When you think about it, India is probably one of the few countries with a rich artisanal heritage. Our kaarigars are known for their craftsmanship, and luckily for us, several Indian brands are working with these artisans. Believing in fair trade, paying artisans, fair and square, and involving them in every step of the way, a few lifestyle brands are setting a fantastic example. And if you're up for supporting local artisans, shop from these lifestyle brands.
Vocal For Local: 13 Lifestyle Brands That Work To Support Local Artisans
Mrid Cera
Mrid Cera is a ceramics brand based out of Rajasthan. Everything that the brand offers is handcrafted by artisans and we love how their pieces have a slice of both contemporary and traditional designs. Two things worth checking out: Studio Pottery Ceramic Serving Tea Cups and Studio Pottery Ceramic Serving Beer Mugs. These stoneware ceramic pieces are non-toxic and also microwave and dishwasher-friendly. You can shop for this brand, right here at LBB.
Cancelled Plans
Cancelled Plans — a Hyderabad-based clothing and accessories label is worth talking about. The label works with local factories and industries to collect industrial and pharmaceutical waste, which are later transformed into durable fabric. Sounds great, isn't it? Everything is then handcrafted — the artisans weave, stitch, and embroider the material. All of that waste could have ended up in landfills and debris is given a new lease of life, and what's not to love? Their sweatshirts and bags are so edgy and creative. Besides, they've just dropped a new collection in collaboration with Aditi Rao Hydari, which the actor has designed herself.
All That Grass
All That Grass has all that sass! We know that sounds cliched but we're being candid, alright. This Bombay-based sustainable decor brand works directly with artisans, without any middlemen involvement. They've also garnered a solid relationship with the artisans, which honestly reflects in their products. Three things worth checking out: Ikat Flap Detail Banana Fiber Cross-Body Bag, Sabai-Cherry Red Planter, and Sun With Pink Lining - Kauna Organiser. Talking about minimalism, this brand scores ten on ten.
Label Raasleela
An indie brand that's fun, sustainable, and handcrafted — Label Raasleela works with Indian artisans. The label aims at making comfortable clothing for women and we love that they play with colour. While their hand-dyed fabrics and beautiful block prints are crafted in Jaipur, their ikat is handwoven in Andhra Pradesh. It's also one of those awesome brands that offers pockets in every dress. Their kurta-pant sets have our heart, and if you're looking for comfy am-pm wear, check Rasleela out.
Rangsutra Crafts
With a motto to improve rural livelihood, Rangsutra works with Indian artisans and ensures they are fairly paid. This is a community-driven crafts organisation that's known for its beautiful fusion wear. Prioritising comfort and sustainability over anything else, you can expect lots of handlooms, traditional weaves, etc. that are crafted keeping contemporary designs in mind. We recommend checking out their Bagru Kota Sarees and Tie & Dye dresses. And the best part? You can shop for them on LBB.
A Tiny Mistake
Shopping from A Tiny Mistake is genuinely not a mistake although you'll end up blowing up your salary. Everything is handcrafted and the brand believes in being vocal for local so they source from artisans and work with them too. From home decor and kitchenware to accessories and furniture — their bespoke furniture is worth having a conversation about. They experiment with Indian art forms and crafts and honestly, these products will make your home look more than just beautiful. If you cannot get enough of earthenware, you'll find plenty of reasons to shop more here.
Ukti
You know what we truly love about Ukti? This Bangalore-based label makes even comfort clothing look runway ready. They work with artisans of Karnataka to craft their outfits and we love that they experiment with handloom pieces. The fabric is so gentle on our skin that it legit reminds us of our grandma's sarees. Two things worth checking out: Red Ikat Shift Dress and Puff Sleeved Printed Wrap Dress. Also, this label is affordable and sustainable.
Okhai
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Okhai is an Indian handmade and sustainable label that exclusively works with rural artisans of India. Bringing traditional skills and technique into play, this label allows its artisans to design products that are close to their culture and heritage. Every product you shop from Okhai has a story, and that's what we appreciate. They've got home decor, apparel, and accessories. And you can shop based on the craft too, like mirror work, Applique work, block printing, Shibori, Kantha, and many more. Their clothing is super comfortable and we think you should check out their beautiful dresses and jackets.
Bare Necessities
Bangalore-based Bare Necessities is yet another brand that involves local artisans in the making of its products. Run by an all-women team, this brand sources ethically from local farmers and vendors. They aim to create a zero-waste lifestyle, thereby reduce the single-usage of products. Their range of handmade products includes bamboo toothbrushes, make-up removers, body scrubs, beeswax lip balms, and even natural, aerosol-free dry shampoo. Bare Necessities also offers online courses and e-books on zero waste education.
P-Tal
One look at P-Tal's products and you're reminded of your grandma's kitchen. This lifestyle brand aims to revive a dying art form of Thathera community of Jandiala Guru based out in Amritsar. This craft is also the first Indian craft to be etched in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2014. They work with the artisans to craft sustainable products that are of great historical significance. From handmade teacups and teapots to brass cocktail glasses and brass planters — they've got an array of kitchenware and cookware worth checking out.
Bunaai
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The hand painted designs and patterns by Bunaai are curated with love by the artisans, who put in all their efforts to bring out the best in an outfit. Get the best of experimental textiles, vibrant prints, and detailed craftsmanship for Indian ethnic wear. Their hand painted suit sets are a must-have wardrobe addition.
Dhaaga Handcrafts
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This brand is a unique blend of trendy and eco-friendly handcrafted delights. Dhaaga Handcrafts is a sustainable and slow fashion line. All the products are handmade by skilled women. They braid, embroider, embellish, stitch, sew and finish the products using different techniques while maintaining the product nature of being handcrafted. Get all kinds of stunning clutches, handbags and potlis.
Hatheli
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Hatheli means palm of the hand and this brand offers wholly human-created products. Using hand dyeing techniques, the local artisans create Bandhani , Lehariya, Sibhori , Batik, Block printing and so much more. There's plenty for men to choose from as well. Even the handwork like embroidery, mirror work, gota patti, sequins are delicately done to enhance the piece. We love the vast collection of salwar suits from Hatheli.