Digitalization and mechanical manufacturing could be the modern new, but the craftsmanship done by human hand has formed the core of fashion in India. Feeling the uneven texture of a handwoven khadi fabric, feasting eyes on the beautifully loomed golden threads on a Benarasi sari, it is the mastery of a skilful artisan that brings a handspun yarn to a timeless life. It isn’t the consistency in finish or uniformity in patterns that intrigues an onlooker but always the little slubs, the intricacies in embroidery and the varying warps and wefts that make every handmade piece different.
Ever since we began to value things, handmade has held the highest order. It’s a given that anything handmade is a one-off piece that only you own. What’s even more special is that you get the best of both worlds-aesthetics and ethics. Every artistry which is nothing like the cookie-cutter designs that you spot everywhere is specialized by little craft clusters whose core is Indian culture. You get an essence of tradition translated into a handmade product. It’s imperative to fairly play your role in fostering the community that has produced it for you; for small businesses that thrive on your support. With the pandemic pausing production and gradually slowing means of earning for local artisans, ‘Vocal for Local’ should be considered more than just a trending catchphrase. Besides having a noble intention towards every purchase you make, check the box of quality over quantity and maintain your mindful sartorial choices.
Working with authentic weaves of India, designer Vaishali S injects her futuristic takes with handmade three-dimensional textures; created with a precision that is unmatchable. A revivalist and a designer, Anita Dongre always has stood in solidarity with the artisans specializing in hand-honed skills. From wedding-worthy lehengas to breezy dresses, her lineup of hand block printed pret & couture has distinguished the brand as the most-desired one amongst modern women. Punit Balana, on the other hand, enriches organic fabrics with hand-dyed patterns that strike the fancy of everyone around the runway. When haute couture is the finest form of fashion, it is only possible with the immaculate perfection of a skilled pattern-maker, craftsman and the talented force that works with the designer. Even as we move forward with innovations and technology, there is a pressing need to nurture the creators of these handmade special somethings that last us through eternity.
Anita Dongre