Want to bring Indian crafts to your wardrobe? Here's how you can ace the craftcore aesthetic

You can complain about social media forcing the ubiquitous beige aesthetic down everyonersquos throat until yoursquore hoarse but therersquos no denying that viral trends have been instrumental in sparking interest among younger generations about Indiarsquos rich legacy of craftsmanship As proof we offer you the latest trend thatrsquos being adopted with gusto by GenZ mdash craftcoreKalki Koechlin sports a printed jacketAnd no wersquore not referring to your grandmarsquos doilies being repurposed as napkins or kerchiefs but rather a more fascinating fusion of heritage Indian crafts and textiles with contemporary silhouettes ldquoCraftcore is a contemporary fashion aesthetic that celebrates both heritage and innovationrdquo explains fashion designer Sanjana Bubber In that the trend focuses on highlighting the beauty of Indian textiles and techniques while elevating everyday garments into artistic statements she addsMaximal minimal and everything in betweenA block printed shirt paired with blue trousersldquoSome of the crafts wersquore seeing on contemporary clothing include khadi chikankari indigo dying daboo kalamkari Banarasi ikkat bagh kantha Chanderi bandhani and phulkari For wearers it represents a fresh perspective of how fashion can celebrate Indian culture sustainability and individualityrdquo says Bubber For a more statement look she suggests incorporating crafts into major silhouettes such as shirts pants trousers blouses and dressesKarisma Kapoor wears a blazer with a dress to complete the lookgtgt A khadi indigodyed or ajrakhprinted shirt for example can be dressed down with distressed jeans loose chinos or even simple khadi pants for a balanced look If yoursquore keen to make a bold fashion statement you can experiment with contrasting patterns or prints in the form of ikkat trousers or a pair made of Chanderi linen For visual balance add solid black or white tee or a white buttondown shirtVijay Varma in maroon high waist handembroidered trousersgtgt A kalamkari or chikankari blouse or a bandhani top in vibrant colours can be paired with tailored trousers or a flared skirt For an edgier ensemble wear a fitted short skirt or ripped denim jeansgtgt When it comes to dresses a patola silk dress is perfect for formal events while chikankari embroidered shift dresses exude a delicate air of refinement Ikkat prints work well in both maxi and shift styles and you can experiment with bold patterns Indian textiles are a bold statement in themselves which makes it easier to style these pieces They also work well with relaxed silhouettesSanjana Bubbergtgt For menswear a khadi kurta in a lean cut can easily replace a shirt when paired with distressed jeans or chinosgtgt You could also wear your pick of Indian textiles in blazers and bomber jackets For instance a phulkari blazer with distressed jeans and tee or an ikkat bomber jacket with tee and formal wellfitted trousers will instantly ensure that your look stands outgtgt Craftcore can also be minimal and chic with subtle craft elements added as accents to your overall outfit A handembroidered chikankari cuff or block printed lining in a tailored blazer can add visual interest without overwhelming your look You could also keep it simple with khadi basics and naturaldyed products that celebrate Indian hand craftsmanship Bubber notes that such accents can add a touch of luxury to your lookFashion researcher Arti Sandhu in a bandhani tiedye indigo outfit right Pair your craftcore overshirts with solid tees or printed trousersgtgt Another easy way to add crafty elements to your existing wardrobe is to add artsy accessories Handcrafted sandals made of block printed fabric sneakers made of naturallydyed fabric or a tote bag featuring ajrakh or ikkat prints can add visual depth to a modern look as can statement jewellery Handembroidered jewellery is having a fashion moment on social media and can infuse your lookwith femininity