#TRENDING: Contemporary Indian Textiles

Above all crafts, India is a mecca for fabric lovers. Thoughtful minimalism, bright hues, and sustainable fabrics are all part of a movement appealing to today’s modern Indian woman.


Contemporary Indian designers are tapping into centuries of inspiration that their country’s social and historical background has to offer. The western state of Gujarat’s major city, Ahmedabad is India’s first UNESCO Urban World Heritage Site, notable for its cutting-edge modern design. This “Manchester of India”, hosts a textile industry dating back to the 19th century. Strategically placed near the Sabarmati river for waterpower, which leads to the Gulf of Khambhat and into the Arabian Sea, makes it perfect for exporting goods.

At the forefront of this trailblazing industry is social and environmental responsibility. Movements such as The GoodWeave Label certify that ethical labour practices are taken seriously. Manufacturers are also finding more ways to efficiently use resources such as water and energy. Speaking of sustainability, I once visited a factory in Rajasthan that turns clothing and fabric waste into paper!


India is known for their celebratory use of colour and pattern, especially in their homes and wardrobes. In the contemporary textile world, you’ll find modern takes on Rajasthani motifs, block printing, patching, classical embroidery, and geometric patterns rooted in poetic Indian tradition.




Contemporary studios are a part of our exploration of Gujarat and Rajasthan this fall. A highlight will be a curator-led visit to Ahmedabad’s renowned Calico Museum of Textiles, once a cloth merchant's mansion, with a significant collection of antique and modern fabrics.


Experience it all with local tour leader Jaya Basera a heritage consultant with an extensive research background with the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage.

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