Delhi Label Hindostan Archive’s Distinctive Menswear Is Handwoven & Homegrown

Hindostan Archive

Published on:

13 Mar 2025, 12:45 pm

3 min read

Half the clothes in my wardrobe these days are from the men's section and I have no qualms about it. There was a point in time when I agonised over what my size was and wanted to wear feminine clothes, and somehow that meant it was stylish to me. Perhaps it's the wisdom (and exhaustion) that has come with age, that I refuse to box myself in - to sizes that vary from store to store and to adhere to the designs deemed ‘gender-appropriate’ by unknown entities. While watching for interesting menswear brands, I have had the joy of discovering a number of disruptive homegrown fashion brands.

Hindostan Archive is a contemporary menswear brand that merges South Asian textiles, craft culture, and heritage with modern silhouettes. Founded in 2022 by National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) alumni Sahil Meenia and Shaoni Ray, the brand has gained recognition for its commitment to preserving traditional crafts while appealing to a global audience.The inception of the Hindostan Archive is deeply rooted in the personal histories of its founders. Both Sahil and Shaoni have ancestral ties to regions affected by the partition of the Indian subcontinent - Sialkot, Pakistan, and Dhaka, Bangladesh, respectively. Their shared heritage and passion for Indian textiles led them to collaborate during their time at NIFT in New Delhi. This partnership was further solidified through extensive travels across India, where they engaged with artisans practicing age-old techniques. These experiences inspired them to create a brand that bridges the gap between tradition and modernity, honouring the Gandhian philosophy of preserving and promoting handloom textiles globally.

What began as an internship project quickly transformed into a burgeoning fashion label. In 2022, Hindostan Archive launched its debut collection, "Celebrating India," which garnered unexpected acclaim. The brand's approach caught the attention of prominent figures, with singer Diljit Dosanjh being the first celebrity to don their designs. This initial success was followed by the Autumn/Winter 2022 collection, "East Meets West," showcased on their website.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hindostan Archive (@hindostanarchive)

As Hindostan Archive's reputation grew, it attracted a diverse clientele, including Bollywood celebrities and international fashion enthusiasts. Notable admirers such as Vijay Varma, and Prateek Kuhad have worn the brand's desings, on stage and off. Today, the Hindostan Archive boasts a global community spanning the world. Their collections are featured in multi-boutique showrooms in many concept stores, and they have a loyal international customer base. The brand's participation in Paris Fashion Week Spring Summer 2025 further signifies its rising prominence on the international stage.

The name ‘Hindostan Archive’ reflects the brand's mission and cultural significance. ‘Hindostan’ refers to the pre-partition era of the Indian subcontinent, encompassing present-day India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. This choice resonates with the founders' ancestral roots and their dedication to reviving ancient textiles. The term ‘Archive’ speaks to their commitment to preserving and documenting traditional techniques, crafts, and stories that have defined the region for centuries. The brand's logo is inspired by an image of Emperor Akbar's shield featuring Surya, the Hindu god of strength. This design choice reflects Akbar's respect for different faiths and symbolizes the brand's ethos of unity and inclusivity. Additionally, elements of Kalighat-style art from 19th-century Bengal are incorporated. The logo encapsulates self-belief, divine power, and creation, mirroring the Hindostan Archive's important values.

Hindostan Archive is committed to sustainability and ethical production practices. The brand utilizes natural dyes derived from ingredients like turmeric, indigo, and pomegranate rind, offering unique, earthy colours while minimizing environmental impact. Fabrics such as kala cotton, khadi, and handloom silks are sourced organically and handwoven by skilled artisans, ensuring quality and durability. Traditional craftsmanship is central to their creations, featuring handwoven techniques, hand embroidery, and fine hand knitting. According to the brand, their continued collaboration with award-winning artisans and the use of handcrafted embellishments are what add a distinctive touch of artistry to their pieces.