Rastah’s Latest Collection Critiques The Subcontinent’s Relationship With The British Raj

Rastah, the premier South Asian artisanal urban wear brand, is known for its unique approach to blending South Asian heritage and artisanship with Western silhouettes and contemporary art. Their latest collection, VOLUME 10, is a thought-provoking exploration and critique of the subcontinent's complex relationship with the British Raj. This collection marks Rastah's five-year anniversary and showcases their commitment to creating garments that engage in meaningful dialogues about politics, culture, and history. While drawing inspiration from various sources, it's important to note that each piece in VOLUME 10 is imagined, sourced, and crafted in Pakistan, reinforcing the brand's deep roots in the region.

The hand embroidered emeral silk long coat is a masterpiece blending Mughal heritage and modern craftsmanship. Inspired by Mughal paintings, its design is meticulously hand-sketched and then embroidered on pure pistachio green silk over 30 days, using threads, pearls, stones, and embellishments. The result is a one-of-a-kind artistic marvel, a coat that pays homage to its historical roots.

The Barsaat Hand Embroadered Silk Shirt-Jacket is a vibrant masterpiece blending pistachio green, baby blue, deep rust, mustard, and regal pink silk panels. Inspired by traditional bridal embroidery, it offers a contemporary twist with hand-embroidered details, including white pearls on the regal pink silk lining. The flared sleeves, padded shoulders with a discreet slit, and silk-covered buttons with hand embroidery add elegance and edge. This piece exemplifies meticulous craftsmanship, taking 20 to 30 days to complete.

The Lost In Translation Bomber is a fusion of heritage and contemporary design. Crafted from handwoven heavyweight denim, it offers an oversized fit, functional patch pockets, and snap button closure. The standout feature is meticulous hand block printing by Aslam Saab, a fourth-generation block printer, adding unique artistry to this jacket.

The Abstract Mixed Media Jacket draws inspiration from British Raj-era Indian army uniforms, symbolizing unity and resistance against divisive strategies. Combining khaki cotton block print, red silk jamawar, and olive green wool, it tells a historical tale. The jacket features gold shoulder pads, hand-embroidered distressed badges, and golden button loops, blending opulence with tradition while challenging ideas of control and identity.

The Jamawar Military Coach Jacket is a luxurious masterpiece, seamlessly blending green and gold silk jacquard. Its intricate gold weaving on the verdant green background exudes regal elegance, while gold buttons and patch pockets add both style and utility. A meticulously tailored notch collar with black silk trim showcases exquisite attention to detail. Gold-embroidered shoulder loops and delicate sleeve badges enhance its opulence, solidifying its status as a work of sartorial art.

Check out the entire collection on Rastah's website here.

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