Mechanical manufacturing may have evolved fashion in the modern age but handmade craftsmanship continues to hold its high value. The mastery of artisans rendering patchwork, applique work, the art of crochet, quilting and cross-stitch embroidery bequeathed to new generations is still thriving in fashion, courtesy of a few revivalist designers.
Handmade Extraordinaire
Every handcrafted piece is one of its kind. The variations in its uniformity lend an artisanal value to the products. The re-emergence of ‘Craftcore’ can be tapped from the DIY fascination attracted by artisans on Youtube and Social Media. Designers whose core aesthetics revolve around sustainable elements have renewed these handicrafts in the couture and high fashion domain. The nostalgia that these crafts evoke has fuelled the mindfulness of consumers and reckoned with new-age style sensibilties.
Crochet
The hobby craft is forming the core aesthetic of Oushk by Ussama Shabbir, Blush and M, and Nadima Saqib. The essence of nostalgia and artisanal value of knitting and crocheting steers clear from cookie-cutter designs, making each creation indispensable. Bright colours and rich textures rendered from crocheting is indigenous to the bohemian spirit. From boho-chic looks to espadrille shoes, crochet has transcended from winters to a whole new outdoorsy vibe in this era.
Patchwork
Eco-conscious designers have been championing craftcore long before it became a subculture in modern-age fashion. Saaksha & Kinni, Ofrida, Doodlage are brands recognised for devising artsy patchwork to create statement jackets and separates. Juxtaposing colours and textures of discarded fabric pieces sewn together is an imaginative and imperative art practised in slow fashion.
Applique Work
The ornamental needlework patch cut and sewn onto the final garment defines the unique 3-dimensional craftsmanship of applique work. Aisha Rao has a knack for rendering the craft onto maximalist bridal ensembles. On contrary, Vaayu subscribes to a sombre approach to the applique work.
Tie & Dye
Tie & dye techniques like shibori, bandhani, leheriya have offered novelty creations that can be cherished as handmade specialities. Khara Kapas places shibori-dyed patterns strategically on silhouettes to create an exquisite design. Sangeeta Kilachand builds her signature style with classic connotations of bandhani patterns. Nupur Kanoi’s contemporary take of Rajasthan’s native leheriya has a universal appeal.
Eternally special sweet nostalgia
Handmade craftsmanship has been the definition of Indian couture beyond just a trend du jour. Designers have been reckoning with age-old embroideries for decades to define their signature with crafts like crochet, tie & dye, patchwork. The crafts are practised by Indian artisans and the core is Indian culture. Craftcore can be considered more than just a catchphrase is thus proven.
