If ever you need to shop, but do so with a soul and some charity, then head on over to Ikikai, a Bangalore-based enterprise. A wonderful new e-store that covers everything from women’s apparel and kids merchandise to ceramics and art, this one is more about the heart. Not only do they support all local brands and women-powered brands, something which is very close to LBB’s own ethos, but they also work directly with creators and enterprises supporting differently-abled people and reformation and rehabilitation programs too. Part of your purchase too goes to these establishments, so like I said, shopping with a soul.
You can get yourself hand-crafted bags, hand-embroidered dresses, scarves and stoles, as well as lovely saris from The Shop, a family-owned business that marries indigenous techniques and traditional patterns in a modern design. For gifting, check out the cushion covers and bags from Kumbaya which empowers ‘poor women and people of disability with the art of stitching’. If it’s jewellery you’re after, Rahi’s curation of earrings that are one-of-a-kind literally and are inspired by nature and quirk. Or, for something more traditional, Sabala Handicrafts’ chunky necklaces are ideal. Plus, you’ll be supporting over 240 women artisans!
Home decor ranges from bedspreads and covers to table covers and runners, as well as candles, organisers, fragrances, ceramic mugs, plates and more. For those wanting to invest in art, here’s a good space to directly support artists and brighten up your home without quite burning a hole in your pocket. Obviously, it’s art, so expect prices of INR 50,000 to INR 75,000.