The past few months have witnessed media, fraternity and buyers supporting local crafts, weavers and artisans by wearing what is Made in India. Despite the options available for handcrafted apparels and accessories, how many of you could resist from buying when mega e-commerce destinations offered Independence Day sale?
Well, only a handful!
Going Indian does not mean throwing away your favourite denims, dresses and haute couture gowns and shifting to the benevolent sarees. It means embracing our country’s rich heritage of textiles, crafts and embroideries in forms that sync with our aesthetics.
Keeping that mind, it should not hurt to explore contemporary Indian fashion brands that are not only unconventional but have revived some of India’s lost textiles and crafts in the progress to achieve unconventional.
For the August Edit, we have handpicked these 10 Homegrown Indian fashion brands that will impress you with their eccentric cuts and silhouettes with a touch of Indian aesthetics.
Green and Mustard Yellow Dual Draped Wrap Dress by Jodi
Tailored to sartorial perfection from Tussar silk, this dual toned wrap dress from Jodi is an apt pick for festivities due to its cheerful combination of regal shades. JODI is an Indian based label co-founded by former stylists Gauri Verma and Karuna Laungani. The brand is majorly known for its ensembles that are handcrafted with natural Indian textiles combined with the artisanal process of hand-block printing.
WKINO Hand-painted Indigo Jacket by 11.11
The hand spun and hand painted Indigo denim jacket by 11.11 is a classic piece to add to one’s wardrobe. Be it styling with a denim shorts and sneakers or teaming it up with a saree, this jacket is a conversation starter with its design being hand painted by a kalamkari artisan based in Andhra Pradesh. Owned by entrepreneurs Mia Morikawa and Shani Himanshu, 11.11 is a signifier for synchronicity with an emphasis on creating links between farmers, weavers, vegetable dyeing and block printing traditions.
Silk Hand done Bandhani Rust Blazer Set by The Pot Plant
This blazer set by The Pot Plant is handcrafted in silk and accented with very fine bandhani in tiger stripes pattern. Sassy in its appearance when paired with a high – neck black t-shirt, this blazer set is sure to give your mundane blazers and suits a break. Celebrated as an eco-friendly and androgynous label, The Pot Plant offers easy separates, handcrafted bandhani silk sarees, contemporary tops, dainty dresses, and unisex shirts, jackets, and pants, all pieces that transcend places, seasons, and wardrobes.
Iris Saree by Thevasa
Handcrafted with Kota silk and detailed with the block printing technique, this tri-coloured saree with modern stripes is ideal for the one having a minimalist wardrobe and an eye for the dainty pastels. Thevasa showcases the beauty of Indian art-forms from all over the country for the new Indian; one who exudes confidence in self and India.
Constellation Bundi Set by Country Made
An exclusive from Country Made’s SS’20 Runway Collection ‘Beyond The Clouds’ showcased at the India Fashion Week, the constellation bundi set is handcrafted in handloom cotton silk fabric. Be it for festivities or for an evening party, the bundi set is utilitarian and eclectic at the same time. Countrymade is a luxury ready – to wear brand conceptualised by Sushant Abrol that derives inspirations from compelling stories through a rigorous design process that carves out poetic and thought provoking renditions.
Starlight Shirt by Bloni
Handwoven in Chanderi, this tie-dye shirt by Bloni with a regular shirt collar, fagoted seams and pattern mimicking the thunder lightning, is perfect for someone who prefers wardrobe essentials that bring together the ancient indigenous hand craft with contemporary cuts. Launched by Akshat Bansal, Bloni is a modern ethical luxury brand that transcends clothing beyond creativity and imbibes it with a purpose that is unique with each piece meticulously handcrafted using traditional techniques practiced via sustainable processes.
Shibori Silk Kurta by Urvashi Kaur
Asymmetrical in its silhouette and cut, this silk kurta from Urvashi Kaur’s Men’s collection is detailed with the shibori technique. Comfortable in its appearance, it can be paired rightly with chinos and denims alike. Urvashi Kaur is a known name in the fashion fraternity for her contemporary women’s wear. Having forayed into Menswear, she sticks to her modern design sensibilities involving crafts and textiles of India.
Fern Striped Co-ord by Three
Handcrafted in cotton, this Fern striped co-ord set by Three is quirky, functional, timeless, minimal and perfect for a work day or weekend. Three specialises in designing keepsakes for women and men that are meant to last seasons, outlast trends, and complement one’s personality without overpowering the individuality. Inspired by the geometry, the label plays with comfortable fabrics, fit and form with a play of stripes, angular architectural cuts, cut-out backs, and neutral tones.
Bulbul Tulip Mul Cotton Dress by Good Earth
This double-layered gathered dress by Good Earth is handcrafted in mul fabric with intricately hand-embroidered florals and delicate lace and puff sleeves. Known for an ethos that encapsulates natural story telling while being sensitive to the planet and supporting the craft communities, Good Earth has always striked a cord with décor enthusiasts and fashionistas. Their kidswear collection in organic cotton is something every parent should check out. Get your little one playing out in the sun in this beautiful day dress.
Reversible Jacket by Love the World Today
Be it to brace for cool winter evenings or to have something breathable for bright summer days, this reversible jacket by Love the World Today is handwoven in cotton and is detailed with natural coconut shell button. At Love the World Today, the kids wear is made with natural fibres, organic fabrics and natural dyes. Make your child’s playtime unhindered with this edgy and trendy jacket.
Fashion and craft have sustained over wars, political unrest, natural disasters and epidemics and fashion has always creatively carved its way out. Now is the time to make mindful choices more than ever!
Shop your favourites from Ciceroni’s August recommendations!
