October 2019 Edition Apparel October 2019 issue | Page 57

FEATURE
impossible to have clarity on the entire chain
of production. In this case, it is best to work
with companies that are Global Organic Textile
Standard (GOTS)-certified, and there are quite
some of these in India.” The transition period
for a conventional field to be transformed into
an organic one deters farmers from becoming
organic in practice. Padma Kapoor, Director, Link
Clothing India Pvt. Ltd, says, “Organic seeds are
not available easily, which plays into the difficulty
in its distribution. There is limited supply of this
variety as not many farmers undertake organic
methods to grow cotton. Consumer awareness
regarding organic clothing, too, is not yet
widespread, which results in poor sales.”
CONTEMPORARY CUES
Recycling and upcycling are two of the biggest
practices in sustainable fashion. There is also
a rise in brands trying and experimenting with
newer organic fabrics such as those made from
eucalyptus trees. Similarly, banana fibres are a
great vegan alternative to silk because of their
inherent shine, while pineapple leaves can be
processed and transformed into mesh-like leather.
The consciousness when it comes to organic
fashion has not only challenged stereotypes
but has also paved the way for unconventional
style statements. Kashmira Sudrik, Owner and
Founder of Kashmira’s Boutique, says, “To
pick an example, linen was extensively used in
men’s clothing earlier. It made its debut in the
closets of women in the form of dresses and
today, linen saris are a rage. This is how fabrics
evolve into successful trends. Muslin is another
gentle fabric known for its supple behaviour and
cooling benefits; not to forget khadi, the beloved
fabric of India.” Given the increasing demand for
organic fabrics, brands and designers have been
constantly incorporating them in their collections.
Steven Jhangiani, CEO and Founder, Kurtees,
says, “I think we will begin to see organic fabrics
being used more in daily-wear garments. They
are now becoming more visible to eye of both
established luxury as well as smaller indie labels.
I think we will see many more brands making
the switch to organic fashion in the near future. I
believe if you give customers a choice, they will
choose correctly.”
Organic fabrics are gaining a lot of popularity
among the masses due to their many benefits.
Not only clothes made out of organic fabrics suit
the skin and are supremely comfortable but they
also look elegant, with a sophisticated simplicity
to them. In all, organic fashion is here to stay,
factoring in the people, planet, as well as profit.
APPAREL
I
“MUSLIN IS ANOTHER
GENTLE FABRIC KNOWN
FOR ITS SUPPLE
BEHAVIOUR AND
COOLING BENEFITS.”
October 2019
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