Indian ethnic wear has always been a timeless treasure, but in todayâs fashion landscape, Gen Z is redefining the rules of style. This generation is experimental, bold, and deeply connected to both tradition and modern aesthetics. From sarees styled with sneakers to pastel lehengas paired with jackets, Gen Z fashion trends in ethnic wear are breaking boundaries while celebrating heritage.
At The Weavers Shop by Raavi, we witness this transformation daily how young shoppers are choosing handloom sarees, trendy co-ord sets, pastel suits, and statement dupattas to make a mark in their everyday lives. This blog explores the Top 10 Ethnic Wear Trends Gen Z loves right now, giving you insights into whatâs making waves in weddings, festivals, and even casual wardrobes.
1. Sarees with Modern Blouses â Tradition Meets Bold Styling
The saree is the soul of Indian ethnic wear, but Gen Z doesnât wear it the traditional way. Todayâs youth are pairing handloom sarees, chiffon sarees, and silk sarees with corset blouses, crop tops, and off-shoulder styles.
This styling creates a fusion ethnic look that is bold yet rooted. For festive occasions, pastel silk sarees with corset blouses are in demand, while for college fests, youngsters love cotton sarees paired with sneakers and crop tops.
2. Co-ord Ethnic Sets â Fuss-Free Fashion
Ethnic co-ords are the answer to Gen Zâs need for effortless dressing. These matching kurta and pant sets are elegant yet casual, perfect for work, college, or social events. Pastel chikankari co-ords, printed cotton sets, and embroidered silk co-ords are especially popular.
They can be styled with silver jewellery, juttis, or dupattas, making them versatile for both day and night wear.
3. Fusion Lehengas â Light, Stylish, and Chic
The lehenga is no longer just bridal wear. Gen Z prefers lightweight lehengas with crop tops, jackets, or shirts. This trend blends traditional embroidery with modern silhouettes, making it ideal for festive dinners, destination weddings, and even sangeet parties.
Instead of heavy zari, minimal embroidery, pastel colors, and lightweight fabrics are being chosen.
4. Kurtas with Denim â Indo-Western Casuals
Pairing kurtas with denim jeans is one of Gen Zâs favorite ethnic fusion looks. Short kurtas with flared jeans, long embroidered kurtas with ripped denim, or simple cotton kurtas with skinny jeans all are trending.
This style is practical, youthful, and sustainable, as kurtas can be restyled in multiple ways.
5. Statement Dupattas â The Hero of the Outfit
Gen Z believes that one beautiful dupatta can transform any outfit. Banarasi dupattas, Bandhani dupattas, Phulkari dupattas, and organza embroidered dupattas are extremely popular.
They pair them with plain suits, crop tops, or even denim jackets, making the dupatta the center of attention.
6. Pastel Palettes â Minimal Yet Elegant
Bright reds and heavy maroons are making way for pastel colors like mint green, lavender, blush pink, ivory, and powder blue.
These shades are trending because:
⢠Theyâre perfect for daytime weddings
⢠They create an elegant, minimal look
⢠They can be re-worn without looking âtoo heavyâ
Pastel sarees, lehengas, and suits are among the top ethnic wear trends 2025.
7. Silver & Oxidised Jewellery â Bold Accessories
Accessories play a major role in Gen Zâs style. Chunky oxidised chokers, silver jhumkas, and layered necklaces are trending across Instagram reels and college festivals.
They pair beautifully with cotton sarees, kurtas, and co-ord sets, giving even simple outfits a boho chic edge.
8. Sarees with Sneakers â The Comfort Revolution
Gen Z has broken the stereotype that sarees must be worn with heels. Now, sarees with sneakers are a hot trend. Itâs practical, comfortable, and makes the saree youthful.
At The Weavers Shop by Raavi, many customers are styling our handloom mul cotton sarees with sneakers for casual and festive looks.
9. Handloom & Sustainable Fashion â Supporting Artisans
One of the strongest shifts among Gen Z is the preference for sustainable ethnic fashion. They prefer handloom sarees, khadi suits, mul cotton fabrics, and eco-friendly silks.
This reflects their values of supporting artisans and promoting ethical fashion. The Weavers Shop by Raavi celebrates this by offering authentic, handwoven ethnic wear that resonates with todayâs eco-conscious generation.
10. Gender-Neutral Ethnic Wear â Breaking Boundaries
Fashion has no gender, and Gen Z is embracing it fully. Men in pastel sherwanis, women in bandhgalas, unisex kurta sets all are part of the gender-neutral ethnic fashion wave.
Itâs about freedom, individuality, and inclusivity.
Why Gen Z Ethnic Wear Trends Are Important
⢠They combine tradition with modern comfort
⢠They promote sustainability and handloom
⢠They are Instagram-worthy for social media
⢠They allow self-expression and inclusivity
FAQs on Ethnic Wear Trends Gen Z Loves
Q: Which ethnic outfit is most popular among Gen Z?
A: Sarees with modern blouses and ethnic co-ord sets are leading trends.
Q: What makes Gen Z saree styling unique?
A: They pair sarees with sneakers, crop tops, corsets, and T-shirts.
Q: Are handloom sarees popular among youth?
A: Yes! Handloom sarees and sustainable fabrics are highly preferred.
Q: What colors are trending for ethnic wear?
A: Pastels like blush pink, mint green, lavender, and ivory.
Q: How does Gen Z accessorize ethnic wear?
A: With oxidised silver jewellery, boho pieces, and chunky chokers.
Q: Are lehengas still popular with Gen Z?
A: Yes, but they prefer lightweight, fusion lehengas with crop tops and jackets.
Q: Can kurtas be worn casually?
A: Absolutely kurtas with denim is a classic Gen Z trend.
Q: What footwear does Gen Z prefer with ethnic wear?
A: Sneakers, juttis, and kolhapuris.
Q: Where can I buy trendy ethnic wear?
A: At The Weavers Shop by Raavi, where tradition meets modern trends.
Q: Is gender-neutral ethnic wear trending?
A: Yes, inclusivity in fashion is a major Gen Z statement.
Conclusion
Gen Z is proving that ethnic wear is not outdatedâit is evolving. With pastel sarees, fusion lehengas, bold dupattas, and sustainable fabrics, they are shaping the future of Indian fashion.
At The Weavers Shop by Raavi, we celebrate this new era of fashion with collections that blend heritage craftsmanship with modern trends. Whether itâs a pastel saree, a chikankari co-ord set, or a statement dupatta, youâll find a style that reflects your individuality.
Explore The Weavers Shop by Raavi todayâwhere every thread tells a story of tradition and modernity.