Karu Research Shines a Light on Indian Artisanal Communities for FW22
Inspired by traditional Indian wedding garments.
Founded by Kartik Kumra in 2021, New Delhi-based label Karu Research presents its Fall/Winter 2022 collection derived from the concept of traditional Indian wedding attire.
Commonly shortened to Karu, the brand is grounded in artisanal beliefs and holds an extensive network of craftsmen across India. Shining a light on the people that make traditional, one-of-a-kind Indian dress, Karu constantly maintains local handcrafted practices at the fore.
For his latest collection, Kumra took inspiration from his relative’s marriage ceremony and wished to explore traditional wedding embellishments through an artisanal eye.
Fabric overshirts and hoodies don multi-colored constructions alongside banana fiber crochet pockets created by basket weavers in Karnataka, paired with woven bottoms stamped with traditional patterns. Collaborating with an Ajrakh block printer based in the country’s Gujarat region, the manufacturer dipped silk button-ups in natural dyes to create floral and linear designs with a unique finish.
Crotchet suits are matched with locally-produced patterned tops, while handcrafted jackets are fashioned with further customary embellishments. Patchwork pullovers see ribber perimeters in diverse red, orange, and navy hues alongside cardigans that boast blended detailing.
Take a closer look at Karu Research’s FW22 collection in the gallery above and learn more on the brand here.
Elsewhere, Louis Vuitton gears up for the slopes with a ski-ready 2022 collection.
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