Indian fashion designers are stepping into the beauty market, with prominent names like Manish Malhotra and Sabyasachi Mukherjee seeking to leverage their established luxury fashion reputations. This strategic move aims to capture a share of India’s beauty and personal care market, projected to grow from $16.5 billion in 2023 to $18.4 billion by 2026.

Malhotra’s journey into beauty began in 2018, introducing a line rich in glam with products priced between 800 to 1500 rupees ($9 to $18). His brand has garnered significant backing, securing investment from firms like Warburg Pincus and Prosus Ventures. The successful launch underlines the potential for high-end designers to diversify their offerings beyond fashion.

Sabyasachi Mukherjee’s collaboration with Estée Lauder in 2024 exemplifies the fusion of luxury fashion and beauty. His exclusive lipstick collection, priced at 5,400 rupees ($64), showcases a commitment to timeless elegance, adorned in 24-carat gold-plated packaging. This approach cultivates a consistent brand identity across both fashion and beauty lines.

Designers like Masaba Gupta highlight the importance of cultural relevance and tailored marketing strategies. Gupta’s use of Hinglish in product communication resonates with a broader audience, emphasizing the growing demand for localized beauty solutions in India. By focusing on Indian skin tones and authentic branding, these designers are not just creating products; they are building cultural narratives that resonate deeply with consumers. This local appeal is a crucial factor for success in the competitive beauty market.

As Indian designers navigate this new territory, their foray into beauty showcases not only entrepreneurial spirit but also the potential to redefine luxury in a market eager for innovation and authenticity.