Anita Dongre to Ritu Kumar: 5 designers who are taking Indian handloom global

A riot of colors accompanied by intricate patterns is what makes a woven fabric appealing. For decades, India has been a multi-cultural melting pot with diverse textiles and handlooms to its credit. It is this diversity that makes Indian designs and weaves alluring to one and all. And some Indian designers are on a mission to introduce this asset to the world, but with a modern touch.

From zardozi to brocade, ikat to embroidery and even khadi, Indian designers are bringing the best of Indian handlooms and designs to the global stage with each collection. On National Handloom Day, we bring to you five Indian designers who are taking Indian textiles global. 

With a flagship store in New York and having styled the likes of Kate Middleton, Beyonce, Hilary Clinton and Arianna Huffington, Anita Dongre is putting Indian textiles on the world map with her intricate designs. One of the earliest champions of sustainable fashion and Indian handlooms, the 57-year-old has given wings to local craftsmen and weavers through Grassroot Foundation which started in 2015. She is one of the few Indian designers who is working to revive traditional crafts and weaving techniques while empowering local artisans and tribal women. House of Anita Dongre, her label, seeks to put out Indian craftsmanship for the world with the sole aim of uplifting artisans. In 2019, she paid a tribute to her artisans by making them walk the ramp at the Lakme Fashion Week. Her latest collection, Crafts of India – An Ode to Bhuj, is proof of her love for Indian crafts and silhouettes. Featuring handwoven fabrics, rich embroidery and intricate patterns, the collection is a perfect tribute to the people and landscape of Kutch. Read More