Homegrown Brands Bridging The Past, Present, & The Future With Modern Heirlooms

Remember the days when you used to twirl around with your mother's chunnis, or when your grandmother draped her sarees around you? Opening your wardrobe and taking out the bag of heirloom pieces after years brings all those memories rushing back. While heirlooms are often thought of as jewellery, clothing carries its own emotional and sentimental weight. These garments possess a timeless quality, much like the memories they evoke. 

An heirloom is not just a piece of clothing; it symbolises our connection to the past and a bridge to the future. These pieces, carefully chosen for their timeless quality, craftsmanship, and enduring appeal, hold significant value and are intended to be passed down through generations. They represent a tangible link between past, present, and future, reminding us of our roots and our potential to create lasting legacies. Here's a list of brands championing the embrace of modern heirlooms and the longevity of clothing.

Raw Mango draws from the colours, philosophies and cultures of India to create a unique voice, questioning place and perspective through design. Over a decade ago, the brand embarked on its journey with a singular vision — to revive and rejuvenate India's rich handloom heritage. From Banarasi brocades to Chanderi silks and from Tussar to Mashru, the brand doesn't just create beautiful garments; it tells stories. 

Follow the brand here. 

The label Divyam Mehta was born from a contemplated design philosophy, intertwining native crafts with an edgy modernity. Each collection reflects an organic and rooted design voice, conveying an international aesthetic that is relevant today. Focusing on local textiles, artisanal construction details and relaxed silhouettes, the label interprets a timeless perspective where craft is woven into the soul of the garment. Emphasizing a commitment to slow fashion and ethical business practices, the brand attempts to maintain high-quality standards while producing consciously in limited numbers. 

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'Péro' means 'to wear' in Marwari, the local language of Rajasthan. Péro interprets an international aesthetic using local materials and skills, taking inspiration from what surrounds us to make a product that connects with people wherever in the world it is placed. The Indianness of péro rests in the textile process, where materials pass from the hands of one craftsperson to the other, carrying forward the Indian tradition of handcrafting and creating pieces that are at once unique.

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Shantanu and Nikhil traces progressivism and distinctiveness by encapsulating the vibrancy of vintage India and blending it with the glee and excitement of Modern India. A strong advocate of egalitarianism created the foundation of the Shantanu & Nikhil couture philosophy and its centricity on gender fluidity. Following an anti-trend path, Shantanu & Nikhil can be best described as a contemporary disruptor with a strong sentiment of Indian pride. Their garments communicate a story to the wearer to replicate the celebratory values of the occasion, making them relive the experience each time they adorn their piece of couture. 

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Anita Dongre believes that fashion plays a defining role in enhancing a person's confidence and sense of self. The brand creates designs that are versatile enough to transcend places and occasions. Whether it is a bridal lehenga, a sherwani, or a well-cut jacket, the intention is to offer customers a piece they will love and wear for many years. They pay homage to the supreme craftsmanship of India by creating exquisite ensembles and handcrafted jewellery. Anita Dongre epitomises a simple, essential thought — to create a beautiful tomorrow for their customers and the planet. 

Follow the brand here. 

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