Menswear Takes Over
The Lakmē Fashion Week X FDCI, which commenced on March 19, 2026, at the Jio World Convention Centre, unequivocally declared a new dawn for menswear. This
year's event saw a remarkable shift, with designers dedicating prime time to showcasing distinct menswear collections. The opening day was a testament to this evolution, featuring impressive presentations from a curated selection of designers and collectives, including The Boy’s Club, CHOLA, L’Atelier 1664 x Abraham & Thakore, Kartik Research, and AK|OK Anamika Khanna. These showcases collectively celebrated the modern Indian male, moving beyond traditional roles and establishing menswear as a significant force in the fashion landscape. The emphasis was on innovative design, superior craftsmanship, and a bold aesthetic that resonated with contemporary tastes.
Designers' Vision Unveiled
The runway was awash with a compelling array of styles that redefined masculine fashion for 2026. Designers explored fluid silhouettes that offered ease and movement, juxtaposed with impeccably sharp tailoring that exuded sophistication. Layered styling added depth and visual interest, while captivating color palettes injected vibrancy and personality into the ensembles. Each collection was a narrative of the designer's unique vision. Kartik Research, for instance, delved into the rich heritage of Indian embroidery, reimagining traditional motifs with a contemporary edge. Similarly, Anamika Khanna transformed the runway into a canvas, painting a vivid story with her innovative designs. These statement pieces were not just garments but expressions of artistry, setting a definitive tone for the season and showcasing the growing prominence of menswear.
The Boy's Club Spotlight
A significant highlight of the day was the showcase by The Boy’s Club, an FDCI initiative that brought together some of the most promising menswear designers. This curated platform featured collections from Countrymade, Dhruv Vaish, Sahil Aneja, and Vivek Karunakaran, offering a diverse yet cohesive vision for men's fashion. Actor Siddharth graced the runway as the showstopper for Chennai-based designer Vivek Karunakaran, whose collection, 'Thangam,' presented a novel interpretation of traditional textiles. Karunakaran creatively re-envisioned Kanjeevaram, a fabric traditionally associated with sarees, into striking ceremonial pieces that commanded attention. The Boy's Club collection strongly conveyed an understanding of what men desire in their attire, with many pieces proving versatile enough to be embraced by women as well, underscoring a growing trend towards gender-fluid fashion.
Kartik Research & Anamika Khanna
Emerging talent Kartik Kumra, the visionary behind Kartik Research, captivated the audience with a collection deeply rooted in Indian culture, craftsmanship, and contemporary styling. His runway presentation was a narrative woven with intricate embroidery, lending an undeniable edge to modern menswear. The designs demonstrated a profound respect for heritage while embracing current fashion sensibilities, making them highly relevant for today's discerning man. Alongside this, established designers Anamika Khanna, David Abraham, and Rakesh Thakore offered their unique perspectives on menswear. Their collaboration with L’Atelier resulted in a display of statement ensembles, featuring relaxed, fluid silhouettes for men that exuded understated elegance. Anamika Khanna’s AK|OK label also expanded its narrative to include a compelling menswear range, perfectly complementing the modern man's evolving wardrobe with pieces that are both fashionable and functional.
