When one thinks of handloom, however, the first and sometimes the only thing that comes to mind is saris. However, there’s more to the art than just the six yards. Handloom — the traditional art of weaving or creating textiles by hand using natural fibres and dyes — is a reflection of the rich cultural heritage and diversity of India. Handloom creations not only showcase the skills and creativity of indigenous artisans, it champions sustainability. These durable, eco-friendly products use less energy than machine-made products.
While handloom saris have a timeless appeal, today’s slow-fashion sensibility and the creativity of contemporary designers has given the traditional craft a modern appeal. Hand made textiles are now fashioned into an array of things from fashion and accessories to home decor and much more.
On the occasion of National Handloom Day, My Kolkata takes you window shopping for handloom products from homegrown brands.
Check out the recommendations…
Women’s fashion
When you live in a country where hot, humid months rule the calendar, handloom cotton is an ideal fashion choice.
Besides being comfortable, these are easy to maintain and light-weight, making them perfect for on-the-go work days, vacations and more. The natural fibres are skin happy and with innovation in design, the choices are limitless.
From dresses and kaftans to jumpsuits, blazers, skirts, co-ords and a whole lot more — these eco-friendly, ethical picks will give you great OOTD options while supporting the livelihoods of artisans who have dedicated their lives to keep this craft alive.
Brand recommendations: Maati, Okhai, Earthwear, The Indian Ethnic Co, Fab India, The Handloom Project
Price: Rs 1,500 onwards
Men’s fashion
Handloom in menswear isn’t just limited to ethnic wear such as kurtas and dhotis. This Swadeshi technique is spinning out contemporary wear such as shirts, trousers, and jackets.
It offers a variety of options for casual and festive wear and you can choose from a wide range of fabrics such as khadi, cotton, linen, silk, khadi, etc. And it is needless to remind that these garments are light and breathable.
Brand recommendations: Fab India, Abhishek Dutta, Harago, Thonje
Price: Rs 800 onwards
All about bags
Bags are the perfect accessory to complement your fit of the day and these bags made with handwoven textiles from natural fibres can be your companion to college, office, or even a shopping run. The most commonly available handloom bags are made of jute and cotton. From a grocery run with your trendy basket-like jute tote, to bold print and subtle pastel handbags that can be great picks for work and travel — these fit in anywhere. Even festive OOTDs can be spruced up with a glam silk potli or an ikkat clutch.
Brand recommendations: Patola by Navdip Tundiya, Pataaka Studio, iTokri
Price: Rs 1,200 onwards
Jewellery and trinkets
Earrings, neckpieces, rings, bangles — opting for pieces that have a connection to handloom can give you pretty picks that are easy on the pocket and good for the environment. Often these little pieces are made from scraps left behind after the weaving process or the tailoring process, making the best of essentially something that might otherwise be waste.
These accessories come in vibrant colours and quirky designs, and thanks to small business owners, these lightweight and handmade jewelleries are available easily and at affordable prices!
Plus, if you are someone with a metal allergy, go ahead and embrace these fashionable, fabric jewellery!
Brand recommendations: The Bling Booth, Aara
Price: Rs 100 - 500
Home decor
Upscale your living space with the finest fabrics weaved with finesse. Handloom fabrics lend themselves remarkably well to a range of home decor picks, from bed linen, cushions, curtains, to mats, carpets and other soft furnishings.
The rich textures, vibrant colours, and intricate patterns of handloom fabrics instantly elevate the ambiance of a room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Moreover, choosing handloom not only supports local artisans and weavers but also promotes sustainable and ethical practices. So, by adorning your home with handloom soft furnishings, you not only adorn it with exquisite beauty but also contribute to the preservation of traditional crafts and the well-being of artisans, while making your home a planet-friendly space.
Brand recommendations: Vekuvolu Dozo, Tohfa, Dhaaga Weaves
Price: Rs 500 onwards
