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Indian Fashion in the USA: What NRIs Are Wearing in LA vs. NYC 

When it comes to Indian designer fashion in the US, one thing’s for sure: NRIs aren’t blending in, they are standing out. And nowhere is this more obvious than in Los Angeles and New York City. Both cities have strong South Asian communities with equally strong opinions on style. From pre-wedding parties to festival looks, NRIs in the US are showing up in standout fits, each with a vibe that matches their surroundings. 

In LA, the looks are breezy, beachy, and high on comfort. Think lightweight fabrics, pastel tones, and easy silhouettes made for outdoor functions. NYC, on the other hand, leans bold and structured. Velvet, silk, rich embroidery, dramatic jewelry, it’s a little more drama, a little more tradition. Here’s a closer look at how Indian fashion trends in the US plays out on both coasts and what NRIs are actually wearing from brunches to baraats. 

 

West Coast: Laid-Back Luxe in LA 

Los Angeles fashion has always been about effortlessness and that carries over to Indian fashion too. From Beverly Hills rooftops and Malibu beach resorts to chic backyards in Santa Monica and terrace parties in West Hollywood, Indian fashion in LA shows up effortlessly and everywhere!  

NRIs here are choosing outfits that move well, look great in natural light, and work for both intimate get-togethers and rooftop haldi functions. You’ll spot pastel lehengas with mirror work, organza cape sets, designer kurta sets, and kaftans taking center stage. Looking for an Indian clothing store in Downtown LA? You’ll find plenty of boutiques, but Aza Fashions lets you shop designer fits without the traffic, heat, or parking hunt. 

Designers like Arpita Mehta, Papa Don’t Preach by Shubhika, and Nidhika Shekhar are favorites for their bold colors and playful silhouettes. Their pieces combine Indian details with contemporary cuts, which is exactly what LA’s South Asian community wants. Cape sarees, ruffled pre-drapes, mirror embellished jackets, and co-ord sets in fresh colors are the go-to choices for wedding guests and bridesmaids.  

Fusion Indian wear is especially big for NRIs in LA, where many events happen outdoors or in destination-style venues. Designer outfits that are easy to wear, quick to style, and still photogenic are in high demand. You’ll see a lot of ready to wear sarees, embroidered jackets over dhoti pants, and lehenga skirts styled with crop tops or bustiers. 

All Eyes on These Celebration Fits:

 

East Coast: Bold, Structured, Statement in NYC 

Now let’s talk about New York. Here, Indian outfits have a little more edge. NRIs in the city love a bold entrance and often pick classic silhouettes with dramatic updates. Whether it’s a wedding in Brooklyn or a Diwali gala in Midtown, the outfits are sharper, layered, and high on impact. 

If you’re hunting for an Indian clothing store in NYC that keeps up with the city’s high-style energy, skip the local racks and check out the curated edit online at Aza Fashions. Expect velvet sherwanis, georgette lehenga, metallic saree, and deep jewel tones. Check out popular designers like Jayanti Reddy, Amit Aggarwal, Tarun Tahiliani, and Pankaj & Nidhi. Brides and guests alike are choosing traditional textiles like Banarasi, brocade, and chanderi, but styled in unexpected ways. Think sculpted blouses, asymmetrical drapes, and blazers over sarees. 

New Yorkers are also more likely to experiment with gender-fluid fashion and Indo-western looks. Long bandhgalas worn with trousers, embellished jackets paired with sneakers, or designer suits with embroidery for cocktail nights, it’s all part of the scene. There's also a strong focus on accessorizing, whether that means heirloom-style jewelry or modern accents that add personality. 

And let’s not forget the seasonality! New Yorkers know how to dress smartly for the weather. In fall and winter, you’ll see layering done right with velvet shawls, embroidered coats, and full sleeve lehenga styled with boots or stockings. Its function meets fashion, with every look built to impress and brave the chill. 

All Eyes on These Celebration Fits:

 

Where NRIs Are Shopping Designer Indian Wear in the US 

Whether you’re more West Coast minimal or East Coast bold, you don’t have to fly to India to get your hands on designer Indian outfits. Online platforms like Aza Fashions USA offer a curated mix of the top Indian designers with delivery across the US. From easy festive picks to full-blown bridalwear, everything is just a click away with COD options, fast delivery, and easy returns. 

 

The best part? You can shop for your vibe without hopping from store to store. If you’re heading to a sundowner in Malibu, there are organza sets and sequin kaftans waiting for you. Planning a Central Park wedding? You’ll find silk lehengas and hand-embroidered sarees that fit right in. Wherever you are, and whatever coast you claim, the NRI wardrobe in the US is having a major moment. And it’s only getting better!  

Find your fit among the best of Indian fashion - delivered to your doorstep in the US. Shop curated designer looks for every occasion at Aza Fashions. 

 

Author

  • Ishika Sen crafts compelling fashion content with a sharp eye for style, couture, and whatever’s worth a second look. A travel enthusiast at heart, she's always chasing new trends and destinations. Outside of work, you’ll likely find her at the gym or unwinding with a good movie.

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