India continues to reinforce its position as a leader in sustainable fashion innovation, with the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge (CDC) driving a transformative approach rooted in circularity, responsibility, and forward-looking design. Initiated in India in collaboration with the United Nations in India and Lakmé Fashion Week, the platform has grown into a globally recognised initiative that supports emerging designers redefining the industry through material innovation, design intervention, and systemic change.
This season, CRCLE emerged as the winner of the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge, earning a prestigious showcase at Lakmé Fashion Week x FDCI 2026. This milestone underscores the brand’s dedication to building sustainable systems through mindful craftsmanship and contemporary storytelling. The recognition propels CRCLE from concept to global visibility, aligning with the platform’s mission to empower designers who translate circular principles into scalable, future-ready practices.
Based in Chennai, CRCLE is a menswear label committed to reimagining modern wardrobes through circular design. Its approach integrates traditional craftsmanship with contemporary silhouettes, focusing on material integrity, texture, and functionality. The brand’s philosophy extends beyond garment lifecycles, emphasizing long-term sustainability and responsible production.
CRCLE has built a robust circular ecosystem, collaborating with over 100 artisans and more than 50 craft communities and material innovators across India. Its material portfolio includes naturally dyed Weganool from Auroville, handwoven Korai grass from Pattamadai, cotton from Chennimalai, and deadstock cotton sourced from Tirupur. The brand also incorporates leather offcuts from Chennai, handcrafted metal buttons from Kutch, and repurposed stainless steel elements. Within just 18 months of its launch, CRCLE has recycled over 400 kilograms of textile waste and contributed to generating 5,800 litres of Aarka—a by-product that enhances soil health and supports agricultural productivity in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
For its showcase, CRCLE presented ‘DIALOGUE,’ a collection that explores the connection between materials, makers, and wearers. Grounded in circular design principles and enriched by handcrafted techniques, the collection emphasizes tactile surfaces, thoughtful construction, and timeless adaptability, reinforcing the idea of fashion that extends beyond seasonal relevance.
Speaking about the collection, Varshne, founder of CRCLE, said that ‘DIALOGUE’ aims to restore the connection between materials, artisans, consumers, and the environment. She highlighted a shift away from fast-paced automation toward a more intentional design process that embraces imperfections and textures as integral elements of each piece.
Hemant D. Sharma, President – Polyester at Reliance Industries Limited, congratulated Varshne and emphasized the importance of empowering emerging designers to integrate sustainability and circularity into their creative processes. He noted that the R|Elan™ CDC fosters innovation, mentorship, and global exposure, enabling young entrepreneurs to develop impactful and scalable solutions for the fashion industry.
Stefan Priesner, United Nations Resident Coordinator in India, also praised the initiative, stating that the collaboration between UN India, R|Elan, and Lakmé Fashion Week exemplifies how partnerships can accelerate the transition toward a circular and climate-resilient economy. He highlighted its role in reducing waste, protecting the environment, and generating green livelihoods in alignment with India’s climate goals.
Over time, the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge has evolved beyond a competition into a comprehensive ecosystem that provides mentorship, strategic support, and international exposure. By connecting designers with industry leaders and cross-sector collaborators, it enables sustainable growth while advancing the global dialogue on circular fashion.
In 2026, the initiative expands its global reach with a special Indo-French edition in partnership with the Embassy of France in India and the French Institute in India, alongside Reliance Industries Limited and the United Nations in India. This collaboration strengthens cross-cultural exchange in sustainable fashion and sets the stage for CRCLE’s continued journey on the global platform.