A Dialogue Between Two Indias

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, Kartik Research emerges as a distinctive voice, one that speaks to the complexities of modern India while honouring its rich past. Founded in 2021 by Kartik Kumra, this New Delhi-based artisanal fashion brand is more than just a label—it’s cultural commentary using the medium of clothes, weaving together the threads of a fractured identity into a cohesive, and of course beautiful, narrative.

Kartik Research’s latest collection, debuting at Paris Fashion Week back in January for the Autumn/Winter 2024 season, exemplifies this vision. At the heart of Kumra's work is a meditation on the dualities of India: the nostalgic allure of a bygone era and the optimism of a future yet to be fully realised. This season, the collection was shot at a sandstone mine in Jodhpur, a locale that Kumra describes as “stuck in a different era,” embodying the tension between past and present that the brand seeks to explore.

The AW24 collection features a highly anticipated collaboration with British brand, Baracuta. Kumra reimagines the classic G9 Harrington jacket, incorporating quilted fabrics and handloomed checks that speak to India’s artisanal heritage. This meticulous craftsmanship is a hallmark of Kartik Research, where every piece undergoes some form of hand processing, celebrating the expertise of over 150 artisans from across India.

Sustainability remains a cornerstone of the brand’s philosophy. Over half of the dyes used in the collection are natural, and a significant portion of the garments are upcycled from vintage textiles. The knitwear, crafted by a community of women in Uttarakhand, exemplifies the brand’s commitment to supporting local craftsmanship and reducing environmental impact.

Kartik Research is not just about fashion; it’s about fostering a dialogue between the old and the new, the local and the global. We love the collection images so much - shot by photographer Aaryan Sinha - that we wanted to share them here. Because in a world that often pushes for homogenisation, Kumra’s work stands as a testament to the power of embracing one’s roots while looking forward, creating garments that are as meaningful as they are beautiful.