KHADI: The New Fashion Revolution
Khadi, fabric from the Swadeshi movement has always been thought of as the white, spotless fabric; but it has so much more to its existence. Khadi is a hand woven natural fiber cloth that is mainly made out of cotton fabric and may also include silk or wool. During independence, Khadi fabric became a symbol of self reliance for Indian pride. Khadi brought about an idea that the cotton we grew can be spun and woven to form garments and money should not be wasted on buying exuberantly costly clothes.
However, after Swadeshi movement; Khadi shifted to the back shelves of many fashion emporiums, and front seat was taken by various blend fabrics. Khadi is a very versatile fabric; it has a very unique property of being warm in winters and cool in summers. During the spinning of Khadi, threads are generally interwoven in such a manner that it provides passage of air circulation in the fabric. Initially, Khadi came up as a symbol of self employment. Thus, Khadi was born out of economical need rather than fashion need. Fabric of Indian independence is the current fashion fabric. People are drawn towards the new, but fear to relinquish the old. Keeping the perception of old Khadi, and lying in the dilemma of old and new Khadi, people are unable to easily accept the fabric. Khadi fabric, which was once symbolized as a dull fabric, is currently available in a vibrant and classy color palette.
This glamorous fabric is the choice of several top fashion designers. Khadi is presently known for its beautiful colors and comfort. It is a timeless piece of fashion industry. Khadi’s appeal in the fashion industry has become two-fold. On one hand, brands like Fab India are promoting it among foreigners and on the other, several Indian designers are creating an entire wedding trousseau with embroidered Khadi lehengas. Mainstream fashion industry has accepted Khadi, making it a new fashion trend. Khadi fabric is a comfortable, eco-friendly, elegant, versatile and easily adaptable among the fashion designers.
KHADI FABRIC THEN
Khadi cloth was termed as a sacred cloth that was hand spun and hand woven. Spinning Khadi elevated an ideology of self reliance and self employment. This fabric emerged as a symbol of need and importance of manufactured goods. Khadi India was a moment that was well carried off and is successfully revived among the current generation. Khadi was actually a dull, pristine fabric that became an Indian identity. Difference between Khadi and handloom fabric is that of its texture. During independence, Khadi emerged as a white, pristine fabric, also remembered as the famous Gandhi topi. Due to small weaving errors, the fabric has a particular Khadi charm. It was easy for people to accept Khadi during independence, because the more you wash Khadi fabric, the better it looks and feels; and hence it saved a lot of money. Production of Khadi cloth promoted sustainability and thus, it became a key fabric apart from its fashion factor. Khadi’s Indian quotient promoted patriotism and was hence, the fashion fabric. Khadi is also India’s original textile culture where the yarns and clothes are handmade. The word ‘Khadi’ echoed emotions behind the struggle.
KHADI FABRIC NOW
Khadi fabric, over the decades has evolved to be a fashion garment. While Khadi cloth is a symbol of freedom, it currently represents evolving India, that endures India’s ancient weaves, yet embraces contemporary India to find its relevance. Khadi cloth is stylish, crisp and can be used in any form. Each time Khadi fabric appears, it steals the limelight with its simple look, versatility and freshness. This cloth has now become a canvas for imaginative creations in the fashion industry. It has evolved with time; the vibrant color palette it offers makes it the favorite fabric of the running generation. Khadi fabric has a lot of character and it is an inseparable part of the Indian culture.
Khadi, as a fabric is a balance of tradition and modernity. Today, Khadi fabric isn’t about a coarse cloth in dull shades; it has become a timeless beauty. Many designers have worked on Khadi fabric to enhance its appeal. Khadi products like shawls, scarves, kurtas and trousers, are also sold in the international market. The fabric combines simplicity and style. Also, in this generation where people crave for elegance and comfort; Khadi is the right choice. Khadi print is usually carried out on a dyed fabric. Classic Khadi fabric is woven with thin grey warp and in multicolored wefts that form random streaks in different colors. Khadi cloth is spun in such a way that its rough surface, softens after every wash.
Khadi fabric is not only restricted to clothes; but has also found its space in various crafts, shoes and home décor. The Fashion Design Council of India played a huge role in reviving Khadi fabric and in increasing its demand. Fashion designers have brilliantly merged Khadi fabric with Phulkari, Chikankari and Kalamkari; and still managed to pull off the contemporary line. Khadi has a promising future and a glorious present. The Design Cart helps you incorporate Khadi cloth in your personal style by reviving the craft; offering the fabric at your doorstep in wholesale prices.
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