Kartik Research FW26 Champions Indian Craft Amid Economic Volatility
Titled “Raag,” the collection reinforces the value of manual artistry as a defense against rising global trade tariffs.
Summary
- Kartik Research debuted its “Raag” collection in Paris, drawing inspiration from 1970s Indian archival textiles
- The show utilized intricate hand-embroidery to champion craftsmanship against rising trade tariffs
- High-profile supporters include New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani
At just 25, Kartik Kumra has solidified his status as a pivotal voice in menswear, returning to Paris Fashion Week with the Kartik Research Fall/Winter 2026 collection, titled “Raag.” This showing follows a major cultural milestone for the label as New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently donned the brand’s eri silk tie for his inauguration. For Kumra, seeing his work resonate with progressive leadership serves as a symbol of hope amid a shifting global landscape.
The collection’s title pays homage to a 1970s artisanal label from Ahmedabad that once captivated artist Robert Rauschenberg. After gaining rare access to their archives, Kumra revived that vintage magnetism through a lens of contemporary “soft power.” The runway featured a sophisticated blend of heritage and street-ready silhouettes, including stone-gray kantha tuxedo jackets, barn coats adorned with glittering floral vines and oversized pistachio linen suits.
Beyond the aesthetics, the show addressed the 50% U.S. tariff recently levied on Indian exports. With the livelihoods of 300 traditional craftspeople at stake, Kumra used the runway to reinforce the value of manual artistry. From gold-sequined petals on tailored trousers to indigo-dyed patchwork denim, the garments served as a defiant argument for the preservation of Indian craftsmanship. By transforming centuries-old techniques into relevant global fashion, Kumra proves that intricate, human-led detail remains a formidable tool against economic volatility.
