The House of Wandering Silk is a fashion brand that was founded in 2012 by Katherine Neumann and her partner, Akhilesh Prasad. The brand is based in New Delhi, India, and is known for its sustainable and ethical fashion practices.
The idea for the House of Wandering Silk came from Katherine Neumann’s travels through Asia and her encounters with artisans and craftspeople who were struggling to make a living. She wanted to create a brand that would help support these artisans by providing them with a market for their products.
The House of Wandering Silk Supports Women in India and Sustainable Fashion
The brand began by selling scarves made from vintage saris that were sourced from markets across India. The scarves were then reworked and repurposed by local artisans, giving new life to old fabrics. The brand’s signature style combines traditional Indian textiles and techniques with contemporary designs, creating a unique fusion of old and new.
Over the years, the House of Wandering Silk has expanded its product line to include clothing, accessories, and home decor items. The brand has also continued to focus on sustainable and ethical practices, using natural and organic materials whenever possible and working directly with artisans to ensure fair wages and working conditions.
Today, the House of Wandering Silk is recognized as a leader in sustainable and ethical fashion, and its products are sold around the world. The brand has also been recognized for its social impact, including its work to support women artisans and its commitment to reducing waste and promoting environmental sustainability.
Women Weavers in India
India has a rich history of women weavers, dating back centuries. Weaving has traditionally been a skill passed down from mother to daughter, and many women in India have honed their weaving skills over generations.
Women weavers in India have played a crucial role in preserving and advancing traditional weaving techniques. They have also contributed to the country’s textile industry by producing some of the finest fabrics in the world.
A Brief History of the Banarasi Saree
One of the most well-known weaving traditions in India is that of the Banarasi saree, which is made in the city of Varanasi in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. The Banarasi saree is known for its intricate designs and use of fine silk and gold and silver threads. Women weavers in Varanasi have been producing Banarasi sarees for generations, and their skills have been passed down from mother to daughter.
In addition to the Banarasi saree, there are many other weaving traditions in India that are kept alive by women weavers. For example, the handloom weaving tradition in the southern state of Tamil Nadu is largely carried out by women, who produce high-quality cotton fabrics that are used in clothing, bedding, and other household items.
Supporting Women Weavers in India through Shopping Sustainable Fashion
Women weavers in India have faced many challenges over the years, including the decline of the handloom industry and competition from cheaper machine-made fabrics. However, many organizations are working to support and empower women weavers, by providing training, resources, and market access. With their skill and dedication, women weavers in India continue to be an important part of the country’s rich textile heritage.
