One can never have too many cotton outfits in Chennai at this time of the year. Whether you’re planning a tropical getaway, or just a quick staycation down the East Coast Road, take your pick from five different brands that will showcase their summer lines at Amethyst later this week. There’s going to be ajrakh -printed garments and accessories by Vraj Bhoomi, kala cotton kurtas from Organic Hanger, linen dresses by Artisau, Bengali muslin tunics from Shorshe, and Shibori-infused chanderis by Iha. Yes, stock up for the rest of the year.
The Summer Begins curation will be available at The Folly, Amethyst, from March 29 to 31, from 11 am to 7.30 pm. 45991630
Vraj Bhoomi
The concept clothing label based out of Gujarat is created by Bhoomi Dani and Priyam Shah. “Unlike in commercial production, the idea of our outfits doesn’t start at design level — it begins as a shared effort between us and the craftsmen,” says Dani. In their latest line, U P T U R N , they bring a range of Ajrakh printed garments, footwear and accessories. Upwards of ₹3,500.
Organic Hanger
Designers Ankita Patel and Ami Gathani would like to challenge anyone who says stripes and checks don’t go together. Their new brand of sustainable clothing — launched in early February — combines the two patterns with ease, on a base of light and airy home-grown kala cotton from Kutch. The contemporary cuts move easily from day to night. Upwards of ₹6,000.
Artisau
The hazy moon patterns you’ll find scattered on their handcrafted collection of linen dresses and tunics is achieved with a low-pressure block-printing technique. Simran Chaudhry says that this line is an extension of her “journey to build a simple, minimal and elegant aesthetic”, which she achieves with the use of flared and roomy cuts in a palette that ranges from ink blue to white. Upwards of ₹7,200.
Shorshe
Walk on sunshine with the cheery yellows that make their presence felt across Tanushree Basu’s anti-fit palazzos, dress hems and tunic cuffs. The fully sustainable label sources fabric from a cluster of weavers from Nadia district, West Bengal. Look for the minimal kantha detailing that takes the outfits up a notch. Upwards of ₹5,500.
Iha
Soft cotton muslin and chanderi get a makeover, with the use of Japanese dyeing technique, Shibori. Founder Garima Goel is all about the details — you’ll find them hand-stitched on the breezy earth-toned dresses. Upwards of ₹2,800.