‘Fashion world is booming, and India has a big role to play in it’

The latest trends in the fashion industry are marked by a significant focus on sustainability, innovation and inclusivity. Evolving consumer behaviours and technological advancements are reshaping the industry, demanding shifts in design, production, and marketing strategies, said noted fashion designer and Creative Director of Gargee Designers Ravi Gupta.

In an exclusive interview, he said the fashion world is booming and India has a big role to play in it. In an exclusive interview to Bizz Buzz, he said quoting a report that the Indian fashion market is poised to grow at a CAGR of 11-12 per cent, reaching $115-125 billion by 2025. The rise in consumer awareness of environmental effects supports the need for sustainable fashion. In today's competitive economy, adopting sustainability, innovation and diversity is essential for staying relevant. However, the industry faces challenges, including heightened competition with the entry of both domestic and international players. The expansion of e-commerce and globalisation offers an abundance of options for consumers, he said, pointing out that Gargee Designers flourishes by differentiating itself through innovation, maintaining high-quality standards, and providing an amazing customer experience

How big is the industry and the projects being made for its growth in the near future with the growing demand to appear trendy in all age groups?

We recognise the immense potential and growth within the global apparel market. The industry's revenue, calculated at $1.53 trillion in 2022, reflects a robust and dynamic landscape that presents both opportunities and challenges. With the growing demand for trendy fashion across all age groups, our focus lies not only in meeting current trends but also in anticipating and leading the fashion landscape of tomorrow. As consumers increasingly seek to express their individuality through clothing, there is a rising demand for unique and innovative designs.

As sustainability becomes a driving force in consumer choices, we are actively working on projects that align with eco-friendly and ethical practices. We believe that the future of fashion is not only about being trendy but also about embracing responsible and sustainable approaches. Collaborations with like-minded partners, exploring new technologies, and expanding our reach in emerging markets are integral components of our growth strategy.

By staying agile and adaptive, we aim to capture the evolving market dynamics and capitalise on the increasing demand for trendy and sustainable fashion across all age groups.

How do Gargee Designer's stay up-to-date with the changing fashion trends and consumer preferences? What do you find as the unique changes that are being witnessed to make a statement?

We at Gargee Designers believe that staying in touch with changing fashion trends and consumer preferences is essential to our brand ethos. Our comprehensive fashion approach distinguishes us from other menswear brands, as we offer a wide variety of casual to occasion wear. We seamlessly blend classic elegance with contemporary aesthetics, providing a diverse range of options to meet the needs of our customers, ranging from sophisticated understatement to bold modernity. The emphasis on customisation and bespoke orders gives us a unique advantage. This personalised approach enables our clients to customise garments to reflect their unique style and preferences. Our commitment to inclusivity and personalisation is the distinguishing feature that sets us apart in the menswear industry. We make a statement in the fashion industry by adopting this tailored and customer-centric approach, creating a unique and memorable brand experience.

What challenges does the menswear industry face, and how does the brand navigate them?

One significant challenge we have seen in the menswear industry is the prevalence of supply chain bottlenecks. These bottlenecks manifest as material shortages, staffing challenges, logistical delays, and the ongoing energy crisis. To address these challenges, we strive to establish resilient and diversified supply chains. By identifying alternative sources for materials and fostering strong relationships with reliable suppliers, we aim to mitigate the impact of shortages and logistical delays. Additionally, we prioritise workforce management and ensure that our team is well-supported and motivated, even in the face of staffing shortages.

Further, at Gargee Designers, we recognise the environmental concerns associated with the menswear industry. While local communities may benefit from employment opportunities, we are mindful of the potential health risks due to exposure to harsh chemicals, improper safety measures, and poor environmental practices. To address this, we prioritise sustainable and eco-friendly practices throughout our production processes. We are committed to implementing ethical manufacturing standards, reducing our carbon footprint, and fostering a safe and healthy working environment for our employees and the communities we operate in.

How do you envision the future of menswear fashion, both in design and business aspects to be more specific?

Looking ahead, we see Gargee Designers as a major player not only in India but also in the global fashion setting. We want to grow our brand internationally while also solidifying our domestic position as a go-to destination for versatile and sophisticated menswear. The vision is to create a lasting impact by offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity, bringing together a diverse community that values timeless elegance. In terms of design, we anticipate a continued emphasis on innovation and inclusivity while adapting to changing tastes and preferences. From a business perspective, we aim to embrace technology for enhanced customer experiences, streamline operations, and foster sustainability in our practices. We aim to shape the future of menswear by creating a brand that resonates globally by offering a unique and impactful fusion of tradition and modern fashion.

