Vegan, ethical and festive, occasion wear gets a sustainable touch this season

The appeal lies not only in aesthetics but in the story these pieces carry like the rare crafts, kindness, and culture woven together. Designer Anita Dongre, who is popular for her craft-conscious work and is founder of the label The House of Anita Dongre, mentions, “For me, every season is about celebrating and conserving our crafts. A classic handloom sari or a comfortable hand-embroidered kaftan would be my picks for the festivities. Opt for hand-painted vegan bags that are cruelty-free and plastic-free, as these are the right statement to make for the purpose-driven modern Indian woman.”

(Image: The House Of Anita Dongre)

Instead of 10 heavy, seldom-worn outfits, brides are curating leaner trousseaus filled with versatile saris, detachable dupattas, and handcrafted accessories that work across occasions. Think a handloom sari for a puja, a lightweight zardozi lehenga for the pheras, and a vegan clutch for the cocktail night for an intentional fashion statement. The festive market is also responding with capsule collections that merge sustainability with style. From artisanal ateliers to ethical festive wear, cruelty-free occasion wear is being re-imagined as aspirational, not alternative.

Shop with purpose

This year, Indian couture is headed towards occasion wear that feels lighter, purposeful, and versatile. Brides-to-be are increasingly choosing pieces they can re-wear, repurpose, or even pass on, rather than one-time showstoppers. The new-age lehenga, for example, is designed with movement and ease in mind. As Anita points out, “We’re seeing a beautiful mix of age-old techniques like pichwai, gota patti, and zardozi with modern cuts and lighter construction. Keeping functionality always in hand with design is always a good idea, go for pieces tailored for ease and movement with thoughtful details like pockets in lehengas.”

Also read: Festive Fashion 2025: How to style mirror work for a timeless, elegant wardrobe

It’s a shift that mirrors the rise of “quiet luxury” across global fashion. Just as minimalism and slow living dominate international runways, Indian festive fashion is taking a step back from excess to embrace timelessness. Vegan leather juttis with intricate embroidery, cruelty-free silk alternatives, and statement jewellery made from recycled metals are no longer niche but they’re rapidly entering the mainstream. For many young consumers, making an ethical statement is as much about personal values as it is about fashion cred, which is forcing designers to take the green route.