They say that trauma is stored in the body; that your mind might dissociate but your body never forgets. I instinctually understand and agree with that notion. There's a reason why despite how eclectic and cool leisure wear can get, I just can't seem to get out of my cheap, super soft night dresses that I wear all day at home. It's because my body remembers all the overstimulated moments of sequined ethnic dresses sinking into my skin during celebratory events in my childhood. The layers of fabric; the tight fit that'd put straitjackets to shame; the footwear that was somehow always too narrow squishing my toes; all of this in peak summer: this was my definition of body horror.
As a result, comfort is now a priority for me. I don't care if I look underdressed at weddings as long as I'm not trying to get out of my skin like some demon-possessed child.
Srishtie Budhia, the founder of Serai had a similar realization about her European wardrobe; that it wasn't made for an Indian climate. Having worked with handwoven textiles for Tula, a home decor and home furnishing brand, she noticed a gap in the market for high-quality, breathable apparel suited to the Indian weather. Serai was created to fill that gap, offering clothing made from natural textiles that are comfortable, stylish, and perfect for India’s climate.
Serai is a brand that rejects the fleeting nature of fast fashion, choosing instead to celebrate timelessness and longevity. Using high-quality, handloom textiles designed in-house, the brand places a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and sustainability. Every garment is carefully made in Serai’s atelier by a team of highly skilled artisans, ensuring that each piece is a lasting testament to slow, conscious fashion. “Serai isn’t just about clothing — it’s about creating pieces that become staples in your wardrobe, pieces you turn to again and again, our focus is on comfort and durability, making sure each garment fits perfectly and feels just right," says Shristie.
Derived from the Hindi word 'Serai', meaning a rest stop in deserted areas, the brand embodies the idea of offering ease and sanctuary to those navigating their day-to-day journeys. Serai garments promise to be the perfect go-to pieces, designed to fit effortlessly and make the wearer feel confident and at ease.
Serai's pieces feel like a second skin but not at the expense of style. Using textiles like Bangalore silk, 2-Ply Murshidabad Mulberry Silk, 84 count handloom cotton, and 60 count handloom linen, their clothes make great statement pieces that approach quiet luxury through a homegrown aesthetic. Shristie’s personal favourite from the brand's pre-fall collection 'Small Things' is the Chinar Top, a piece distinguished by its intricate embroidery and subtle, thoughtful details. “It’s the perfect example of how our garments combine elegance with ease, and it’s a piece that can be cherished for years", she explains.
Even through the pictures on the screen, the soft tenderness of Serai's garment come through that make you wanna touch and even wear them. Especially the silks that seem like they'd melt upon touch like cotton candy in water. The brand's sophistication comes from its elegance that draws attention to itself through its simplicity and sublime craft work. It exudes a gentleness that feels feminine and nurturing, something our overstimulated bodies could use.
Follow Serai here.
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