Sustainable Fashion in India: Organic Clothing Tends to Eco-Friendly Styles

Unveiling the Power of Sustainable Fashion: Organic Clothing, the Gateway to Eco-Conscious Style. Today’s discerning buyers embrace sustainability in fashion, advocating for eco-friendly materials and production processes that minimize harm to our planet. But amidst the allure, one must ask: ‘Is it a distant dream in a country like India, or the unstoppable trend of the near future?

Yes, it’s true that sustainable fashion comes at a higher cost. It can be a tough choice for everyday shoppers to resist the allure of cheap, fast fashion dominating the media. However, the truth remains: anyone seeking smarter shopping options can access sustainable clothing.

In an exclusive HT Lifestyle interview, Shilpi Gupta, founder of Shilpi Gupta’s Design and Chairperson of IMS DIA Institute, revealed: “The rise of sustainable fashion reflects consumers embracing eco-friendly trends. Organic textiles’ demand and market size are growing. Versatile styling with sustainable choices can lead to financial benefits.

Organic cotton, the star of sustainable fashion in India, reigns supreme. As the leading producer, India accounted for 51% of the world’s organic cotton production in 2022, reaching a remarkable 1.23 million tonnes. In a report titled “Organic Cotton Market, 2021-2028,” Fortuna Business Insights unveiled fascinating insights. 

Firstly, the organic cotton industry is set to skyrocket, projected to reach an astounding market size of USD 6,730.9 million by 2028. With a staggering CAGR of 40.0% during the 2021-2028 period, the growth is undeniable. Organic cotton, cultivated naturally with eco-friendly fertilizers and materials, leaves a smaller environmental footprint compared to synthetic cotton.

On a positive note, the Business Research Company’s latest Global Market Report, 2023, reveals a promising outlook. The global textile market is projected to grow from $573.22 billion in 2022 to $610.91 billion in 2023, boasting a robust 6.6% CAGR.

Buyers’ mindsets have transformed, paving the way for a new era of “value-based eco-friendly shopping.” The surge in organic fashion stems from the contrasting dynamics of the textile industry today.

Shilpi Gupta emphasized, “Elegant stilettos effortlessly elevate both professional and social settings. A stunning purse can effortlessly enhance an outfit’s colors and overall appearance. The sustainable fashion sector is expanding rapidly, driven by raw materials like Cork, Hemp, Organic Cotton, Recycled Cotton, and Linen.

Designer Renesa Rastogi from Label RCKC Aurum brings her expertise to the table, revealing the key trends in sustainable fashion in India:

Natural Fabrics: Embracing organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, and linen, the use of eco-friendly fabrics is on the rise, reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry.

Minimalism Wardrobes: The popularity of minimalist fashion and capsule wardrobes is growing, promoting a sustainable approach through versatile, timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched.

Upcycling and Recycling: Designers creatively repurpose old garments and materials, reducing waste and giving new life to discarded items.

Slow Fashion Movement: Mindful consumption takes center stage as the focus shifts to quality over quantity, encouraging durable and timeless fashion choices.

Local and Artisanal Engagement: Traditional crafts and local artisans gain prominence, reviving traditional techniques and empowering communities.

Sustainable fashion is driving the concept of “ethical fashion” without polarising opinions. It brings refreshing approaches to the lifestyle and fashion industry, challenging old ways of thinking. Mindless shopping is fading as buyers prioritize eco-friendly fabrics and opt for organic clothes over chemical products. This shift reflects a coherent change in the fashion industry. Brands are introducing sustainable fashion lines, and organic fashion brands are experiencing significant growth.