The piqit year-end round-up: Five things we loved in 2024
As we look back on 2024, one thing is clear: niche fashion brands have continued to redefine the rules of style, innovation, and sustainability. From bold designs that captured the zeitgeist to subtle craftsmanship that spoke volumes, this year was a testament to the power of creativity and individuality in fashion.
At piqit, we’ve curated and championed the brands that dared to stand out—those whose stories resonated as deeply as their creations. Join us as we look back on 'piqit’s favourites ' that made 2024 a truly unforgettable year for niche fashion.
1. Niche brand of the year
Boito takes over 2024: Boito became a game-changer in 2024. It was founded by Richa Maheshwari with a vision to preserve the rich textile heritage of Odisha, celebrating its history through contemporary high-fashion garments. Today, Boito is not just a brand but a movement, redefining niche fashion.
piqit recognizes what Boito brings to the niche fashion table by launching a collaborative platform that empowers Odisha’s weaving communities. This initiative creates a pathway to protect and promote these art forms, ensuring their beauty continues to thrive.
2. Collabs
Platform Magazine X Savio Jon x Tenzing Dakpa: A Bold Collaboration
Promised Land - The collaboration between Platform magazine, Savio Jon & Tenzing Dakpa, represents a dynamic convergence of creative storytelling, fashion & photography. As the Fashion Director for this collaboration, Savio brings his visionary style expertise to the forefront. An accomplished photographer, Tenzing captures these concepts through his unique lens, creating this visual narrative for the magazine.
At piqit we see this partnership redefining how fashion and art are presented, potentially featuring high-end fashion editorials, and unique collections, from the designers.
piqit’s take on Ekaya Banaras x 431-88 by Shweta Kapur
This collaboration perfectly blends tradition with modernity. Shweta Kapur transforms the Banarasi saree into urban-friendly designs like pre-draped sarees, co-ords, and blazers. This is seen as a call by piqit for niche brands to innovate; empowering artisans and reimagining tradition for contemporary audiences.
The Maker’s Trail: Tharingini Studio x ICH NEXT
The Maker’s Trail led by Manju Sara Rajan brings Bengaluru’s top design minds under one roof. This year the Maker’s Trail fostered a collaboration between Tharangini Studio & ICH NEXT. The dynamic partnership, led by Padmini Govind of Tharangini Studio—Bengaluru’s oldest textile heritage studio—and Anuradha Chandrashekar of ICH NEXT, explored the fascinating intersection of Gen AI and traditional craft.
3. Celebs spotted in niche brands
Diljit Dosanjh, known for his bold sartorial choices, donned Almost Gods, merging edgy street fashion with statement wear.
Ayushmann Khurana sets the style bar high wearing Shahin Mannan.
Farhan Akhtar embraces understated charm in Khanijo, for the Red Sea Film Festival 2024.
Sonam Kapoor showed how bold is done, when she wore a sleek Bloni fit to the Converse India store launch event in Mumbai.
4. New Product ranges that caught our eye
Jodi Introduces Silk: India-based prêt brand Jodi has launched a new collection of silk, blending its signature vivid prints with the timeless appeal of this rich fabric. Inspired by nature, this range features rich jewel-toned hues and effortless silhouettes. The introduction of silk brings a fresh perspective to Jodi's artisanal luxury, enhancing the brand’s reputation for creating feminine, bold designs.
AMPM goes for leather: Timeless luxury brand - AMPM, introduces a refined range of leather accessories, blending minimalist design with impeccable craftsmanship. piqit loves their structured handbags and versatile belts that embody India's soul, with a contemporary take.
Lovebirds in the hand: Lovebirds expands its design language with a sleek debut into handbags. Minimalist yet bold, the collection reflects the brand’s signature aesthetic: clean lines, thoughtful craftsmanship, and versatile functionality. Perfect for the modern, style-conscious individual who focuses on ethos rather than trends.
5. First-of-its-kind Niche trend report
piqit published a bi-annual one-of-a-kind trend report for 2024, featuring niche Indian brands.
The study observed patterns among Indian niche brands to analyze how these labels interpret and incorporate trends. Unlike larger global brands that often align with international fashion cycles, these niche brands chart unique creative paths, reflecting local cultures, traditions, and individual artistry.
https://piqit.in/blogs/trend-report-niche-indian-brands/
https://piqit.in/blogs/trend-report-for-indian-niche-brand/
