It's time to celebrate style with a purpose – yes, we're diving into the world of ethical fashion! When it comes to dressing up in Indian wear, why not do it in a way that supports eco-friendly practices and fair trade? Here are some awesome tips to shop guilt-free while embracing ethical fashion.
First things first, let's talk about eco-friendly fabrics. Opt for clothing made from organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo. These materials not only look fabulous but also leave a smaller environmental footprint. They're grown without harmful pesticides and chemicals, making them a sustainable choice.
Another key aspect of ethical fashion is social sustainability. Look out for brands that prioritise fair wages and working conditions for their artisans and workers. Supporting these brands means you're contributing to a better livelihood for skilled craftsmen across India. Now, let's dive into the treasure trove of brands that champion social causes and ethical practices in Indian wear.
Anita Dongre
Rewild 2023 | Image Source: Instagram/anitadongre
Anita Dongre actively empowers artisans, revives handloom, and practices sustainability in fashion. Through fair wages, eco-conscious materials, and community programs, it supports artisans' livelihoods, education, and healthcare, making a positive impact on society and the planet. In addition to the designer’s line of Indian wear made from sustainable fibers like tencel, cupro and a line of vegan accessories made from Mirum, Dongre’s latest step towards sustainability has taken conscious fashion in India to new heights. Recently, the designer hosted Rewild 2023- a fundraiser hosted amidst Jaipur's grandeur, set at the historic City Palace, supporting elephant conservation. This inaugural event aids the Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF) in preserving elephant corridors and reducing human-animal conflict in South India.
Asha Gautam
Designer Asha Gupta with Paithani weavers | Image Source: Asha Gautam
Indian wear label Asha Gautam is known for its work with crafts like Banarasi, Bandhani, and most importantly, Paithani, a craft they have worked with the longest. In a collaborative effort, the brand skillfully designs and weaves Paithani’s diverse patterns, expanding the use of their creations across various garment types like anarkalis, lehengas, kurtas, dupattas, and borders. This innovative approach has ignited a revolution within the weaving industry, inspiring unaffiliated artisans to adopt and replicate these techniques, subsequently boosting their sales. ‘Ensuring the financial security of our weavers is a top priority; thus, we operate on a 100 per cent advance payment system. This approach allows our artisans to focus wholeheartedly on their craft without the burden of financial concerns,’ adds Gautam Gupta, co-owner of Asha Gautam. Additionally, the brand repurposes existing designs, incorporating them into appliqué work or unique two-piece sarees, thereby offering additional financial support to the weavers while minimising waste through innovative techniques.
Paithani Sari, Asha Gautam | Image Source: Instagram/ashagautamofficial
Sacred Weaves
Artisan at Sacred Weaves | Image Source: Sacred Weaves
Sacred Weaves, an heirloom brand, harmonises ancient Banarasi weaves with online accessibility, showcasing handcrafted pure silk sarees meticulously designed and preserved with remarkable attention to detail. While it’s one of the best places to get your hands on some great silks for your Indian wear wardrobe, you also get a commitment to authenticity, as each saree under the label comes with a certificate affirming its lineage and craftsmanship. ‘For decades our idea has embarked on the concept of manufacturing our products locally, enhancing the local weavers to lead a life with their hereditary business and, hence enhancing their livelihood. Being the pioneers of handwoven silk Banarasi sarees, we at Sacred Weaves have kept the culture of employing mass weavers and their generations and thus keeping the entire community growing and living in harmony,’ says Shruti Shah, CEO and founder of Sacred Weaves.
Handcrafted Silk Sari, Sacred Weaves| Image Source: Instagram/sacredweaves