Mehuli Goswami Thakur, who has been designing for nearly two decades now, established her boutique Bandhabi at Garfa with a desire to carry forward her painting skill on fabric. Since then, she has been working on her passion project emphasising the use of the organic silk fabric produced from the cocoon to create contemporary, Indowestern and traditional Indian silhouettes beautified with her artwork.
The designer is all set to host her event ‘Silkotsav’ at Golpark’s Cafe Yonder next month to reach out with her work with organic silk more widely. The exhibition will showcase an eclectic and exclusive range of silhouette styles made of silk and tussore. Detailed with an interplay of colours and prints on organic silk and tussore fabric, the two-day exhibition on December 6 and 7 will showcase an elaborate collection of saris, kaftans, skirts, palazzos and various other items. The Telegraph lookbook showcasing what to expect at the exhibition:
The comfy kaftans that made its way to most wardrobes during the pandemic are here to stay and perfect for a comfy occasionwear look, too. This Bishnupuri katan silk kaftan detailed with batik motifs and shaded stripes is made in a body-tapering cut instead of using drawstrings, making it a perfect fit for all body types.
A red-and-ivory sari is a classic combination to have in the wardrobe. Dyed in a dual tone of earthy red and ivory white, the sari is highlighted with a block-printed design. A perfect drape for a complete chunky silver jewellery look.
Made in vibrant shades of blue and yellow, this kachcha-style dhoti skirt is made with resham and cotton thread used in an alternative pattern and block-printed with colour. Apt for an Indo-western style during the winter wedding season, the dhoti is paired with a cotton top.
DESIGNER SPEAK
Mehuli Goswami Thakur
“I have chosen a textile of our state that’s not very widely promoted. My motto is to make this organic silk fabric more widely in use. I have been making trendy Indo-westerns with this fabric that is easily washable at home and sustainable in the sense that it stays forever with home care. The idea behind organising this festival is to raise a voice against the invasion of synthetic material made by combining this organic fabric that is harmful to the skin. All my weavers and artisans will be present at the festival. Through this exhibition, I wish to contribute to the heritage of my country, which is known for producing its own organic fabric. The price of this fabric has also increased post the pandemic. My aim is also to sell the items made from this organic fabric at reasonable prices so that more people can wear it and work with it, too,” said Mehuli Goswami Thakur, owner and designer, Bandhabi.
Picture courtesy: Bandhabi
