Once dismissed as tacky, kitsch fashion has undergone a glamorous transformation, emerging as one of 2025’s most celebrated styles. From temple bells on sneakers to street typography on saris, Indian designers are redefining maximalism with a blend of boldness and sophistication.
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Juhi Melwani, founder of Doh Tak Keh, describes kitsch as “the loud cousin at the party—bold, chaotic, and fun.” Her brand draws inspiration from everyday Indian visuals like rickshaw decals and vintage Bollywood posters, turning them into bold prints and upcycled textiles.
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Shubhika Sharma of Papa Don’t Preach takes kitsch to new heights with structured silhouettes, metallic embellishments, and 3D threadwork. Her designs, inspired by fantasy and rebellion, balance over-the-top aesthetics with meticulous craftsmanship.
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Ishita Verma of Capisvirleo adds a global twist, incorporating Victorian art and Mona Lisa-inspired palettes into her collections. Her approach ensures that even the wildest prints maintain a cohesive and wearable appeal.
This evolution of kitsch reflects a shift from mindless mix-and-match to intentional storytelling, where every element contributes to a unified vision. As Sharma puts it, “Kitsch is no longer about clashing colors; it’s about calculated chaos that speaks to the past while stepping boldly into the future.”
Sources: Hindustan Times, MSN India, Vogue Singapore, Yellowbrick Blog