April 2026 | D2C Fashion & Startup Funding News – Delhi-based direct-to-consumer (D2C) ethnic wear brand House of Chikankari has raised ₹25 crore (approximately $2.64 million) in a Series A funding round, led by Cap Alpha Ventures.
The fresh capital will be used to expand product offerings, strengthen omnichannel presence, and accelerate international growth, as the brand looks to scale its footprint in the global ethnic fashion market.
Growth Strategy: Product Expansion & Global Reach
With this funding, House of Chikankari plans to:
- Broaden its product portfolio
- Expand across online and offline retail channels
- Increase penetration in international markets
The brand is positioning itself at the intersection of traditional craftsmanship and modern fashion, catering to evolving consumer preferences.
Reviving Craftsmanship with Modern Design
Founded in 2020 by Aakriti Rawal and Poonam Rawal, the company focuses on reimagining traditional chikankari embroidery for contemporary audiences.
“This fundraise marks an important step in our journey of building a brand that brings Indian craftsmanship to a wider audience while remaining relevant to today’s consumer,” said Aakriti Rawal, founder of House of Chikankari.
The brand blends heritage techniques with modern silhouettes, making ethnic wear suitable for everyday use and global consumers.
Artisan Network & Product Portfolio
House of Chikankari works with over 10,000 artisans, helping preserve India’s hand-embroidery traditions.
Product Range Includes:
- Kurtas
- Sarees
- Kaftans
- Tops and shirts
- Bottom wear
This approach not only supports artisans but also ensures authentic craftsmanship at scale.
Strong Growth & Market Traction
The company has demonstrated strong business momentum:
- Over 50% growth in FY26
- Annual revenue run rate of ₹50 crore
- Customer base of 2 lakh+ users
- Monthly traffic of 9 lakh+ visitors across platforms
Its direct-to-consumer model has enabled it to build a loyal and engaged community.
International Expansion Gains Momentum
House of Chikankari has already established a global presence, delivering products to 20+ countries, including:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Australia
The new funding is expected to accelerate its international expansion strategy, tapping into rising demand for Indian ethnic wear globally.
Market Outlook: Rise of D2C Ethnic Fashion Brands
The Indian D2C fashion space is witnessing strong growth, driven by:
- Increasing demand for authentic, handcrafted products
- Growth of online-first brands
- Rising global interest in Indian textiles and designs
Brands like House of Chikankari are leveraging this trend to build scalable, culturally rooted fashion businesses.
Editor’s Take
This funding reflects a broader shift in consumer behavior:
👉 People are not just buying fashion—they’re buying stories, craftsmanship, and authenticity
With a strong artisan network and digital-first strategy, House of Chikankari is well-positioned to become a global ambassador of Indian heritage fashion.
Ruchi Kumar is the associate editor at Entrepreneur News Network and TVW News India, where she leads editorial strategy, brand storytelling, and startup ecosystem coverage. With a strong focus on innovation, business, and marketing insights, he curates impactful narratives that spotlight India’s evolving entrepreneurial landscape. She has written extensively on fintech, AI and emerging startups.