Rajshree Upadhyaya | Jaipur | Business Remedies | April 12,2025 | In the heart of Mumbai, where stories of hustle echo through every street, two brothers, Raghvendra and Amar Pawar, were unknowingly laying the foundation for a brand that would soon redefine men’s fashion in India. Back in 2008, as college students, they often found themselves frustrated by the lack of affordable yet stylish clothing. Finding a t-shirt under Rs. 300 that didn’t compromise on trend or quality felt like a task. Instead of settling, they saw potential in that gap. what started as a personal challenge quietly turned into a business idea that would later take shape as Powerlook.
In March 2010, the brothers opened a small store in Borivali West, selling wholesale t-shirts that combined style with affordability. The store quickly caught the attention of young shoppers who, like them, were looking for something fashionable without spending a fortune. But with growing popularity came challenges. Relying on wholesalers meant they had little control over inventory and quality. They realized that to build something lasting, they needed to own the process. By 2013, they transitioned into contract manufacturing, and that’s when Powerlook was born, not just a clothing line, but a vision to bring high-street fashion with Western flair to Indian wardrobes.
From oversized tees to printed shirts and carpenter pants, Powerlook became a reflection of international trends adapted for Indian consumers. What set them apart was not just the design, but the strategy behind it. They eliminated middlemen, sourced fabrics directly from mills, and collaborated with local job workers across Mumbai, Delhi, and Ludhiana. This lean model allowed them to offer stylish apparel at prices between Rs. 400 and Rs. 1,600, making fashion both accessible and aspirational for young Indian men.
As the brand grew locally, the brothers realized the importance of a digital presence. By 2017, Powerlook launched its own e-commerce platform, stepping into the direct-to-consumer space just in time to navigate the challenges brought on by the pandemic. With physical stores shut, the brand thrived online, driven by Instagram campaigns, influencer collaborations, and loyal digital followers. Their Instagram page, now with over 288,000 followers, became a powerful platform for product launches and trendsetting content, helping them build a strong online community.
Powerlook also aligned itself with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, choosing to manufacture domestically. This not only supported the local economy but also allowed them to avoid international duties and stay agile with new collections. By 2019, the brand had established five stores across Mumbai and in 2024, it announced a bold Rs. 50 crore investment plan to open 50 more outlets across Tier I, II, and III cities by 2027. That year alone saw the launch of five new stores in cities like Vadodara, Surat, and Bengaluru, bringing their total to 13.
Each store opening contributed to a significant boost in sales, with local revenue increasing by nearly 30%. Powerlook reported a GMV of Rs.130 crore in FY 2023-24 and now aims to double that to Rs. 300 crore in the coming year. Their portfolio has grown to over 700 SKUs, with plans to add shoes, accessories, and new denim styles, further expanding their hold in the menswear space.
What makes Powerlook’s story remarkable is not just the numbers, but the spirit behind it. Raghvendra and Amar, without formal fashion training, built their brand on intuition, market understanding, and relentless effort. Their journey from a small retail shop to a nationally recognised name is a powerful reminder that vision, grit, and the willingness to adapt can turn everyday frustration into an inspiring success story.
Written & Edited By:
Rajshree Upadhyaya
