spark thought. And for the first time, there will also be womenswear showcased.
Share a glimpse into the collection.
The crafts featured in this collection include Himroo from Aurangabad and Banarasi silks. The pieces are designed to be functional, allowing the wearer to break them down and rearrange them as they wish. As part of our commitment to preserving craftsmanship, we aim to commercially revive at least one traditional loom with every collection, and we're proud to have achieved that goal.
What is the future of fashion in India according to you?
The future of fashion in India will focus on four key elements: Personal Style, where consumers will embrace individuality, moving away from mass trends and opting for fashion that reflects their unique identities. Second, is ownership, with a focus on sustainability, there will be a shift towards investing in durable, high-quality pieces, along with a rise in upcycling and customization. Cultural Expression, fashion will increasingly celebrate India’s rich cultural diversity, with designers and consumers using clothing to showcase heritage, values, and personal stories. And finally, circularity & regeneration – a greater emphasis will be placed on circular fashion, where garments are reused, recycled, and regenerated, reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices in the industry.
A trend you love and one you wish would disappear?
As a slow fashion and textile practitioner, trends have never felt personal or meaningful to me.
Yash Patil
Yash Patil, creative director of That Antiquepiece, is a NIFT graduate with expertise in knitwear. His designs blur the line between art and fashion, drawing inspiration from history and architecture. His signature aesthetic focuses on vintage silhouettes, particularly from the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Ahead of his runway showcase, Patil offers a glimpse into his collection.
What can we expect at the show?
A mix of modern and classic silhouettes, paired with the brand's DNA, forms the foundation of our collection. Some pieces are derived from our archives, while others are inspired by items collected over the years. We transform these elements into something more time-relevant. Envision ball gowns, opera coats, sarees, jackets, and trousers with experimental silhouettes reinterpreted in a language that distinctly defines our brand.
Share a glimpse into the collection.
Inspired by the photographs developed by the Matzene studio in Shimla, this collection revolves around archival photographs of the Rana royalty of Nepal from the 1870s to the 1950s. With an abundance of resources and inspiration from their European counterparts, their imagination ran wild, thus giving rise to breathtaking fashion and visual imagery in the foothills of the Himalayas.
What is the future of fashion in India according to you?
The future of fashion in India will revolve around embracing individuality, conscious consumption, and mindful purchasing decisions. This shift will encourage brands to innovate in construction, textiles, craft, and technology.
A trend you love and one you wish would disappear?
I'm thoroughly enjoying the thrifting and upcycling trend, as well as investing in vintage pieces. It's fascinating to see people explore various aspects of sustainable fashion. I’d love to see less of fast fashion hauls - a trend I really wish takes a backseat.
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