Leh Studios’ contemporary take on traditional textiles is redefining fashion norms
There is something about an understated ensemble that offers a refreshing break from the notion that only bold designs and extravagant styles can make you stand out. A testament to this is Leh Studios - a label that is reimagining age-old textiles through time-honoured techniques and a contemporary spin.
Founded in 2021 by Himi, Leh Studios is a contemporary wear label firmly grounded in tradition; emerging at a time when the country was re-embracing the handmade in India. The label is dedicated to preserving indigenous artisanal practices, evident in their selection of khadi, pure cotton, and more such textiles, that form the core of their collections. However, Leh Studios departs from the typical usage of such fabrics. Through innovative designs applied to them, the label strides ahead -by creating pieces that find a common ground between tradition and the Western influences that have been prevalent in the Indian fashion-scape. Their collection of relaxed dresses, effortless shirts, bottoms, and more embody an unmistakable touch of authenticity.
When it comes to contemporary wear, we seldom imagine restructured elements, but their incorporation into the label’s designs is as effortless as exceptional. Often, a straight shirt placket assumes an unexpected curve towards the hem, and panels and seams defy linear cuts. In their designs, a frequent focus is given to playful details and irregularities, including asymmetric hems, pleats and tucks.
These elements are eventually on the way to becoming a defining aspect of Leh Studios- resonating with the differential aspects that homegrown labels are bringing to the table.
Leh Studios’ sensibilities take cues from early memories of the founder but in a far less conventional manner. These memories relate to experimenting with the emotional value of hand-me-down items, the changes they undergo across generations, and the disciplines he has worked across. It evolves into an approach that examines waste reduction from a fresh perspective. Veering from the usual path of turning textile scrapes into accessories, Leh Studios repurposes them into fresh garments for their upcoming collections. This concept not only allows the label to optimise its raw materials fully but also makes something completely new out of the old.
As they continue to blur the lines between tradition and the contemporary, Leh Studios stands out as one of those labels that have flawlessly mastered the unconventional approach to design. Each garment exhibits a harmonious balance between colours, shapes, and designs despite the irregularities. On that note, Blur The Border eagerly anticipates the label’s upcoming collections, excited to witness how they will continue to redefine fashion's conventional elements.
Discover Leh Studios:
Instagram: @leh.studios
