The holy month of Ramadan is not just a time for spiritual reflection; it is a build-up to one of the most vibrant celebrations in the calendar: Eid. In the UAE, Eid festivities are synonymous with grandeur, family gatherings, and, of course, impeccable fashion. The region's deep appreciation for intricate artistry makes Eid shopping in UAE a serious affair.
For fashion enthusiasts in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and beyond, the search for the perfect outfit often leads to the rich textures and ornate details of Indian designer brands. Indian couture shares a historical and aesthetic lineage with Arab fashion, prioritizing modesty, embellishment, and luxury. Whether you are attending a grand Iftar, a morning prayer gathering, or an elegant evening soirée, these designers offer the perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
Here is your curated guide to the best Indian designers to elevate your Eid wardrobe this season.
The Icons of Heritage and Craftsmanship
When looking for luxury Indian fashion, some names stand as pillars of the industry. These designers focus heavily on traditional Indian craftsmanship, reviving ancient techniques that resonate deeply with the UAE's appreciation for artisanal heritage.
1. Ritu Kumar: The Matriarch of Indian Fashion
If your Eid style leans towards the timeless and the classical, Ritu Kumar is the definitive choice. Founded in 1969, this iconic fashion house is arguably one of the most respected names in the industry. The brand does not merely create clothes; it preserves history.
Ritu Kumar is celebrated for seamlessly blending traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary sensibilities. For an Eid lunch in Dubai, her ensembles offer a sense of regal sophistication without being overly ostentatious. The brand’s specific focus on reviving dying art forms like zardozi (gold thread embroidery) and hand-block printing—means every piece tells a story.
Why it fits the UAE Eid Vibe:
The rich fabrics and intricate embroideries used by Ritu Kumar drape beautifully, offering a modest yet luxurious silhouette perfect for family gatherings. Wearing a Ritu Kumar piece is a nod to cultural appreciation and sustainable luxury.
2. Rimple and Harpreet Narula: Cinematic Opulence
For those whose Eid plans involve grand evening galas or high-profile gatherings, Rimple and Harpreet Narula offer unmatched grandeur. This Delhi-based duo has gained massive international acclaim for their costume design in Bollywood epics like Padmaavat and the series Heeramandi.
Their aesthetic is a "meeting ground of couture, craft, and heritage." Drawing inspiration from the Mughals, Persian poetry, and ancient forts, their clothes are heavy, regal, and deeply detailed. They employ techniques like marodi, kasab, and gota patti to create garments that look like wearable art.
Why it fits the UAE Eid Vibe:
The UAE loves opulence. A Rimple and Harpreet lehenga or anarkali fits perfectly within the luxurious settings of the Emirates' five-star hotels and ballrooms. If you want to make a statement that screams royalty, this is your go-to brand.
The Masters of Fusion and Color
Eid in the UAE is often a warm affair, and many shoppers look for outfits that balance festive weight with breathable comfort. These designers excel at contemporary ethnic wear, mixing vibrant energy with wearable cuts.
3. Surkh Syahi: A Splash of Vibrancy
Eid is a celebration of joy, and no brand captures that joy quite like Surkh Syahi. Founded by Priyanka Jain, this brand specializes in Indo-Western fusion wear. Jain’s background in the digital printing industry is evident in the brand's DNA, which features high-quality, intricate digital prints.
Surkh Syahi is perfect for women who want to move away from heavy embroideries and embrace color. The brand blends rich Indian cultural heritage with modern aesthetics, resulting in silhouettes that are fun, flowy, and incredibly photogenic.
Why it fits the UAE Eid Vibe:
The vibrant use of colors and lightweight fabrics makes these outfits ideal for daytime events or outdoor gatherings where heavy embellishment might feel uncomfortable in the heat.
4. Shyam Narayan Prasad: Folk Spirit, Modern Soul
Established in 2004, Shyam Narayan Prasad has mastered the art of blending traditional Indian crafts with contemporary silhouettes. His label is a fantastic option for Eid shopping in UAE because it emphasizes comfort without sacrificing elegance.
