Handcrafted quality. Recycled materials. Bright colours and bold patterns. A kantha jacket has a look like no other, making it an instant eye-catcher.
When you buy a kantha jacket from Indigowares, you’re not just getting a stylish, comfortable layer—you’re choosing a piece of history. Each jacket is one of a kind, stitched from vintage textiles with a story to tell.
Kantha is a traditional embroidery technique from India and Bangladesh. The word “kantha” means “rags” in Sanskrit, which reflects its origins. For centuries, artisans have repurposed old saris by layering and hand-stitching them together using a simple running stitch—known as the kantha stitch.
This technique dates back over 500 years. Families would upcycle fabric scraps into blankets, bedspreads, and cushions for warmth. This same layered softness is what makes a kantha jacket so comfortable to wear.
Kantha stitching is simple yet deeply expressive. Traditionally, women would sew the stitches by hand, creating patterns that tell personal or cultural stories. Some designs are minimal, with neat rows of running stitches, while others form intricate floral and geometric motifs.
If you look closely at a kantha jacket, you’ll see the fine rows of stitching that hold the layers together. This gives the fabric a slightly crinkled, quilted texture, adding to its charm. The back of the fabric usually has shorter stitches, while the front displays the full design. The closer the stitches, the stiffer the fabric, making each piece unique in its structure and feel.
Sustainability has always been at the heart of kantha. Traditionally, even the embroidery thread was salvaged from old materials. Today, this method continues to support slow fashion by reducing waste and breathing new life into well-loved textiles.
Every kantha carries a rich past. In Bengal, kantha quilts are often made as family heirlooms, passed down through generations. The craft celebrates resourcefulness and meaningful storytelling through fabric.
By choosing a kantha jacket, you are supporting:
✔ Sustainable Fashion – Made from upcycled saris, reducing textile waste.
✔ Handcrafted Tradition – Each jacket is sewn by skilled artisans using time-honoured techniques.
✔ Ethical Practices – Fair wages and sustainable production support artisan communities.
✔ A Unique Piece – No two kantha jackets are ever the same, making yours a true one-of-a-kind.
One of the best things about a kantha jacket is its versatility. The lightweight, breathable cotton makes it perfect for layering in spring and summer, while the quilted texture provides just enough warmth for cooler autumn days. You can style it over a simple dress, with jeans and a T-shirt, or even as a statement piece for an evening out.
Because of its recycled origins, a kantha jacket often features a mix of bright colours and bold prints. Some have delicate florals, while others showcase geometric patterns or abstract designs. The beauty lies in the unexpected combinations, making each jacket a work of art.
At Indigowares, we admire kantha jackets not only for their unique beauty but for their values. The art of kantha aligns with our mission—rejecting fast fashion in favour of ethical, sustainable clothing.
Each kantha jacket in our collection is handcrafted, ensuring no two are ever the same. By choosing one, you’re embracing individuality, tradition, and a more mindful way of dressing.
A kantha jacket is made from delicate, vintage cotton, so caring for it properly ensures it lasts for years. Here are some simple tips:
Owning a kantha jacket means carrying a piece of history with you. Each stitch tells a story, and every jacket holds a past life within its fabric. Whether you wear it as a statement piece or a casual everyday layer, it’s a reminder that fashion can be both beautiful and meaningful.
When you invest in a kantha jacket, you’re not only choosing sustainable fashion—you’re also supporting skilled artisans who keep this beautiful craft alive. Each purchase helps sustain fair wages and ethical working conditions for the makers, ensuring this time-honoured tradition continues to thrive.
In a world where fast fashion dominates, a kantha jacket offers a different way to shop. It’s about celebrating craftsmanship, valuing quality over quantity, and honouring the stories woven into each piece.
A kantha jacket is a statement on its own, but it’s also incredibly easy to style. Here are some ideas:
✔ Casual Everyday Look – Layer it over a plain T-shirt and jeans for an effortless yet eye-catching outfit.
✔ Boho Chic – Pair it with a flowing maxi dress, boots, and layered jewellery for a free-spirited vibe.
✔ Smart-Casual – Wear it over a simple blouse and tailored trousers for a relaxed yet polished look.
✔ Cold Weather Layering – Add a chunky knit sweater underneath for extra warmth and texture in winter.
However you choose to wear them, these jackets add character, colour, and craftsmanship to your wardrobe.
At Indigowares, we’re proud to offer a stunning collection of kantha jackets, each one carefully handcrafted and entirely unique. New patterns and colours arrive regularly, so be sure to check back for the latest designs.
Browse our collection today and discover the beauty of a kantha fabrics. True works of art that blend history, tradition, and sustainability.
