Aesthetique organised Spring Story by Looms, Weaves and More in association with The Telegraph, an exhibition of handloom and handcrafted products that paid rich tribute to India’s glorious tradition of natural fabrics and weaves. Held from March 16 - 18 at Vicky Gardens, Gol Park, it was a specially curated show of handloom and handicraft works by award-winning craftsmen and designers from all over the country. Featuring fabrics, textiles, arts and crafts of various states of India, each stall showcased products created using the specialised weaving technique of that state. On display was a colourful and diverse assortment of handwoven saris, Indo-Western outfits, dress materials, home linen, jewellery, bags, pottery and many more. Along with a crowd of excited shoppers, t2 checked out the collection on show and picked some that you too can add to your summer shopping list.
These unstitched salwar sets on cotton and silk fabrics by Daisy Desert, Barmer, have shadow applique work in geometric patterns done on them. Suitable for everyday wear, they are available in many colours and are perfect to brighten up a dull morning at work. Rs 3,200 (cotton); Rs 4,500 (silk) and Rs 5,500 (tussore silk)
Make fusion dressing your personal style when you wear this bottle green denim skirt with ajrakh detailing, by Nakshii. Rs 2,500
Silver Lining by Ishita has a stunning temple-themed statement neckpiece in real silver with real pearls on its pendant. Striking miniature replicas of Ganesha, Lakshmi and Saraswati form the structure of its oversized pendant, while synthetic rubies and emeralds adorn the jadau set. Rs 17,000
Go for a purely traditional look on Poila Baisakh with this exquisite dhoti and kurta set from Chirasree Boutique. The maroon kurta in angrakha design is in cotton silk and has kantha stitch work down its front (Rs 2,500). The matching dhoti has a broad red border in block print. Rs 1,250
D’Mystique Diva has an eye-catching collection of handmade jute laptop bags in ethnic designs that can add a dash of colour to your workstation and make for great gifting options as well. Rs 1,600
Shrivatsa’s collection of Ayurvedic clothing ensures better body breathing. A crown top dyed in turmeric paired with a jute half jacket (Rs 1,750) and a grey full-sleeved top with its neck area and sleeve-ends dyed in neem, with the rest of it dyed in tulsi (Rs 1,540) caught our attention.
Accessorise your occasionwear or dailywear outfits with these gorgeous brass-withsilver finish earrings by Monjima, available in a wide range of ethnic, contemporary and quirky designs, some of them studded with semi-precious stones in interesting shades and shapes. Rs 300-800
Get ready for wedding rituals this summer with this mustardcoloured handspun khadi by tussore sari from Saree Sinduk that has handwoven jamdani work all over its body and a narrow red and zari border. Rs 8,650
Elganza had a collection of no-fuss gamchha shirt dresses in multicoloured checks that will sit easy on your skin for hours. Rs 1,700. Also available are straight-cut long frocks with jamdani work on pure cotton that will keep you cool and comfortable all day. Rs 2,700
We checked out the amazing collection of handembroidered designer blouses in cotton by Eco Tantu. Their threadwork and mirror-work blouses are available in a wide array of designs, cuts and colours and are also customisable. Prices vary from Rs 950 to Rs 2,500
Look classy and chic with these handmade and hand-embroidered bags and clutches by Charu and Recrea, North-East, that are made by women of Manipur from kauna grass, a natural fibre. Rs 950 onwards
Co-founders of Aesthetique, Maitreyee Pathak (left) and Sanchita Ghosh. “Looms, Weaves and More is a celebration of Indian weaves where tradition blends with elegance. People love to shop here because they know they can find the unique traditional crafts of India. Besides visitors, our craftsmen and artisans also look forward to this show,” said Maitreyee Pathak. “Looms, Weaves and More tries to promote weavers of natural fabrics and designers who work with them. Also, each stall at this exhibition showcases a unique craft of the state it represents, be it handloom or handicraft. We are happy that in the 10 years of this exhibition’s journey, we have been able to bring together the different traditional art and crafts of India in one place. Since the women of Calcutta are known for their love for saris and prefer sustainable clothing, we hope that this time too they will have a wonderful shopping experience,” said Sanchita Ghosh.
