Unisex Clothing and the New Fashion Identity in India

This article delves into the growing popularity of unisex fashion in India, its cultural relevance, and its role in shaping the future of style. As India embraces inclusivity, gender-neutral clothing is redefining fashion by challenging traditional norms and fostering a more diverse sartorial landscape.

The Emergence of Unisex Fashion in India

Gender-neutral clothing, designed to be worn by anyone regardless of gender, is gaining traction in India. With a rich tradition of versatile garments like kurtas, dhotis, and sherwanis, India is well-positioned to lead in this space. Industry insights suggest the global gender-neutral fashion market could reach USD 209.73 billion by 2031, with India’s vibrant textile sector and shifting consumer preferences driving growth.

Younger generations, especially Gen Z and Millennials, are fueling this trend, with many prioritizing self-expression over rigid gender norms. A recent survey indicated that over 40% of Gen Z consumers identify with gender fluidity, and more than half prefer shopping without gender-specific labels. Indian brands like HUEMN, NorBlack NorWhite, and The Pot Plant are at the forefront, offering collections that merge bold designs, inclusive silhouettes, and eco-conscious materials.

Why Unisex Fashion is Gaining Ground in India

1. A Legacy of Gender-Fluid Attire

India’s fashion history is steeped in androgynous clothing. Garments like the kurta and dhoti have long been worn across genders, styled to suit personal tastes. Designers like Resham Karmchandani of The Pot Plant note that Indian clothing often transcends gender, providing a natural foundation for the modern unisex movement.

2. Challenging Gender Norms

The rise of gender-neutral fashion aligns with growing awareness of inclusivity and LGBTQ+ rights. Designers such as Aneeth Arora (Pero) and Suket Dhir create minimalist, genderless pieces with relaxed fits and neutral tones, appealing to diverse audiences. Oversized shirts, co-ord sets, and loose trousers are becoming wardrobe essentials across urban and rural India.

3. Sustainability at the Core

Many unisex brands, including Netein and Sepia Stories, emphasize sustainable practices, using organic fabrics and eco-friendly dyes. This appeals to conscious consumers who value ethical fashion. 

Celebrities like Ranveer Singh, known for bold androgynous looks, and global stars like Harry Styles are normalizing gender-fluid fashion. Singh’s choices, like wearing skirts or statement accessories, inspire young Indians to experiment. Social media platforms amplify these trends, with influencers showcasing gender-neutral designs from brands like Bobo Calcutta and Almost Gods.

Leading Indian Brands in Unisex Fashion

Several Indian labels are reshaping the fashion landscape with gender-neutral collections:

Nor Black Nor White: Mriga Kapadiya and Amrit Kumar fuse Indian textiles with streetwear aesthetics, crafting vibrant, genderless pieces.

The Pot Plant: This Delhi-based brand uses sustainable fabrics like cotton and bandhani for versatile, gender-neutral clothing.

Bobo Calcutta: Known for playful prints, this label promotes self-expression through androgynous designs.

Sepia Stories: A pioneer in sustainable unisex fashion, it offers organic cotton pieces like trousers and dupattas that defy gender norms.

The Future of Gender-Neutral Fashion in India

Unisex clothing is more than a passing trend—it’s a movement toward inclusivity, creativity, and sustainability. As global retailers like ASOS and Indian brands like NoName expand their gender-neutral lines, the market is poised for growth, supported by e-commerce and flexible production models like NoName’s Flexi MOQ.

Challenges persist, including limited accessibility in smaller cities and the need for designs that accommodate diverse body types. Yet, platforms like Lakme Fashion Week’s #GenderBender showcase, featuring labels like Anaam and Chola the Label, signal a bright future.

How to Adopt Unisex Fashion

Play with Silhouettes: Choose oversized shirts, co-ords, or relaxed pants for versatility.

Blend Tradition and Modernity: Pair a kurta with sneakers or a dhoti with a jacket for a gender-fluid look.

Support Ethical Brands: Shop from sustainable labels like  Sepia Stories.

Express Your Identity: Use fashion to reflect your unique style, free from societal expectations.

Conclusion

Unisex clothing is transforming India’s fashion identity, merging cultural heritage with modern inclusivity. Brands like HUEMN, NorBlack NorWhite, and The Pot Plant are leading this shift, empowering individuals to embrace authentic self-expression. With sustainability and evolving consumer values at its core, gender-neutral fashion is not just a trend but a defining force in India’s style evolution. Discover these innovative brands and join the movement for fashion without boundaries.