Just when we thought the first lady of Indian fashion has shown us everything there is in fashion to witness, she slides us right back to the corner of our seats with the launch of Ritu Kumar Home. Displaying a beautiful range varying from block printed tiger and floral motifs on cushions to vintage kansa cutlery, the designer has opened a new window to what fashion could look like outside of our wardrobes.
Over her five-decade long career, Ritu Kumar has managed to revive and reinvent the very roots of Indian embroidery and textiles with her undying passion for the culture of this country. The designer has spent over 45 years of her career studying, researching and experimenting with centuries-old fabrics. Because of their timeless appearance and detailing, her clothes remain trendy even as the years pass. Truthfully, it was only natural for her to transition this deep-rooted knowledge into the world of home decor.
Ritu Kumar Home is an ode to the artisans of ancient India. The collections feature pieces from India that are “the best there is in a particular region, on textile”. For instance, “Jal Mahal” is inspired by the Jal Mahal palace over the Man Sagar lake in Jaipur, Rajasthan. The palace was a frequent picnic spot for the royal family. The drop displays quilts and placemats as well as dinnerware with “Banki” print, adding a touch of grace to the rendition.
Jal Mahal
Ritu Kumar started planning her home collection pretty early in her career, almost 35 years back she says, when the ever-inspired designer realised how kantha prints on her leftover fabric would make for adorable cushion covers.
And the lady delivers, beautifully might we add. Ranging from jamawar and kalamkari prints to intricate zardosi embroidery, her cushion collection is something you do not want to miss out on!
Cushions
One thing that makes us keep coming back, is her attention to detail- the story behind each print and embellishment. She manages to bring royalty to your parties, and now your tables too! Another remarkable blend of the whole modern and refined aesthetic is the “Kansa” collection. It features the most vintage looking dinnerware, casseroles and good old tiered tiffin boxes. The rustic pieces are the perfect contrast to add to her embroidered table linens and prints.
Kansa
The evolution of Ritu Kumar’s label from apparel to home is truly awe-inspiring. Whether one wishes to redo their decor or simply have a piece for their pretty china cabinet, Ritu Kumar Home has the perfect blend of options. She really does make you wonder what more she has in store for you, doesn’t she?
Words by Shalini Tripathi