Handcrafted quality. Recycled materials. Bright colours and bold patterns. Every kantha jacket has a distinctive look, instantly catching the eye.
Purchasing a jacket from Indigowares means more than adding a stylish layer to your wardrobe. It represents history, craftsmanship, and sustainability. Each piece is truly one of a kind, stitched from vintage textiles with a rich cultural background.
Kantha embroidery originates from India and Bangladesh, with its name translating to “rags” in Sanskrit. Further more this meaning reflects its origins, where worn-out saris were repurposed by layering and securing them with fine running stitches, known as the kantha stitch.
For over 500 years, artisans have transformed discarded textiles into functional and decorative items. Initially, families created kantha blankets and quilts to provide warmth. Today, the same technique is used to craft kantha jackets, making them lightweight yet cosy.
Hand-stitched with care, kantha embroidery tells a story. Traditionally, women sewed patterns by hand, incorporating cultural motifs or personal expressions. Some pieces showcase simple running stitches, while others feature elaborate floral or geometric designs.
Beyond its visual appeal, the kantha stitch serves a practical purpose. The fine rows of stitching hold the fabric layers together, creating a unique quilted texture. In many cases, the back of the fabric features shorter stitches, while the front highlights intricate patterns. Depending on the stitch density, the fabric may feel stiff or remain soft and flexible. Either way, every kantha jacket carries a distinct character shaped by its maker.
Sustainability remains central to kantha textiles. Instead of mass-producing fabrics, this craft embraces slow fashion by reusing and repurposing materials. Historically, even the embroidery threads were salvaged from older textiles, ensuring minimal waste.
Embedded in each kantha jacket is a connection to the past. In Bengal, families pass down kantha quilts through generations, turning fabric into a tangible link between ancestors and descendants. Choosing kantha means honouring a tradition rooted in resourcefulness, storytelling, and sustainability.
✔ Sustainable Fashion – Upcycled from vintage saris, reducing textile waste.
✔ Handcrafted Tradition – Created by skilled artisans preserving time-honoured techniques.
✔ Ethical Practices – Ensuring fair wages and sustainable livelihoods for artisans.
✔ A Unique Piece – No two kantha jackets are identical, making each one a wearable work of art.
Versatility sets a kantha jacket apart. The breathable cotton makes it ideal for layering in warmer months, while the quilted texture provides warmth on cooler days. Whether worn over a simple dress, paired with jeans and a T-shirt, or styled as a bold statement piece, it fits effortlessly into any wardrobe.
Due to its recycled origins, every kantha jacket boasts a vibrant mix of colours and patterns. Some feature delicate floral prints, while others showcase geometric or abstract designs. As well as that the unexpected combinations give each piece a one-of-a-kind artistic appeal.
Beyond aesthetics, kantha fabrics embody mindful craftsmanship and sustainable values. Unlike fast fashion, which prioritises mass production, this traditional craft values patience, skill, and creativity. Each stitch represents a deliberate step toward ethical fashion.
Every jacket in the Indigowares collection is carefully handcrafted, ensuring no two are the same. Owning one means embracing individuality, supporting artisans, and choosing a sustainable approach to fashion.
Proper care extends the life of a kantha jacket, allowing it to remain a staple for years. Follow these simple guidelines to maintain its beauty:
Wearing kantha means carrying a legacy of craftsmanship and tradition. Every stitch connects the past with the present, giving new life to fabric once destined for waste. Whether worn casually or as a statement piece, it proves that fashion can be both beautiful and meaningful.
Purchasing a kantha jacket does more than add to a wardrobe. It supports artisans who rely on this craft for their livelihoods. Every sale ensures fair wages and helps keep this centuries-old tradition alive.
In contrast to fast fashion’s fleeting trends, kantha embodies craftsmanship, individuality, and cultural heritage. Choosing one is a conscious step toward ethical shopping and a celebration of artisanal skills.
Beyond its sustainability, the beauty of a kantha jacket lies in its versatility. Here are some effortless styling ideas:
✔ Casual Everyday Look – Layer over a plain T-shirt and jeans for a relaxed yet stylish outfit.
✔ Boho Chic – Pair with a flowing maxi dress, ankle boots, and layered jewellery.
✔ Smart-Casual – Wear over a crisp blouse and tailored trousers for a polished yet unique look.
✔ Cold Weather Layering – Add a chunky knit sweater underneath for extra warmth in winter.
Regardless of the season or occasion, a kantha jacket enhances any outfit with its character and craftsmanship.
At Indigowares, each kantha jacket is handcrafted and entirely unique. New patterns and colourways arrive frequently, offering fresh selections for those seeking truly special pieces.
Explore our collection today and experience the beauty of a kantha jacket – a perfect blend of history, tradition, and sustainable fashion.
