All Eyes on Couture: What to Expect at FDCI Hyundai India Couture Week 2025

Each year, there’s one week when New Delhi feels like the fashion capital of the world. The lights get brighter, the runways get glossier, and couture takes over every conversation. India Couture Week 2025, presented by the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) in association with Reliance Brands, is back with its 18th edition, and this time, it feels more meaningful than ever.

Being held from July 23 to 30 at the Taj Palace, New Delhi, The FDCI India Couture Week promises drama, detail, and a whole lot of wow. From decoding trends for brides and grooms, to appreciating indian artisans and their craftsmanship, it’s where bridal dreams meet high fashion, and where some of the biggest designers show us what weddings and celebrations will look like in the coming year. From heartfelt tributes to grand finales and fresh, young voices, here's everything to look out for at FDCI India Couture Week 2025.

The Designers To Watch

This year's lineup includes Rohit Bal, JJ Valaya, Manish Malhotra, Ritu Kumar, Tarun Tahiliani, Amit Aggarwal, Falguni Shane Peacock, Rahul Mishra, Shantnu & Nikhil, Suneet Verma, Rimzim Dadu, Jayanti Reddy, Rose Room by Isha Jajodia, and Aisha Rao.

Rahul Mishra Will Opens the Week

After his couture showcase in Paris, Mishra will land in the capital. Known globally as a flagbearer of Indian couture, Rahul Mishra will kick off the week, setting the tone for what lies ahead. Expect intricate embroidery, soft storytelling, and a collection that probably touches your heart before it even touches the floor. His showcase is set to be a masterclass in slow fashion and detailed artistry.

JJ Valaya’s Grand Finale Marks 33 Years in Fashion

JJ Valaya knows how to end Couture Week in style. This year, he’s celebrating 33 years in the fashion world, and you can expect nothing short of royalty on the runway. His show will be a mix of old-world charm, Indian royalty, and signature Valaya opulence — a visual treat, as always.

The Return of Rohit Bal’s Legacy

This will be one of the most emotionally charged moments of the week. Rohit Bal, who passed away shortly after his showcase last year, will be honoured through a tribute show. Expect an unforgettable display of his most iconic designs, florals, whites, and his signature grandeur that redefined Indian couture for decades. A designer who made fashion feel poetic, this tribute promises to be deeply nostalgic.

The Return of Icons: Manish Malhotra & Ritu Kumar

Manish Malhotra is back after lighting up the Ambani wedding and every celeb red carpet lately. Yes, you’ll see glam, sparkle, and famous faces, but look closer and you’ll also spot old-school charm blended with modern silhouettes. That’s his secret sauce.

Ritu Kumar, the queen of Indian textiles, is bringing her magic again with Threads of Time: Reimagined. Her showcase honours five decades of her brand and promises a journey through craft and time, where old techniques meet new imagination.

Tarun Tahiliani’s Salon-Style Showcase

If grandeur feels overwhelming, Tarun Tahiliani offers a more personal, artful touch with a salon-style showcase this year. Known for his draped silhouettes, ornate threadwork, and focus on comfort-meets-elegance, this will be one for the connoisseurs.

Shantnu & Nikhil Celebrate 25 Years

With structured designs and a deep dive into India's regal past, Shantnu & Nikhil’s Fall/Winter 2025 collection is a powerful celebration of their 25-year journey. Expect dramatic shapes, military influences, and sharp tailoring wrapped in emotion.

New Voices, Strong Stories: Isha Jajodia, Aisha, and Rimzim Dadu

What’s fashion without fresh perspectives? Roseroom by Isha Jajodia, Aisha, and Rimzim Dadu are adding that essential contemporary twist to the couture conversation. From metallic textiles to bridal rebellion, this younger generation of designers brings in innovation while still respecting Indian roots.

10 years of the Hyundai CRETA

While fashion will rule the ramp, auto enthusiasts have something to watch out for too. The event will also mark the 10th anniversary of the Hyundai CRETA with a special unveiling of the Hyundai CRETA Electric, a nod to futuristic luxury and sustainable innovation.

A Trend Map for the 2025 Wedding Season

If you're getting married next year or attending a big Indian wedding, this is the week you want to watch. India Couture Week is the fashion calendar’s answer to a wedding moodboard. From opulent lehengas and reimagined sherwanis to modern sari drapes and cocktail-ready gowns, the runway will reflect everything that’s about to be “in”. There’s also a fresh wave of softer, gender-fluid fashion coming in, so expect to see grooms in pastels and brides in off-beat silhouettes.

The 2025 Bride and Groom

The 2025 Indian bride is experimental, not afraid of shorter blouses, dramatic veils, or embroidered gloves. The groom is moving away from cookie-cutter kurtas and leaning into stylised layering, jewel tones, and bolder accessories. India Couture Week 2025 is the place where these identities take shape.