How Ethnic Fashion Is Reviving And Promoting Traditional Artisanal Techniques

In today's mass-produced and disposable fashion world, it is more crucial than ever to preserve traditional crafts. Fortunately, many ethnic design companies are actively attempting to revitalise and promote these skills because they understand the significance of ancient artisanal methods.

Working with craftsmen and craft communities is one way that these companies are maintaining traditional crafts. The craftspeople and designers of the brand frequently exchange information and abilities throughout these collaborations. The artisans can demonstrate their abilities and methods, and the designers can use these methods in their creations. These partnerships enable the creation of distinctive and significant pieces of clothing in addition to the preservation of traditional crafts.

Preserving Traditional Crafts

The use of natural and sustainable materials is another way ethnic fashion companies are protecting ancient skills. Natural materials like cotton, silk, and wool are used in many traditional crafts. These materials frequently come from local sources and are environmentally friendly. By utilising these resources, businesses may help regional farmers and craftspeople while lessening their goods’ carbon imprint.

Numerous ethnic fashion companies use both natural materials and conventional colouring methods. These methods frequently make use of natural dyes derived from plant ingredients, such as indigo, turmeric, and madder root. These dyes enable companies to produce distinctive and brilliant colours that are not possible with synthetic dyes. These age-old dyeing methods support environmentally responsible and sustainable fashion while also preserving traditional crafts.

Khaadi, a Pakistani clothing line, is an illustration of an ethnic fashion company that is actively preserving ancient skills. Khaadi collaborates with artisans in rural Pakistan to create hand-woven fabrics using age-old methods like the pit loom. Along with incorporating embroidery and block printing techniques into their designs, the firm also uses natural dyes derived from regional plants. Khaadi is able to produce distinctive and significant pieces of clothing while conserving traditional crafts by collaborating with artisans and employing traditional processes and materials.

Another illustration is the company Taiana Designs, which aims to preserve the age-old art of needlework. Taiana uses traditional embroidery techniques like zardozi and suzani to make hand-embroidered items in collaboration with Uzbek artists. Traditional motifs and patterns are incorporated into the brand's designs, along with natural fabrics like silk and cotton. Taiana Designs is able to make lovely and significant pieces of clothing by conserving the traditional embroidery craft and encouraging regional artists.

As a founder of an ethnic brand myself, I am committed to providing possibilities for Indian craftsmen through my organisation. I collaborate closely with local artisans and craftspeople, giving them a forum to demonstrate their talents and ingenuity. My organisation, Roohme, can offer unique and sustainable items that benefit local communities by collaborating with these artists. I am dedicating all my efforts to creating a better world for future generations by appreciating the beauty of Indian handicrafts, preserving traditional crafts, creating opportunities for local craftspeople, and encouraging sustainable fashion practices.

In conclusion, ethnic fashion companies are making a significant contribution to preserving traditional crafts and advancing ecologically friendly and sustainable fashion. These firms are able to produce distinctive and significant pieces of clothing while conserving traditional crafts by working with craftspeople and utilising natural and sustainable materials. These initiatives benefit the communities and craftspeople involved and advance a more ethical and conscientious approach to fashion.

Authored by Latika Sharma, Co-Founder of Roohme - A leading Chikankari Brand

Suggested reading: Five Women Entrepreneurs From Uttarakhand Using Traditional Culture For Regional Development