THIRDRAFT

Why blow cash on overpriced labels when the city’s real style hotspots are tucked away in indie studios, thrift nooks, and sneaker dens? No pushy salespeople, no inflated price tags, just raw talent, unbeatable finds, and enough character to make designer boutiques look dull.

First stop: Utopian, a pocket sized nail studio in Majnu ka Tilla, run by Lil Max, 27. For three years, he’s been crafting press-on masterpieces that radiate “main character energy.” With prices between ₹1,000 and ₹1,400, his creations range from dainty florals to chaotic graffiti art. “People don’t realize how much nails change the way you carry yourself,” he says. So yeah, your hands deserve better than chipped polish and regret.

A few lanes over, sneakerheads flock to Phantom Sneaker in Majnu ka Tilla, Delhi, where Tespal Tenzin, 23, has mastered the art of high-quality replicas. His budget-friendly grails start at ₹2,000, featuring Nike, Adidas, and New Balance lookalikes so spot on even sneaker purists do a double take. Want Yeezys without auctioning a kidney? This is the plug. 

For those chasing runway worthy looks without financial ruin, Ebay finds in Hauz Khas, owned by Towarhring Lukhu, 21, is a goldmine. Stocked with Zara inspired pieces, denim staples, and trend driven dresses priced between ₹500 and ₹4,000, this place turns “just browsing” into a full blown shopping spree. “Fast fashion is pricey, but looking good shouldn’t be,” she says. And honestly, we agree no one should have to pick between rent and a killer fit.

Last up: Shop with Love in Hauz Khas Market, Vishal’s streetwear sanctuary, where oversized hoodies, unisex fits, and effortlessly cool silhouettes redefine casual dressing. “Streetwear isn’t about labels, it’s about confidence,” he says. Translation? You don’t need Supreme, you just need to Shop with Love. 

Delhi’s underground fashion scene isn’t about hype, it’s about self-expression, reinvention, and breaking the mold. So skip the mainstream stores and find the real tastemakers.ty over quantity. Unlike global retailers that churn out new collections every few weeks, Indian brands focus on timeless craftsmanship and handmade detailing, ensuring that each piece is unique and lasts longer.