August 7 marks National Handloom Day as the celebration of India’s rich textile legacy and the countless weavers who have preserved our culture, one thread at a time. This day is not only about appreciating the beauty of handwoven fabrics, but also about recognizing the handloom sector’s deep roots in India’s socio-economic and cultural fabric.
As conversations around conscious fashion and sustainability gain traction, handloom is seeing a quiet but steady revival. More than just heritage, it is being positioned as a viable, stylish choice for the modern Indian wardrobe. Today’s designers are blending old-world craftsmanship with modern silhouettes, making handloom fabrics more accessible and appealing to younger generations.
Making handloom popular:
The shift in demand for handloom isn’t just about design, but there’s also a growing emphasis on storytelling. According to Neha Verma, founder of the label Aabharnam, designers help by using handloom fabrics in modern and trendy ways. She says, “Indian designers work with weavers to create new designs that appeal to today’s customers while keeping traditional skills alive. By showcasing handlooms in fashion shows and stores, they bring attention and value to these crafts. Nowadays people are more inclined towards sustainability, Consumers support handloom by choosing to buy handloom products instead of machine-made fast fashion. When people understand the story, effort, and skill behind each handmade piece, they are more likely to value and preserve it. Their choices can help keep weavers in work and traditional crafts alive for the future.”
When consumers understand the craftsmanship and cultural history behind a handwoven sari or kurta, they’re more likely to see it as more than just clothing. Their choices can help keep weavers in work and traditional crafts alive for the future.
Challenges ahead:
Handloom, by its very nature, is eco-friendly and ethical; but while awareness is growing, there are challenges. It uses little to no electricity, relies on natural yarns and dyes, and offers a livelihood to local artisans by making it a thoughtful alternative to mass-produced fashion. These factors also make handlooms gentle on the skin and far more breathable in India’s climate, ticking all the boxes for conscious clothing.
Despite the visibility that handlooms enjoy today on ramps, in fashion boutiques, and via social media, the daily wearers are still few and far between. Neha explains, “There’s no doubt people are aware about sustainability. However, even today, we notice that many people across age groups, the younger generation, those in their 40s and 50s, or even the 60s, still gravitate towards modern clothing. This is especially evident in the South, which continues to surprise us. It’s a reminder that, despite the growing consciousness, there’s a gradual shift away from our cultural roots, particularly when it comes to wearing saris. This is a wake-up call: we must acknowledge that our traditions and cultural identity are slowly fading, and we need to reflect deeply on how to preserve and revive them.”
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