Looking to buy local clothes that are ethically produced by homegrown artisans from across India? We present to you a list of top ten sustainable Indian brands that bring the best of hand-block prints, embroidery, and applique, as well as the talent of our artisans right into your wardrobe! What’s more, their cotton collections are perfect for the perpetual summer we experience in most parts of India and help you achieve that attractive ethnic-chic look.
Something about the absolute harmony between the earthy red and the intense blue of Ajrakh reminds me of the perfection of a well-made hot chocolate- comforting and intoxicating in equal measure.
A year back, I would never have believed that I would even consider adding Indian textiles to my wardrobe. So what changed, you ask? An eye-opening visit to Bhujodi, Gujarat- the home of Ajrakh. Surrounded by the smells and the colours for days on end...it felt like I was hypnotized. I felt almost ashamed that I hadn’t registered their beauty years before! So here I am now, on a quest to quench my desire for handcrafted Indian textiles, walking the line between ancient artforms and a modern boho-chic taste in clothing.
I’ve compiled below, from personal experience, a list of boutiques and brands that work with artisans to provide them with a livelihood and you with an unbounded joy of their handiwork. That said, it’s important to remember that since these are ethical brands that are paying the artisans what they deserve for their hard work, they aren’t exactly cheap. The list below encompasses brands with a range of prices that has something for everyone. Plus they are really long-lasting, and what’s even better is that they get softer and more comfortable with each wash! Hence you can be sure of finding a good variety with excellent value for money. By the end of quarantine, you can emerge with a revamped wardrobe and a glow-up that not only is friendly to the climate we live in, but also has ethical roots! From dresses and scarves to sarees, shop their collection from the comfort of your homes or visit the nearest stores at your convenience.
Hands of India
HOI recently went online in an effort to reach more people and market its eco-friendly handmade products. Their designs are super quirky, combined with the bold magic of hand block prints, they really help you stand out in a crowd. In my experience, the fit of the clothing is also fabulous and all in all, they make for some really unique outfits at a price that is reasonable, considering they are limited edition.
Rangsutra
Rangsutra prides itself on being “inspired by the past, but perfect for today,” and their designs truly reflect that. From edgy dresses to traditional sarees with a twist, this company brings to you unique weaves from four states-Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Kashmir and Manipur in a completely sustainable fashion.
Farida Gupta
Farida Gupta’s collections are the epitome of subtle elegance. From pastel paisleys to cream floral prints, they have an aesthetic that is instantly recognizable. I speak of their latest collection. However, I had purchased the two kurtas I own from an older collection that was comfortable (and insanely long-lasting, making it sustainable) and trendy, bringing forth bolder colours and patterns. Nevertheless, their innovative designs and colour pairing never fail to please the eye.
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Vamangini
Vamangini from Jaipur is a relatively small brand that my mother had discovered when we were living in Delhi. At the time, their most interesting line was a range of bright, printed palazzos that instantly bespoke summer! (pictured). The vivid blues and oranges were definitely eye-catching and when paired with even a simple kurta/t-shirt (and the right accessories) could make you look like you walked right out of an ethnic lookbook.
(Plus: Your conscience can rest easy knowing you supported a small, homegrown Indian business in these challenging times)
Gulab Chand
Gulab Chand’s brand name is synonymous with Rajasthani hand-block printing. The brand aims to “enliven” the intricate art form and constantly evolve with the trends of the time while staying rooted in the centuries-old tradition of the art that constantly inspires them. Apart from the characteristic hues that closely resemble eco-friendly vegetable dyes, they experiment with pairing different types of craftwork to an excellent result (in-picture). What’s more, their website showcases different collections for all occasions and even sells handcrafted blocks for those of you who are brave enough to try it out at home.
Sabhyata
Sabhyata was another store that we frequented during our days in Delhi. Their dynamic range of cotton clothing was not only perfect for the weather but also made any outfit instantly ethnic. Their prices are also easier on the pocket, especially if you get to visit the stores first hand. For now, you can find them on general platforms like Amazon and Myntra.
Soma
Soma, like Gulab Chand, specializes in hand block prints. Their current collection is perfect for summer in shades of yellow and orange that feel light and airy even when you just look at them. And true to that, the feel of the cotton they use is always phenomenal and forever comfortable. I love the cut of the dress my mother had bought from them. The design paired with the print is definitely out of the ordinary, pleasing to look at and wear!
The Shop
The Shop has perfected the aesthetic of Jaipur hand block prints in pastel colours with a trademark of birds and flowers that perpetually feel like spring. The combination of the beautiful patterns in light colours on ultra-light cotton is ideal for the hot weather we experience here. Also, the elegance of their designs literally screams “designerwear!”, especially when paired with cream palazzos or flared pants.
Kalpastree by Kalpadruma
Kalpastree uses lesser-known handloom styles like embroidery and applique in their collections along with the typically indie hand-block prints. Their tagline of “responsible living” greatly resonates with the lifestyle that we at indi.origin want to associate with. What’s more, while shopping for their elegant collections of clothing, you can also find handcrafted and homegrown interior decor to spruce up your house and truly be one step closer to achieving the indi-aesthetic!
Porgai
Porgai originates from the lesser-known artisan-rich region of Dharmapuri in Tamil Nadu. They specialize in the homegrown form of Lambadi embroidery, adapting it to contemporary styles on sarees, kurtas, and stoles. Although they don’t have a big brand to back them, their work is as humble and honest as it gets. The pieces they make are limited edition and they even take orders for customized pieces from their customers!
Anokhi
Anokhi brings the unending joy of Jaipuri hand block prints to shops all across the country. Although they haven't gone online yet, one visit to any of their outlets will immediately explain why. Their shops are carefully crafted with great attention to detail to bring you their collections in the environment they are meant to be seen in and are a joy to visit just for their distinctly indie vibe! To get an idea of the range of their collections that seamlessly craft the prints into the most quirky jumpsuits and dresses, visit their Instagram page.
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Pro-tip: Although many of these brands seem expensive, know that the clothes they make are long-lasting and get more comfortable as you wear them for longer. Also, sales on these sites are the perfect time to snag many of the beauties you’ve had your eye on. :)
Photography is done in-house! Please be sure to ask for permission before sharing any of the work on indi.origin and give due credit!
All research about brands is from their websites and from personal experience. For inquiries email us at indi.origin@gmail.com.
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