Turkey has been at the top of my list of places to visit for a while now, having heard a lot about how it reflects the confluence of east and west. The city of Istanbul was stunning, a treat for architecture, art and fashion lovers. The city offered luxury shopping destinations and bustling market places in equal measure.
The fair was held at the Istanbul Congress Center from 16th to 18th January 2020 and hosted over 20 countries showcasing upwards of 100 brands.
They exhibited everything from leather and textile, to cashmere, knitwear and luxury haute couture.
We were happy to be a part of this selection and were one of 3 Indian companies participating in this trade show. Our range included specialty suedes showcased through our own designs of jackets. Indie Culture accessories were also on display along with some of our distinctive pieces like the Duality embroidery jacket and the Weave, our woven leather jacket.
We were eager to attend Leshow this year, considering Turkey is a forerunner in the field of leather and garments. It holds the fourth place after Italy, China and India for being the biggest producer of leather.
Research on Turkey’s export numbers revealed that that textiles accounted for the greatest share (18.5%) of total goods exported from Turkey in 2015 (Source: Market research firm Euromonitor). In monetary terms, figures from the Turkish Ministry of Economy show a staggering value of $16.8bn from clothing exported in 2015.
With a geographical advantage, being at the centre of European and Asian commerce allows Turkey to offer shorter timelines to European buyers and a unique perspective in design. Management firms weigh in that this location leads to faster reactivity to market developments and trends.
In terms of style, I found the garments to be uniquely reflective of this with designs that married the European silhouettes with Asian techniques like appliqué and embroidery.
The fair was also a platform for Turkish designers and brands to throw light on the sustainable tanning methods they used and their policies on reducing wastage. In the wake of climate change, the country also prides itself on strict environmental controls when it comes to what it is producing. They claim that upto 70% of leather produced in the country is now done with sustainable methods, a statistic which was highlighted at the fair.
Experts from consulting firm Kurt Salmon believe that "Turkey takes a proactive stance on environmental concerns in the supply chain. It is one of the few countries to mandate all textile manufacturers to comply with internationally accepted environmental standards, which is another plus.”
The Turkish industry also asserts that its record on corporate social responsibility is improving.
Leshow had also organised fashion shows by Turkish brands which took place during the event and showcased a wide variety of local talent.
With attendees from Europe, North America, the Middle East, Russia and Asia, I foresee that Turkey, like Hong-Kong, will soon become a hotspot for buyers and suppliers to network, meet new vendors and increase their visibility on the world stage.
We left Turkey feeling energized and inspired. I'm eager to build relationships with the people we met and I'm looking forward to incorporating what we learned into our processes.
Thank you for hosting us Leshow! We look forward to our next visit.
We were fortunate enough to spend the last week of 2019 in the bustling city of Jaipur. The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing (AMPH). Nestled in the lively and narrow lanes of Amber, it is a must visit for lovers of textiles, fashion and art.
The museum is housed in a stunning 16th century haveli that was revived over a period of 3 years from 1989. The owners worked closely with architects and artisans who carefully restored the building from its dilapidated state. They used homegrown, traditional techniques with magnificent results earning them a UNESCO ‘Cultural Heritage Conservation’ award in the year 2000. The museum is also closed during the peak of summer for yearly upkeep and maintenance which explains why the haveli still looks truly marvellous even a decade after they first opened their doors!
AMPH works toward reviving the traditional and ancient art of hand block printing using carved wooden blocks. The museum is divided into galleries that seamlessly flow from one room to the next showcasing different textiles used in printing as well as an in-depth study of the dyes, tools and processes that were used to create these stunning works. It covers various printing compositions, motifs and colours unique to different styles like Jajam, Bagh, Ajrakh and Sanganer with swatches and garments unique to each of them.
My favourite exhibit was the step by step display of the process of resist printing, dyeing, washing and block printing that was meticulously documented and showcased. Another standout was the mini gallery that shone light on hand printing with precious metals like gold and silver.
