South-Asian New York Fashion Week elevates runway power in New York City; therefore, it turns cultural craft into global influence. Moreover, celebrating elegant South Asian designer couture worldwide, while celebrating traditional and modern South Asian attire with unmistakable color, structure, and artistry. Consequently, SAFW drives fashion forward.
South Asian fashion writes the headline. Therefore, South Asian New York Fashion Week doesn’t wait for permission boldly it claims space, builds momentum, and turns heritage into runway influence. Its inaugural event, in September 2022, SANYFW changed the narrative. It gathered nearly a dozen designers across South Asia; consequently, it delivered representation at real scale.
Meanwhile, that breakout success pushed South Asian style deeper into American wardrobes and fashion conversations; moreover, the movement kept expanding season after season—so visibility turned into velocity, and inspiration turned into lasting impact.
The Impact of South Asian New York Fashion Week
South Asian New York Fashion Week doesn’t simply host a runway—it builds a cultural bridge and expands fashion’s center of gravity. Therefore, founders Shipra and Hayl created the event to spotlight the immersive artistry of South Asia across eight countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Moreover, the platform elevates designers, celebrates heritage craft, and accelerates diaspora visibility—so New York City becomes a meeting point where tradition and modern design move forward together.
Key highlights and developments
The King of Pakistani Luxury Couture: Nomi Ansari
Nomi Ansari headlined SANYFW and commanded the runway with Luxury weddingwear High Fasnion that paired saturated color with meticulous hand embroidery. Consequently, the collection didn’t just photograph beautifully—it demonstrated how South Asian bridal couture sets global standards for drama, detail, and craftsmanship.
Sustainability and heritage: upcycling that protects craft
Designers now treat sustainability as a runway requirement, not a sidebar; therefore, SAFW programs sustainability as a dedicated category alongside streetwear, menswear, traditional, bridal, and Indo-Western looks. Consequently, many creators rework legacy textiles into modern silhouettes, while keeping technique, origin, and meaning visible. Moreover, SAFW’s own selection rubric pushes eco-conscious intent—specifically asking whether a brand operates sustainably and innovates with South Asian fabrics, weaving, and embroidery—so “heritage” becomes future-ready fashion, not museum nostalgia. Meanwhile, NYFW’s broader 2025 calendar also amplified upcycling through new programming, which further signals that circular design has moved from trend to standard.
- Legacy and long-term support: the South Asian Fashion Council
Momentum didn’t fade after the lights went down. Instead, the movement expanded; as a result, leaders launched the South Asian Fashion Council to provide sustained support, resources, and visibility for South Asian designers and creatives. Consequently, the initiative strengthens continuity—so emerging talent gains a clearer pathway from showcase to scale.
Notable South Asian Designers
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Rahemur Rahman Newcomer, with great promise influencing Film and Fashion that combines unique dye, with Bangladeshi Textiles, and British Tailoring.
- Bhutan
- Chandrika Tamang founder of CDK is a clothing brand that encourage women’s empowerment while preserving weaving culture and emphasizing sustainability.
- India
- Ritu Kumar founder of Ritu Kumar Collection.
- Rina Singh and founder of Eka Brand.
- Maldives
- Nepal
- Sanyukta Shrestha claim to fame is luxury eco-friendly sustainable bridal wear
- Mishu Shrestha launched MISHUS promoting sustainable women’s fashion and cashmere gowns.
- Pakistan
- Nomi Ansari owner and designer of Nomi Ansari Fashion.
- Hassan Sheheryar Yasin Owner of the world renowned HSY
- Sri-Lanka
- Saskia Fernando, designer and founder of jewelry line Papillon du The
Global and Celebrity Influence
South Asian style has long been admired by global icons and royalty:
Princess Diana was a first in representing Desi Fashion for Royalty
Known as one of the world’s greatest style icons, she frequently wore South Asian attire. A notable appearance was her May 23, 1997 visit to Cancer patients at the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital Lahore, Pakistan, where she wore a blue floral Salwar Kameez by designer Ritu Kumar.
Oprah Winfrey shared my interest in being fitted for a Saree
Oprah shared her experience being fitted for a Sari, appreciating its beauty and its significance in Indian culture as “5.5 meters of fabric” that can be intricately woven or embroidered.
Iggy Azalea rocked the Desi Fashion in her Bounce Video
She is bold and global in her music. And she elevated the Western representation of Desi fashion in her incredible bindi, bridal head jewelry and vibrant crimson lehenga choli.
How the Celebrity West Is Won Over by South Asian Style?
Contemporary Icons: Modern celebrities like Beyoncé, Gwen Stefani, Kendall Jenner, Naomi Campbell , and Taylor Swift have embraced Desi fashion, from Lehenga Cholis to Bindis, further cementing its place in mainstream Western pop culture.
Why I would gladly trade Westerns Suits for South Asian Style
New York City is the pulse of global innovation, and I am thrilled to see South Asian fashion finally taking center stage. As an American with a deep appreciation for diverse aesthetics, I believe South Asian style isn’t just a trend—it is world fashion.
For years, I’ve integrated traditional Indian jewelry into my daily wardrobe. I choose Jhumka earrings over standard accessories because their vibrant colors and intricate craftsmanship are unmatched. However, my passion goes beyond accessories.
Flattering Fits for Every Body
As a plus-size American woman, I often find Western “plus-style” gowns restrictive or dull. In contrast, the Saree or long cut of a Salwar Kameez offers an elegant grace that adapts to any silhouette. The dramatic colors, creative draping, and flexible fit provide a level of sophistication that American evening wear often lacks. I wear jhumka as everyday jewelry over business “gold or silver” hoops.
Furthermore, for professional settings, I would prefer swaps of a traditional American pantsuit for the Salwar Kameez. Here’s why:
- Innovation: The cuts are modern yet timeless.
- Comfort: They offer a more realistic, flattering fit for curvy figures.
- Versatility: They transition perfectly from business meetings to social events.
Embracing Cultural Fusion
Post-COVID, my favorite clothing has shifted toward high-energy, brightly colored outfits that spark joy. Why settle for ordinary when you can embrace the extraordinary artistry of South Asian design?
~ Dawn C. Simmons
Other South-Asian New York Fashion Week Resources
10 Most Influential Female Fashion Designers of all time | Business with Bangladesh | Executive Women’s Network | Education & Study Abroad | Jobs n Careers |