11 South Asian Designers To Shop in The UAE
From elaborate hand-sewn beadwork to perfectly tailored pieces, these labels from the subcontinent let their work speak for themselves
Whether it’s intricate lace sewn onto a delicate pastel-hued chiffon dupatta for a casual daytime look or a brightly colored Banarasi silk saree with elaborate zardozi work for dinner, South Asian wear captures a spectrum of styles that not only reflects the region’s diversity but also exemplifies the craftsmanship and versatility embedded in the fabric of Pakistani and Indian fashion.
From the regal charm of lehengas (skirt) or the grace of a shalwar-kameez (traditional set of top and trousers), Harper’s Bazaar Arabia brings you an immersive exploration of the talent that continues to shape the dynamic landscapes of desi haute couture.
11 South Asian Designers To Shop in The UAE
Bazaar Arabia‘s Top 5 Pakistani Fashion Designers
Hussain Rehar
Celebrated for his avant-garde and innovative approach to design, with exceptional attention to detail, Hussain Rehar is one of the country’s newer designers having started his namesake label in 2017. He is known for his bold use of colours, intricate beadwork, and a penchant for pushing the boundaries of conventional fashion.
The brand’s website, hussainrehar.com, ships to the UAE.
Muse Luxe
Started in Paris, this Pakistani luxury womenswear label is known for its beautiful, timeless pieces. They incorporate the finest of fabrics, hand-picked from the oldest mills in Italy and France, which are then used to create pieces combining modern designing with a touch of tradition that goes back centuries.
The brand’s website, museluxe.com, ships to the UAE.
Shehla Chatoor
Renowned for her bridal and luxury couture, Shehla Chatoor’s designs are characterised by their intricate detailing. Her collections often showcase a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. Pieces from the brand have been seen on numerous celebrities, such as Bollywood star Aditi Rao Hydari.
Clients in the UAE can exclusively contact the label on their WhatsApp at +971503633814
Faraz Manan
From designing for top Bollywood stars like Kareena Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Deepika Padukone, to keeping his followers on Instagram (he boasts over a million) updated on his newest creations Faraz Manan is undoubtedly one of the most prominent Pakistani designers in the world.
Specialising in both bridal couture and ready-to-wear collections, is known for his pieces with intricate embellishments and elaborate detailing that blend traditional and contemporary elements. Looking for a cropped jacket with a wrap skirt, but with a South Asian twist? You need to check out his work.
Log on to farazmanan.com or visit their store in Dubai’s Jumeirah 3.
Ali Xeeshan
Ali Xeeshan’s love for grandeur and playfulness are reflected in his eccentric pieces. Known for pushing creative boundaries, his work often features a mix of traditional and contemporary elements. The label is favourite amongst brides who want to go for elaborate lehengas with bold beadwork, embroidery, and bright colours.
The brand’s website, alixeeshanempire.com, ships to the UAE.
Bazaar Arabia‘s Top 6 Indian Fashion Designers
Sabyasachi
Our list would not be complete without Kolkata-born, world-renowned Indian fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. His creations are characterised by their intricate craftsmanship, vibrant colours, and a strong connection to his heritage. His work spans across various collections, from bridal couture to ready-to-wear, and he is particularly celebrated for his luxurious wedding ensembles, well known for dressing Bollywood brides.
Manish Malhotra
Having a career that began as a costume designer in the Hindi film industry, Manish Malhotra is a highly acclaimed Indian fashion designer praised for his influential contributions to the Bollywood and Indian fashion industry. He is known for having dressed numerous Bollywood celebrities in his signature tissue and chiffon sarees, and his label has become synonymous with high-profile Indian couture.
Manish Malhotra’s clothing can be found in the UAE at his newly opened store in Dubai Mall.
Gaurav Gupta
From Beyoncé and Nicki Minaj to Paris Hilton and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Gaurav Gupta has become the go-to designer for top celebrities around the world. His portfolio includes avant-garde and futuristic designs with innovative silhouettes, sculpturally balanced pieces, and intricate detailing. His work reflects a perfect amalgamation of art and fashion, with a focus on architectural elements and modern aesthetics.
shop.gauravguptastudio.com offers worldwide shipping, including the UAE.
Tarun Tahiliani
Having recently created pieces for the Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant pre-wedding celebrations, Tarun Tahiliani is a distinguished Indian fashion designer renowned for his contributions to bridal couture and luxury fashion.
shop.taruntahiliani.com offers worldwide shipping, including the UAE.
Anita Dongre
Anita Dongre’s creations often feature intricate Rajasthani handwork, sustainable fabrics, and vibrant prints, highlighting her commitment to traditional craftsmanship and ethical fashion practices. Her label spans various lines, including “AND” and “Global Desi,” showcasing her versatility in design. A trailblazer in promoting Indian textiles, she has successfully merged heritage with contemporary style.
Anita Dongre pieces can be purchased on their dedicated UAE website anitadongre.ae
House Of Masaba
House Of Masaba helmed by the talented Indian designer Masaba Gupta, seamlessly blends traditional charm with avant-garde flair. It is renowned for its striking use of colors and patterns, the fashion label is a vibrant kaleidoscope of contemporary design. Masaba’s signature style often marries unconventional prints with modern silhouettes, resulting in a collection that stands out for its bold, confident, and unapologetic aesthetic.
House Of Masaba can be purchased on their website houseofmasaba.com
Lead Image Courtesy of Instagram/@hussainrehar.official