On the upper level of the haveli, there is a Demonstration Area where you can observe expert artisans hone their craft and explain their processes. We were thrilled to try out block printing ourselves, guided by one of the artisans, Salim bhai. A native of Farrukhabad a town in UP celebrated for its printing and carving techniques, he grew up immersed in the art form and has been in the industry for over 40 years. He was patient and spoke lovingly of the craft and skill behind traditional Indian art forms and was proud of his work in the field. We even got to take home a block print sample.
It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience!
AMPH holds workshops year round and also supports block printing research, documentation and artisan outreach in the form of publications and research programmes. To learn more you can visit their website:
]]>We are so much more than what we are told.
We are the confident quiet hiding inside trembling bones.The still water beyond the crashing waves.
We are invisible, infinite depth. We are peace. We are magic.
It follows us, a shadow always only a few steps behind.It catches up. Floods our lungs. Holds us down.Until we learn to tear it away. To see what waits behind it.
But we are taught to see weakness in anything that does not shout its own existence.We learn hatred, to despise what is different.We sand ourselves down to what fits the mould.
Now, we find it within us
Petal softness that belies immense strength.
It will not close into a fist. It will not push at its own truth.
It is the light. The magic.
We are learning, now, to embrace it.
Duality is a hand-embroidered unisex suede jacket inspired by androgyny. The jacket is a symbol of honest self expression. It explores the space between the "masculine" and the "feminine", where identity functions without absolutes. It aims to empower individuals to break free of stereotypes and find comfort in their own skin.
Now available in store.
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With my rucksack filled to capacity, I knew I had to travel light and smart, carry pieces that I could mix and match and make maximum use of during my trip. That's where the Swing vest came in- Light, comfortable, trendy and fun, it was the absolute best choice for my vacation.
Tailored beautifully, this jacket was the right balance of style and comfort in the sub-tropical summer heat of Thailand. Its open front and unlined sleeveless design kept the air coming in. Wearing it was an absolute breeze!
It's versatility made it so easy to style multiple outfits. I wore it with dresses, while I walked my feet sore around marketplaces, and shrugged it off my bikini for a cool dip in the lagoon. Layering it over my turquoise jumpsuit carried me from a day of relaxing to a romantic dinner by the waves. And of course it kept me looking fly over a comfy casual outfit while I skipped into trains and nodded off in buses.
It gave my laid-back looks a feminine flirty touch. The cute fringe at the bottom painted the most romantic picture as I stood at the nose of my windy speed boat in Krabi, and hurried up the stairs of the train station in Bangkok. It truly helped make my trip just a little more special! Thank you Indie Culture!
(Photographs by Rahul Ramesh)
]]>A fashion designer from NIFT, Chennai, Vishnu's inimitable style is defined by his understanding of the ebbs and flows of clothing and his ability to capture texture with a few precise brush strokes.
While brainstorming ideas for a collaboration together, we decided to do a set of frameable prints, that were inspired by, and for the IC woman. Vishnu chose 3 of his favourite pieces from our collection and came up with trendy styling options for the pieces. He paired the jackets with beautifully detailed, delicate pieces that complimented the rich bold textures of leather perfectly. He also keep the pieces monochromatic, two with an intricate pattern detail, to really offset the tan, blue and black of the IC garments.
Taking cues from the Pantone colour of of the year 2017, 15-0343 Greenery, we drew inspiration from it's tones of energy, vitality and vibrancy. By juxtaposing the freshness of greenery with the earthiness of leather, we were able to create a collection of prints that were fresh and modern that could be framed or simply displayed in any home or office.
And these were the results! Madrid, Cooper and The Suede Bomber.
One of these three stunning prints will be included in all orders of apparel from www.indieculture.in, from the 1st of January until the 31st of March. A perfect way to transition from winter to spring!
Make sure to include a note at checkout during your purchase, if you have a preference- we just can't seem to be able to pick a favourite!
]]>Back in August, our favourite Bangalore based stylists showed us their unique take on our dark navy suede bomber and came up with 4 stunning looks!
Embodying class and functionality, the IC Suede bomber effortlessly combines the best of sport and luxury clothing.
In this article, we will showcase the stylists' individual looks and get to know their sense of style a little better.
