Natural fabrics making a comeback

These garments that are organic, eco-friendly and cruelty-free

In the current world, with people being more aware of the need to make better choices for themselves and the environment, the society is starting to look at how one can improve the carbon footprint, and live more sustainably.

From using less plastic to choosing public transport over private vehicles, steps have been taken along the way to be better citizens of this planet. These efforts need to be adopted even when it comes to what we wear.

The fast fashion industry comprising giants such as Zara, Uniqlo, Fashion Nova, focus on mass production. They use low quality, low-value materials and production methods to bring the fashion from catwalk to high street in a matter of days. As fashion changes so quickly, these clothing items are to be worn for a season, or less, before the next design is on the shelves, and in people’s wardrobes. It should then come as no surprise that the fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries on earth.

From using cheap plastic-based fabrics such as nylon and polyester, excessive water pollution, facilitation of child labour in third world countries to underpaid labourers, the fast fashion industry is guilty of all of it.

Here are some alternatives to help you build a stylish, yet sustainable closet.

Maati

Maati by Neha Kabra works with a community in Rajasthan to create unique clothing with traditional Indian printing techniques. They upcycle their fabric and the dyes and print colours are borrowed from nature. Their garments are affordable and also come in completely plastic-free packaging.

No Nasties

No Nasties is Goa’s first organic clothing brand and a pioneer of sustainable fashion in India, founded by Apurva Kothari. They use organic cotton seeds on fair trade farms. Their entire seeds-to-clothes process is eco-friendly and ethical.

Ka-Shah

A brainchild of Karishma Shahani Khan and Wasim Khan, Ka-Shah uses natural fibre and aims at a zero-waste campaign called ‘Heart to Haat’, all in a bid to be more sustainable. They celebrate the roots of India, and firmly express their love for handcrafts. Their clothing and accessories fall into a more high-end category of fashion.

Nicobar

Another high-end and eco-friendly brand. Their clothing is more tropically inspired and their core line uses only organic cotton, along with natural fabrics like bamboo.

They are currently one of the bigger sustainable brands, with stores established across the country.

Hemp Kari

The latest addition to India’s growing hemp movement is the homegrown brand Hemp Kari. They offer natural hemp-based fabrics with traditional hand embroidery done by local artisans in Lucknow and nearby villages.

The tops are delivered in plastic-free packaging and use tags made of hemp paper.