How does Gargee Designer incorporate sustainability into its business practices?

We actively incorporate sustainability into our practices, aiming to make a positive impact on the environment and the industry as a whole. One of our innovative approaches is the repurposing of surplus materials. Rather than letting excess materials go to waste, we creatively utilise them to craft eco-friendly products. This not only minimizes waste but also transforms surplus into something meaningful and sustainable. By embracing circularity in our production processes, we strive to create a closed-loop system that reduces environmental impact.

Our sustainability initiatives at Gargee Designers go beyond being a mere checklist; they serve as a model for the industry. Ethical manufacturing practices are a cornerstone of our commitment to sustainability. We ensure fair labour conditions for our workforce, prioritising their well-being and fair wages. By maintaining ethical standards, we contribute to a positive social impact and work towards reducing emissions associated with unethical manufacturing practices. Sustainability is woven into the fabric of Gargee Designers, influencing every decision we make. We see it not only as a responsibility but as an opportunity to lead by example and pave the way for a more environmentally conscious and ethical fashion industry.

Does the brand utilise any exclusive retail partnerships or collaborations to enhance its presence in specific markets?

By the end of 2024, we are gearing up for a collaboration with the esteemed multi-designer store, Aza Fashion. This strategic partnership is a crucial step towards solidifying our foothold in metropolitan cities like Hyderabad and Mumbai. Our vision extends beyond mere retail expansion as we are dedicated to reaching a broader audience and showcasing our distinctive menswear collections to a discerning clientele. The collaboration with Aza Fashion aligns seamlessly with our commitment to offering high-quality fashion to individuals in these key fashion hubs. This partnership not only enhances our brand visibility but also allows us to connect with a diverse customer base.

Looking ahead, we are focused on the continuous evolution and diversification of our product lines. We understand the importance of staying at the forefront of the dynamic fashion landscape, and our journey involves strategic growth to ensure that Gargee Designers remains a prominent player in the ever-evolving world of fashion. We are excited about the opportunities this collaboration brings and the chance to make a lasting impact on the fashion scene in these vibrant cities.

How have you embraced e-commerce, and what role does technology play in the brand's online retail experience?

Our embrace of e-commerce is integral to our commitment to providing a seamless and accessible shopping experience for our customers. Technology plays a central role in shaping our online retail experience, contributing to various aspects that enhance convenience, engagement, and overall satisfaction. Firstly, our website serves as a digital storefront where customers can explore our latest collections, view product details, and make purchases from the comfort of their homes. The website is designed with a user-friendly interface, ensuring easy navigation and a visually appealing layout that reflects the essence of the Gargee Designers brand.

Technology also plays a significant role in personalisation. We leverage data analytics and customer insights to tailor the online shopping experience. This includes personalized recommendations based on past purchases, browsing history, and customer preferences. By understanding our customers better through technology, we aim to provide them with a curated and relevant selection of products. Additionally, our online platform integrates features such as virtual try-on tools or augmented reality experiences, allowing customers to virtually visualise how a particular piece will look on them. This enhances the online shopping experience, mitigating concerns about fit and style and boosting customer confidence in their purchase decisions.

Are there any insights gained from customer behaviour analysis that have influenced business strategies?

Customer behaviour analysis has emerged as a cornerstone in shaping the business strategies of Gargee Designers. The meticulous examination of customer interactions, purchase patterns, and feedback has yielded invaluable insights. By discerning customer preferences in terms of designs, colours, and styles, we can tailor our collections to align closely with their expectations, ensuring a more successful and resonant product lineup. The impact of customer behaviour analysis extends to our marketing efforts, where personalized campaigns are crafted based on data regarding customer preferences, purchase history, and engagement levels. This targeted approach not only boosts the effectiveness of our marketing initiatives but also nurtures a stronger connection with our diverse customer base.

Lastly, the insights gained from customer behaviour analysis play a crucial role in refining our customer service processes. By anticipating and addressing common issues, concerns, or queries, we can proactively enhance the customer service experience, demonstrating our commitment to responsiveness and satisfaction.