As World Environment Day approaches, there’s no better time to explore homegrown fashion labels that are making significant strides towards sustainability. These brands are not only committed to reducing their environmental impact but also fostering traditional craftsmanship and supporting local communities. Here are some standout labels that are leading the way in eco-conscious fashion.
Isbandh: Reviving Kashmiri Craftsmanship
Isbandh, a brand born from the rich heritage of Kashmir, has emerged through extensive research and collaboration with local artisans. These artisans, custodians of centuries-old crafts, face challenges such as declining demand and inadequate resources. Isbandh connects them with a modern audience, ensuring their skills are preserved and appreciated.
The brand carefully selects sustainable materials, from natural fibers like Chanderi to responsibly sourced raw materials, striving to minimize its environmental footprint. Founder Mehreen emphasizes that sustainability is a responsibility, integrating it into every aspect of production, from ethically sourced materials to small-batch production.
Paiwand: Transforming Textile Waste into Art
Paiwand is at the forefront of promoting circular production models within the design community. The brand repurposes unwanted textile waste into valuable fabrics for apparel and home furnishings, collaborating with design houses and artisans to employ techniques like handloom weaving, embroidery, and patchwork.
Led by Ashita Singhal, a weaver, designer, and social entrepreneur, Paiwand challenges conventional norms in textile design. Ashita’s work emphasizes the importance of craftsmanship and sustainability, making a significant impact on the fashion industry.
Three: Sustainable Luxury for the Whole Family
Three offers a collection of clothing made from sustainable fabrics that blend luxury with everyday life. The brand, founded by Pallavi Dhyani, caters to women, men, and children, emphasizing style, comfort, and sustainability. Each garment reflects a commitment to a sustainable future, combining innovative cuts with timeless elegance.
Pallavi’s passion for creativity and self-expression is evident in Three’s contemporary designs, which balance modern style with environmental consciousness. The brand’s collections are a testament to the dynamic nature of fashion, celebrating sophistication and sustainability.
Graine: Contemporary Craftsmanship
GRAINE, founded by sisters Mannat Sethi and Harshna Kandhari, honors traditional techniques while contemporizing them for modern silhouettes. The brand is known for its signature craftsmanship, such as chikankari and badla work, and its innovative use of repurposed materials like rubber tires.
The sisters’ philosophy emphasizes the conscious selection of raw materials and the elevation of traditional craftsmanship. By repurposing discarded tyre tubes and collaborating with artisans in Lucknow, GRAINE brings new life to ancient techniques, creating unique and sustainable fashion pieces.
SWGT: Artistic Expression and Zero Waste
SWGT, led by designer Shweta Gupta, merges Indian craft traditions with contemporary design. The brand’s philosophy is rooted in the balance between creativity and environmental responsibility. SWGT operates on a zero-waste ethos, utilizing leftover materials for intricate crafts like crochet.
The garments created by SWGT epitomize meticulous craftsmanship and innovation, poised to become cherished heirlooms. The brand empowers artisans across Central India, ensuring that each piece carries a rich cultural heritage. Their designs reflect a modern take on nomadic expressions, inspired by the textures of the Himalayas.
Corpora Studio: Affordable, Accessible, and Sustainable Fashion
Corpora Studio, based in New Delhi and led by designer Aanchal Arora, aims to make designer clothes more affordable and accessible while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability. The brand focuses on creating long-lasting garments that reduce the cost per wear.
By meticulously planning and cutting patterns from high-quality raw materials, Corpora minimizes waste and adheres to ethical production processes. Aanchal believes that sustainable fashion is not only about the environment but also about creating timeless, durable garments.
This World Environment Day, celebrate the remarkable initiatives of these homegrown fashion labels. By supporting brands like Isbandh, Paiwand, Three, Graine, SWGT, and Corpora Studio, you contribute to a more sustainable future while embracing the rich tapestry of traditional craftsmanship. These labels exemplify how fashion can be both stylish and responsible, paving the way for a greener, more conscious industry.