The first look is by Aneela Krishnan, a fashion designer at Max (Landmark group). Having done knitwear design at Nift and worked in the fashion industry in India, she is a natural at designing and putting together elements that flatter and compliment the wearer.
By combining wardrobe staples with a few eclectic pieces, Aneela creates striking looks that always catch the eye. This casual chic look featuring our dark navy suede bomber looks simply effortless! Paired with a corduroy button down skirt, white crop top, and minimal jewellery, Aneela has chosen our light-weight suede bomber to be the statement piece in her ensemble. By layering it with a patterned flannel shirt, she gives the look a fun, flirty vibe- perfect for a girls' day out!
"This one is for them lazy girls!"
Aarya Mathai, a senior stylist at Myntra believes that to look good and feel confident, you have to dress for your body type.
When she puts together the latest trends for her clients, she never compromises on their comfort and individuality.
Her personal style statement, reflected in her look with our IC Suede bomber, is a play on layers to create a unique look. The jacket is draped over layers of a classic slip dress worn on a basic white tee, with a lace detail on the dress accenting the luxurious texture of the suede beautifully. Completing the look with minimal jewellery and strappy stilettoes, Aarya has put together the perfect look that will take you straight from a boozy brunch to a fun night out.
Just touch up your lipstick, and you're good to go! .
Our next look is from the lovely Swati Shandilya.
Swati, a stylist at Chumbak, loves experimenting with blocks of colours when it comes to her personal style.
When it comes to styling her clients, she is an ardent believer in the philosophy that 'Simplicity never fails to impress'. Showcasing two looks with our Suede bomber, her style speaks for itself!
Swati's kept the pieces super simple. The jacket worn with a pair of fitted high waisted jeans, a deep neck crop top, and block heels, creates a relaxed look.
Worn with a choker and an elegant necklace, she let's the jacket pull the outfit together.
This laid-back ensemble is designed to take you out and about during the day and straight to a casual dinner with friends.
Swati's second look is a wonderful take on autumn/winter with our Suede bomber
The jacket worn with a fitted midi skirt and a turtle neck is the ultimate boho winter style statement. Throw in some boots and you've got yourself the ultimate look for those chilly days!
With this comes the end of our wonderful collab with our 3 stylists Aneela, Aarya and Swati, each with their unique, stylish aesthetic.
Follow them on instagram on @aaryaraaya, @neels.krish @swatishandilya to see more of their awesome personal styling! . We can't thank them enough!
Stay tuned for a month full of blogger collaborations and gorgeous looks from pieces in our collection to keep you warm and stylish this winter!
]]>On paper, it would say I've studied fashion at NIFT, Chennai and Istituto Marangoni, Milan, but in reality I have been a student of fashion for the greater part of my life.
My 2-year stint studying and working in Milan was one of the best learning experiences, and during my time there, I loved observing what people wore on the streets (I'm not a creep I promise). I would watch them and try to figure out which pieces I'd like to own myself, how I would style it differently and what pieces I could adapt into my wardrobe. One of the first things that struck me, was how well the Milanese layered their outfits - turning simple pieces up a notch with the use of exquisite layers and outerwear - yes, even in summer.
This made me reflect on the limited selection of fashionable outerwear in India. Having grown up in a family that has spent over 30 years in the leather industry, my appreciation for the material grew as I spent more time working with outerwear brands in Italy, and I spent my time delving into researching the available techniques of using leather.
Fortunately for me, my family was already running a leather tannery and factory that were founded on holistic, eco-friendly principles. I came home to Chennai, and threw myself into building the outerwear brand that I believe India needs.
The result? Indie Culture - a leather-focussed fashion brand that uses the material in new and interesting ways, while keeping quality, affordability, and style at the top of the priority list.
I took the site live today, my heart in my throat, because, even with all the planning and conceptualising, who am I kidding? I'm just starting out! But if there's one thing I am sure of, it's my designs. Every single garment in my collection is something that I would personally love to wear and gift to my friends and family.
I hope you think so, too.
For more, follow the Indie Culture journey on Facebook and Instagram!
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