The ABCs of Indian textiles- Handloom fabrics

As trend would have it, Indian handloom textiles are sweeping the fashion scenario in the country. No matter what you design and how you do it, the basis of any garment is its fabric. And to choose your preferred fabric, you need to know and recognize them. Fabrics can either be hand woven in looms which we largely call ‘Handloom textiles’ and ’Jacquard textiles’, woven in machines or electronic looms. Handlooms textiles are the most sought after, traditional, made of natural fibers and hence valuable.

Handloom fabrics of India

Cotton- This is widely available and the most versatile fabric. Cotton one of the staple fabrics of India and is available in a variety of weaves, which makes all the difference to a basic cotton cloth. Because of its lightweight and easy adaptability, cotton fabrics are used abundantly by designers.

Silk- Naturally grown and cultivated, silk is one of the most traditional textiles and synonymous to Indian heritage. It is known for its luster, elegance and affluence attached to it. Contrary to the general notion, silk is a tough fabric of high grade and adds richness to any garment.

Linen- Known as the ‘King of Fabrics’, Linen is widely used for apparels, mostly western wear and formal clothing. Made from the fibers of ‘flax plant’, Linen is not only easy to maintain, but equally elegant in look and feel.

Wool- One of the most versatile natural textiles, wool can be woven, knitted, processed, and blended and so on, to craft garments of all sorts. They are soft yet durable, tough yet classy and is used widely in apparel and accessories.

Jute & Hemp- India is the second largest producer of Jute and one of the staple fibers of the country. Though traditionally not used for garments, strong inclination to natural fabrics have led designers to integrate jute, hemp and jute blends in garment construction and give it a contemporary feel.