TKC Design Inc's Lehenga-Inspired Lingerie Is A Product Of Diasporic Expression

It is often funny to me, having read the broader history of South Asia, whenever I see the outrage of our people over something like lingerie or bathing suits. We’re a lot whose ancestors wore the bare minimum of clothes and decked up in jewellery galore. The very mindset of what counts as ‘decent’ that many continue to propagate is the result of colonisation more than the preservation of our culture, for example, the discovery of the blouse - which you can read all about here. But what is even funnier is to see the differentiation between a tiny ghagra choli vs a Western crop top, or between a daring draped gown vs. an equally sexy saree from many people that subscribe to older ideals. The kind of duality that exists in this regard perhaps goes far beyond funny, in how it has also managed to create cognitive dissonance of sorts. 

But then there are brands making Indian wear-inspired lingerie and/or bikinis, for the cheeky desi girls, who want to don a pair of ‘lehengarie’. A video from the brand TKC Designs has been doing the rounds on social media and the comments don’t disappoint - from calling it ‘gopi-bahu approved lingerie’ to ‘Sanskari Bikini’ and many, many more puns on the South Asian-inspired lingerie. While the wordplay and virality are what got this writer intrigued, the brand is one that has to offer a lot more than just the one viral design. We're not one for covering viral designs, but this lingerie was far too cheeky (literally and figuratively) for us to not take notice.

Founded by Taranjit Cheema, a Punjabi-origin fashion designer from Vancouver, British Columbia who is a Parsons New School grad, the lehenga lingerie is just one among the wide range of pieces that they have to offer. Covered by everyone from BrownGirlMag to Buzzfeed, TKC Design Inc. is a brand that has been lauded for its off-beat take on South Asian fashion inspirations. From handcrafted zari detailed structured jackets to statement dupattas emblazoned with “not next’, from zari detailed bows to fun, handworked shorts, their pieces are meant for young south asians who wants to flaunt their heritage, or even someone who simply loves the beautiful craft and design that South Asian fashion has to offer the world. 

However, the ‘Indian-Inspired Lingerie’ has become their definitive piece, and it is only made to order in limited numbers, remaining rightfully bespoke. But this writer is also itching to get her hands on their Artha garter, which she can’t help but be referred to as the ‘Gota Patti Garter’.

Follow TKC Design Inc. here.

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