Kartik Kumra: Elevating South Asian Fashion on the Global Stage

South Asian designer Kartik Kumra is making waves in the fashion industry, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of his region on the global stage. His label, Kartik Research, has made its mark at Paris Fashion Week, debuting a patchwork-style collaboration with the iconic Baracuta brand and now presenting its Spring/Summer 2025 collection, which celebrates the diverse everyday wardrobes of South Asians.

Empowering South Asian Talent and Creativity

Pioneering Representation on the Menswear Calendar

As the first Indian brand to grace the menswear calendar, Kartik Kumra is not just making a fashion statement, but a cultural one. His work serves as a platform for South Asian talent, giving them a voice and a space to shine. While his previous collections have often celebrated the bold and beautiful aspects of Indian culture, his latest offering takes a different approach, delving into the everyday lives of the region's inhabitants.

Blending Tradition and Modernity

Kumra's SS25 collection is a true reflection of South Asia's diverse way of life, blending casual sportswear with elevated tailoring and cultural signatures. The designer draws inspiration from the commutes of religious pilgrimages, where people are seen wearing a mix of practical and formal attire, adorned with garlands and wooden bead accents.

Upholding Indian Textiles and Craftsmanship

Kartik Research is known for its unwavering commitment to Indian textiles and craftsmanship. The brand works closely with local artisans to produce exclusive fabrics by hand, showcasing the rich heritage and expertise of the region. The SS25 collection, despite taking months to create, is presented in a concise 24-look lineup, each piece meticulously detailed and crafted.

Celebrating Cultural Traditions

The collection features a range of garments that pay homage to South Asian cultural traditions. Ornamented blazers are adorned with floral embroidery along the collar and accessorized with mismatched garlands, promoting local customs. Patterned and sequinned workwear jackets build on the brand's strong identity, accompanied by form-fitting trousers and patchwork denim with circular pocket embellishments.

Infusing Versatility and Wearability

Kartik Research's SS25 collection is not just a celebration of South Asian culture, but also a testament to the brand's commitment to versatility and wearability. Detailed graphics are spread across the menswear pieces, featuring leaf-printed shirting, paisley neckties, and frayed outerwear, cementing Kartik Research's position as a label to watch in the global fashion landscape.