Self-Taught Indian Designer Kartik Kumra Goes From College to Paris Fashion Week

Kartik Kumra is only 25 years old, but he is already becoming one of the most talked-about young fashion designers in the world. His journey is special because he never went to fashion school. He learned everything on his own. Today, his clothes are worn by famous celebrities, and his designs are shown on some of the biggest fashion stages, including Paris Fashion Week.

Kumra says that fashion was not his first dream. “My first love was football,” he says with a smile. Even now, football remains close to his heart. But his fashion work has taken him to places he never expected.

Kartik’s clothes are known for being modern but also connected to India’s old crafts. His designs have small, beautiful details that come from traditional Indian techniques. These include chikan work from Lucknow, block printing, and fine wool-silk fabrics. The designs are simple but meaningful. Some people see Indian culture in them, while others simply enjoy the clean look and comfortable fit.

His clothes have become popular worldwide. Big names like rapper Kendrick Lamar and actor Paul Mescal have worn his shirts and jackets on red carpets. This kind of attention has pushed his brand, Kartik Research, to the global stage.

Kartik’s rise in fashion began during the COVID-19 pandemic. He was still in college, staying at home, when he decided to start creating clothes seriously. What began as a small idea in his parents’ home soon grew into something huge.

In the last five years, Kartik Research has expanded faster than many expected. The brand is now sold in 70 stores around the world. Some of these stores include Selfridges in London and 10 Corso Como in Milan—famous places that many designers dream of being part of. His New York store opened five months ago, and a second section will open soon.

Kartik was also included in Time magazine’s “Time 100 Next,” a list that highlights young people who are shaping the future. This is a big moment for any designer, especially one who is only 25.

When talking about his designs, Kartik says he tries to keep everything balanced. He likes adding small but important details to each piece. For example, a black linen shirt may have tiny embroidery in the corner. A jacket may have a print that is almost invisible unless seen closely. This style makes his clothes easy to wear every day, while still giving them a special touch.

Kartik grew up in Delhi. His mother is a career counsellor, and his father is a businessman. They supported him as he explored fashion, even though it was not his first plan. Football was always his passion, but fashion gave him a new path in life.

Today, Kartik Kumra stands as an example for many young people. His story shows that talent can grow anywhere — even in a college room during a pandemic. With hard work, creativity, and a strong connection to his roots, he has taken Indian craftsmanship to the global stage.