Description
India’s footwear and accessories market is striding confidently into a new era. India is now the world’s second-largest producer and consumer of footwear—a feat made possible by strong domestic demand, a youthful demographic, and expanding urban aspirations. With nearly 95% of production consumed domestically, the country is not just manufacturing at scale—it’s evolving its taste.
The shift is evident: from function to fashion, from basics to brand-led choices. Footwear is no longer just utility—it’s identity. This transformation is being fueled by the rise of a style-savvy, digital-first generation that sees sneakers, sandals, and boots as expressions of personality, ambition, and even sustainability. Accessories like bags and wallets are also following this trajectory—moving beyond practicality to become lifestyle statements.
Government support through ‘Make in India’, IFLDP, The Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) and infrastructure hubs like the Chennai footwear cluster is accelerating this shift. The BIS mandate and innovation in non-leather alternatives ensure global-quality standards while honouring India’s own craftsmanship roots. Brands today must cater to a consumer who wants it all—comfort, design, ethics, and performance. As brands and other homegrown players step up, global attention is also turning toward Indian leather expertise and fashion leadership.
The road ahead? Personalisation, smart tech, and conscious consumption. Footwear that not only performs but resonates—designed for the gym, the street, and the boardroom. India is not just catching up with global fashion—it’s setting the pace.
In a world shifting towards value and values, India’s footwear story is one of resilience, reinvention, and runway-ready ambition. The May edition of the IMAGES Business of Fashion mentions it all. The journey has only just begun.
