Anita Dongre: The Queen of Sustainable Elegance in Indian Fashion

When you think of Indian fashion that gracefully blends heritage with modernity, one name inevitably stands out, Anita Dongre. From humble beginnings in a small room in Mumbai to ruling the ramps of international fashion weeks and dressing global icons like Kate Middleton and Hillary Clinton, Anita Dongre’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

The Roots of a Fashion Dream

Born and raised in Mumbai, Anita Dongre grew up in a traditional Sindhi household. Her love for fashion sparked early, inspired by the rich Indian textiles and craft traditions. After graduating from SNDT Women’s University with a degree in fashion design, she was determined to bring the beauty of Indian artisanship into mainstream fashion.

Starting with just two sewing machines in her bedroom and working with her sister and brother, Anita founded House of Anita Dongre in 1995, an umbrella that would eventually shelter some of the most iconic fashion labels in the country.

Building a Fashion Empire

The House of Anita Dongre grew to encompass four major brands:

• AND – Contemporary western wear for the modern Indian woman.
  
  

• Global Desi – A vibrant fusion of boho-chic styles rooted in Indian prints and silhouettes.
  
  

• Anita Dongre – The luxury label known for bridal couture, sustainable craftsmanship, and timeless elegance.
  
  

• Grassroot – A conscious luxury label that empowers rural artisans and promotes sustainable fashion.
  
  

Each label reflects a different facet of Indian womanhood, from the professional go-getter to the bohemian traveler and the elegant bride.

A Voice for Sustainability

Anita Dongre is not just a designer; she’s a changemaker. With Grassroot, she has revolutionized sustainable fashion by working directly with rural artisans, reviving dying crafts, and ensuring fair wages and dignified working conditions. Her designs are more than beautiful garments, they’re woven stories of empowerment, culture, and responsibility.

She has also been a vocal advocate for cruelty-free fashion, being one of the first Indian designers to reject leather in her collections. Her flagship store in Mumbai is a testament to her eco-conscious philosophy, built using sustainable materials and practices.

Dressing Icons and Making Headlines

From Bollywood celebrities like Kareena Kapoor and Alia Bhatt to international figures like the Duchess of Cambridge, Anita Dongre’s designs have been flaunted on some of the world’s most influential women. Her bridal wear has become a dream choice for countless brides who seek tradition with a modern soul.

The Woman Behind the Brand

Despite her massive success, Anita Dongre remains grounded. Known for her calm demeanor and business acumen, she leads her brand with empathy, vision, and an unwavering commitment to ethical fashion. Her story is an inspiration for aspiring designers, women entrepreneurs, and anyone who dares to dream big.

In an industry often driven by trends, Anita Dongre stands for timeless style and conscious living. Her journey from a young girl with a dream to a fashion icon changing the landscape of Indian couture is a celebration of passion, perseverance, and purpose.