Anita Dongre (née Sawlani; born 3 October 1963) is an Indian fashion designer and entrepreneur, best known as the founder of the House of Anita Dongre, a diversified fashion house encompassing multiple clothing and jewellery brands.
Early life and education
Born in Bandra, West Mumbai, Maharashtra, Dongre grew up in a family where her mother, Pushpa Sawlani, stitched clothes for her five children. She pursued formal training in fashion design at the SNDT Women’s University in Mumbai, completing her degree in 1998.
Career and business ventures
After graduating, Dongre launched her eponymous label, quickly gaining recognition for contemporary designs that blend modern aesthetics with traditional Indian craftsmanship. In 2009 she introduced the brand AND, focusing on western wear, followed by Global Desi, a boho‑chic line inspired by Indian folk culture. The flagship label “ANITA DONGRE” offers couture and ready‑to‑wear collections for women.
Dongre expanded into jewellery with the launch of Anita Dongre Pink City, featuring fine Kundan pieces. In 2015 the company rebranded as House of Anita Dongre, consolidating its brands under a single corporate entity. The group later added the sustainable fashion line Grassroot and continued to grow its retail footprint across India and internationally, operating over 1,000 stores in multiple countries.
In March 2019, the House of Anita Dongre restructured its business by transferring the AND and Global Desi brands to a wholly owned subsidiary, Ochre and Black Private Limited, while retaining ownership of the Anita Dongre and Grassroot labels. Dongre serves as Chief Creative Officer, overseeing design direction across all divisions.
Design philosophy and activism
Dongre is noted for promoting ethical fashion; she adheres to vegan principles and has collaborated with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) to advocate against the use of leather and cashmere in her collections. Her designs often emphasize Indian artisanal techniques, supporting traditional craftsmen.
Awards and recognition
- 2008: GR8 Flo Women Achievers Award for Excellence in Fashion Design.
- 2013: Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) Ladies Organization award for Excellence in Fashion Design.
- 2014: EY Entrepreneur of the Year award.
- 2017: Designer of the Year by Vogue and Yes Bank.
- 2019: Lokmat “Most Stylish” award.
- 2023: Vogue “Forces of Fashion” award.
Personal life
Dongre is married to businessman Pravin Dongre; they have a son, Yash Dongre, who participates in the family business.
Anita Dongre remains an influential figure in Indian fashion, recognized for blending contemporary style with cultural heritage and for her commitment to sustainable and cruelty‑free design practices.