KARIGAR - Shapeshifting Fashion: Our New Autumn Winter Collection 2017
At Jewelled Buddha we always endeavour to bring you beautiful, quality accessories with a story. Fashion that is sophisticated, ethical, stylish and adheres to our beliefs. So, I am super-excited to introduce you to our latest shapeshifting Autumn/Winter 2017 collection, from the brand - KARIGAR.
Based in Amsterdam, KARIGAR is a sustainable fashion brand that works with rural artisans in India to co-create handmade textiles. Combining ancient crafting techniques with modern, innovative Dutch design, KARIGAR offers a range of scarves, shawls and capes for the conscious consumer looking for sophisticated artisan accessories to compliment their wardrobe.
KARIGAR which means ‘artisan’ in Hindi, is a celebration of the skill of rural artisans and their knowledge of traditional craft techniques. This enables them to make beautiful, unique products for a global market, whilst also empowering them to earn a sustainable source of income.
Collection - Capes
Featuring innovative Dutch design with free-size armholes, this 100% Merino wool cape is truly versatile and can be worn in 17 different ways! Whether you wear it short, long, wrapped or belted, this cape is going to effortlessly transform your look from day to night, through all the seasons and beyond!
Karigar Cape - Red/Blue
Karigar Cape - Blue
Collection -Scarves/Shawls
A sophisticated pallet of colours makes this range of scarves and shawls adaptable for both men and women. Made from 100% Merino wool that's beautifully soft and luxurious, you can update a simple combination of jeans, a top and blazer easily.
Karigar Scarf - Green
Karigar Shawl - Green
The Artisans Behind the Brand
Parwa - Weaving textiles
Surma and Sangita - spinners
KARIGAR works with rural artisans across India and in the Indian Himalayas.
It takes 14 skilled artisans to make just one scarf, shawl or cape. From Surma who collects the yarn to Pushpa, Parwa and Sadhana who weave under the supervision of master weavers Tajwar and Ansari. The journey of each product is both beautiful as it is complex.
By creating sustainable products that positively impact artisans, the environment and consumers, Karigar is a great alternative to fast fashion. What I think is unique about our KARIGAR range is that you can directly access video's, photographs and names of the people who helped design and create each product. How? Through their hangtag or "Talking Tag"! Each Talking Tag has a unique QR code which when scanned using your smartphone, tells you how your scarf, shawl or cape was crafted. You can then share this information on social media (don't forget the #jewelledbuddha) or even post comments or messages for the artisans. It's an ingenious way of discovering how and who made your clothes.
We hope you love our new collection. Let us know what you what think and if you have any questions!