The brand's unique selling proposition is its "spirit of folk mixed with innovative silhouettes." Prasad draws significant inspiration from the traditional block printing of Rajasthan. You can expect a myriad of bright, vivid colors that stand out in a crowd.
Why it fits the UAE Eid Vibe:
The "easy-to-wear" nature of his designs makes them practical for the busy days of Eid, which often involve hopping between multiple houses for greetings. You look festive but feel comfortable.
5. Gopi Vaid: The Essence of Celebration
Gopi Vaid is a brand that feels inherently festive. Established in 2003 by Gopi Vaid and Arnaz Soonawalla, the label is renowned for its rich jewel tones and intricate hand-embroidery.
Their design philosophy centers on creating clothing that is beautiful, easy to wear, and long-lasting. They are particularly famous for their modern application of traditional artistry, such as hand-block printing and shimmering gota work.
Why it fits the UAE Eid Vibe:
The "jewel tones" (emeralds, rubies, sapphires) prevalent in their collections resonate well with the regional taste for deep, rich colors. Their tunics and sharara sets are versatile enough for both intimate family dinners and larger parties.
The Contemporary Chic
For the modern woman who wants to retain a touch of tradition while embracing global fashion trends, these designers offer sophisticated, architectural, and fusion silhouettes.
6. Ridhi Mehra: Affordable Luxury and Drama
Ridhi Mehra has carved a niche for herself by defining what contemporary ethnic wear looks like for the millennial woman. Her label is driven by the philosophy of creating affordable luxury that is timeless.
Known for clean lines and delicate details, Ridhi Mehra adds a "hint of drama" to her pieces. You will often see Parisian and Grecian influences mixed with traditional Indian embroideries like bugle beads and sequins. She is the queen of the pre-draped saree—a garment that looks complicated but is as easy to put on as a dress.
Why it fits the UAE Eid Vibe:
The pre-draped saree and peplum tops are perfect for the cosmopolitan lifestyle of Dubai. They bridge the gap between a Western evening gown and a traditional Indian saree, making them appropriate for multicultural Eid parties.
7. Seema Thukral: The Art of the Drape
If you appreciate a unique cut, Seema Thukral is the designer to watch. Her eponymous label specializes in glamorous, chic Indo-Western clothing with a signature emphasis on draping.
Thukral combines contemporary fashion with traditional Indian craftsmanship, featuring intricate hand-embroidery alongside mirror work and sequin detailing. Her designs often feature a "sublime allure" created by the fluidity of the fabric and the sophistication of the drapes.
Why it fits the UAE Eid Vibe:
The glamorous aesthetic of Seema Thukral fits right in with the high-fashion standards of the UAE. Her outfits often require minimal jewellery because the cuts and drapes serve as the main accessory.
8. Lashkaraa: Global Essence, Indian Soul
For the global citizen residing in the UAE, Lashkaraa offers a refreshing perspective. Founded in 2014 by Sumeer Kaur in the United States, the brand was built specifically to make high-quality Indian fashion accessible to the diaspora.
Lashkaraa’s design philosophy is "Global in essence and Indian in inspiration." They reinterpret classic silhouettes into avant-garde style statements. The brand offers a massive spectrum of styles, ranging from minimalist floral prints to opulent, heavily embellished outfits.
Why it fits the UAE Eid Vibe:
Lashkaraa understands the needs of the international customer. Their fusion styles are modern and chic, and because they cater to a global audience, their sizing and cuts often translate well for a diverse customer base in the UAE.
Preparing for the Festivities
As Eid approaches, the malls and boutiques of the UAE will fill with shoppers seeking that perfect look. Whether you choose the historical grandeur of Ritu Kumar, the cinematic luxury of Rimple and Harpreet Narula, or the modern fusion of Ridhi Mehra, these Indian designers offer something for every taste.
When selecting your outfit, consider the time of day of your events and your comfort level. Indian designer brands today are more versatile than ever, ensuring you do not have to compromise on comfort to look spectacular. Start your Eid shopping in UAE early to secure these coveted pieces, and prepare to celebrate in style.
