The conversation around sustainability has become increasingly significant in the fashion industry, and India is no exception. As consumers become more aware of the environmental and social impact of their clothing choices, there has been a growing demand for sustainable fashion. This shift is not limited to Western wear; ethnic wear for men is also seeing a surge in brands committed to eco-friendly practices.
From using organic materials to ensuring fair trade practices, these brands are making it easier for men to look stylish while being environmentally conscious. Here’s a closer look at some of the top sustainable ethnic wear brands for men in India.
1. Fabindia
When discussing sustainable fashion in India, Fabindia is a name that invariably comes up. Founded in 1960, Fabindia has long been a pioneer in promoting handcrafted products made by artisans across rural India. Their focus on sustainability is evident in their use of natural fibers, handwoven fabrics, and traditional dyeing techniques.
Sustainable Practices: Fabindia sources its products from over 55,000 artisans and craftspersons, supporting rural livelihoods while preserving traditional crafts. The brand emphasizes the use of organic cotton, handloom fabrics, and natural dyes, reducing the environmental impact of their production process.
Product Range: For men, Fabindia offers a wide range of ethnic wear, including kurtas, bandhgalas, jackets, and churidars. Their designs are classic yet contemporary, making them suitable for both festive occasions and casual wear.
2. Nicobar
Nicobar, a modern lifestyle brand, is the brainchild of Good Earth founders Simran Lal and Raul Rai. Launched in 2016, Nicobar focuses on creating sustainable clothing that reflects a contemporary Indian aesthetic. The brand’s commitment to sustainability is deeply embedded in its production processes and materials.
Sustainable Practices: Nicobar uses natural and organic materials like cotton, linen, and bamboo in their collections. The brand is also committed to reducing waste, with initiatives like upcycling fabric scraps into accessories and minimizing plastic in their packaging.
Product Range: Nicobar’s men’s collection includes stylish kurtas, shirts, jackets, and Nehru jackets that blend traditional Indian silhouettes with modern designs. Their minimalist aesthetic and sustainable ethos make them a popular choice for conscious consumers.
3. Bhane
Bhane is a contemporary Indian fashion brand that has garnered attention for its focus on sustainability and ethical practices. Founded by Anand Ahuja, Bhane emphasizes transparency in its supply chain, ensuring that every step of the production process adheres to ethical standards.
Sustainable Practices: Bhane prioritizes the use of eco-friendly materials, such as organic cotton and recycled fabrics. The brand is also committed to fair trade practices, ensuring that workers receive fair wages and work in safe conditions.
Product Range: Bhane offers a range of ethnic wear for men, including kurtas, churidars, and jackets. Their designs are modern and versatile, making them suitable for both traditional and contemporary settings.
4. No Nasties
No Nasties is a 100% organic and fair trade fashion brand that has made significant strides in promoting sustainability in India. Founded in 2011 by Apurva Kothari, No Nasties focuses on creating clothing that is kind to both people and the planet.
Sustainable Practices: The brand uses only certified organic cotton, which is grown without harmful pesticides and fertilizers. No Nasties also adheres to fair trade practices, ensuring that farmers and workers are paid fairly and work in safe conditions. Additionally, the brand is carbon-neutral, offsetting all of its carbon emissions through reforestation projects.
Product Range: No Nasties offers a range of men’s clothing, including shirts, t-shirts, and kurtas, all made from organic cotton. Their designs are simple yet stylish, making them a great choice for those looking for comfortable and eco-friendly ethnic wear.
5. Upasana
Upasana, based in Auroville, Tamil Nadu, is a fashion brand that goes beyond sustainability to embrace social responsibility and community development. Founded by Uma Prajapati, Upasana’s mission is to create clothing that is not only environmentally sustainable but also supports rural communities and traditional artisans.
Sustainable Practices: Upasana works closely with farmers and weavers to promote organic farming and traditional textile crafts. The brand uses natural dyes, organic cotton, and handwoven fabrics, ensuring that their products have a minimal environmental footprint.
Upasana also runs several social initiatives, such as the Varanasi Weavers project, which aims to revive the handloom industry in Varanasi.
Product Range: Upasana offers a unique range of ethnic wear for men, including kurtas, dhotis, and scarves. Their designs are deeply rooted in Indian tradition, yet they incorporate modern elements that make them appealing to contemporary consumers.
6. Mati
Mati is a luxury organic cotton brand that emphasizes sustainability, transparency, and social responsibility. Mati aims to create “Farm to Fashion” products that celebrate the journey from cotton farms to the finished garment.
Sustainable Practices: Mati uses organic cotton sourced from farms, ensuring complete control over the quality and sustainability of their products. The brand employs local artisans to handcraft their garments, preserving traditional skills and providing fair wages to workers. Mati also focuses on creating limited-edition collections, reducing waste and ensuring exclusivity.
Product Range: Mati offers a range of men’s ethnic wear, including kurtas, shirts, and dhotis. Their designs are characterized by intricate handloom weaves and natural dyes, making them both luxurious and sustainable.
As the demand for sustainable fashion continues to grow, more and more Indian brands are stepping up to offer eco-friendly options in the ethnic wear category. Whether it’s through the use of organic materials, fair trade practices, or supporting traditional artisans, these brands are making it easier for men to make conscious fashion choices without compromising on style.
By choosing to support sustainable brands, you’re not only investing in high-quality, timeless pieces but also contributing to a more ethical and environmentally-friendly fashion industry. So the next time you’re shopping for ethnic wear, consider these sustainable brands and make a choice that’s good for both you and the planet.
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