Rinesh Dalal, Director JD Institute of Fashion Technology discusses key fashion trends for 2026, from vibrant colours and sustainable materials to AI-led efficiency
Could you briefly take us through your journey and how you came to lead JD Institute of Fashion Technology?
I joined the business in 2021 and represent the third generation of my family at JD Institute, which was founded by my grandfather and later led by my father. Carrying forward a legacy is often perceived as easy, but it comes with its own pressures and responsibilities.
Academically, I hold both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in filmmaking, as I initially aspired to be a filmmaker. That creative grounding has significantly shaped my entrepreneurial mindset. In 2022, I formally took over as Director and also launched JD Online to expand access to quality design education, especially in regions where physical infrastructure is limited. Since then, it has been a period of transformation — modernising systems, encouraging proactive learning and aligning with the New Education Policy’s emphasis on liberal education.
From your perspective, what will be the most defining fashion trends in 2026, particularly in consumer behaviour, syllabus and design sensibilities?
Indian consumers, especially the youth, are extremely dynamic. Trends change almost every month, which makes the market challenging but exciting. For 2026, I strongly believe we will see a return of vibrant colours. Over the past few years, neutral palettes like black, white and beige have dominated. Colour, going forward, will reflect optimism and positivity.
From an academic standpoint, there will be a stronger focus on cultural relevance, playful learning and experimentation. Fashion education must evolve in sync with how consumers think and behave.
Sustainability and circular fashion dominated conversations in 2025. How do you see them evolving in 2026?
Sustainability now needs to go hand in hand with innovation. We have been discussing similar sustainability narratives for the last five to six years. The next phase must focus on creating something genuinely new.
At JD, we encourage students to think beyond materials and look at sustaining design relevance itself. A design should remain meaningful even ten years from now. While materials like cotton, silk, linen and emerging options such as cactus leather will continue to grow, innovation will ultimately decide which practices become industry benchmarks.
Technology-led fashion is gaining momentum. How will AI, smart textiles and digital fashion shape retail strategies by 2026?
Technology is a powerful enabler, but it cannot replace craftsmanship or the human touch. AI and digital tools significantly improve efficiency and scale. For instance, with the right technology, production can increase threefold, which directly benefits retail and wholesale operations.
That said, technology requires capital investment, so how brands allocate resources will determine adoption levels. Overall, technology will enhance productivity and economic efficiency, while creativity will always remain human-led.
How do you expect Indian design sensibilities to influence global fashion trends in 2026?
India’s cultural richness has always been its biggest strength. The future lies in combining heritage with innovation. Global recognition of Indian craftsmanship — such as luxury brands acknowledging the origins of Kolhapuri chappals — validates India’s influence.
Simplicity, sustainability and innovation rooted in tradition will define how India shapes global fashion going forward.
What are your key priorities for JD Institute over the next five years?
Over the next three years, our focus is on implementing true liberal education. Fashion students should also learn entrepreneurship, sports and life skills because holistic development matters.
We want deeper industry integration through masterclasses, panel discussions and interactions with design leaders. While our placement rate stands at 99.67%, we also want students to be more curious, engaged and less dependent on AI shortcuts. Campus life must offer experiences that encourage participation and growth beyond academics.
How do institutes like JD shape India’s retail fashion ecosystem in 2026?
My vision is for every student to think like an entrepreneur and eventually build their own brand. Retail fashion may be facing cyclical economic challenges, but innovation will drive recovery.
At JD, we teach students the importance of observation — understanding people, streets, markets and behaviour. Retail education, business acumen and design thinking must go hand in hand, and that remains our core philosophy.
