Rkive City is exploring post-consumer textile waste to create modern versatile clothing
Rkive City pushes the conventional role of a design label and its purpose; positioning itself as a restoration and research centre for post-consumer textile waste. Amidst a raft of alternative fabrics currently at the helm of the fashion industry, the atelier has taken something as ubiquitous as denim -its pre-used form- and elevated it beyond the fabric’s easygoing and casual appeal.
Founded by Ritwik Khanna in 2022, Rkive City views textile waste not as the final outcome but as an opportunity to explore its immense potential - currently romanticising and reimagining aged denim. While the fabric remains a timeless wardrobe staple embraced by individuals of all genders, ages, and cultures, denim also represents one of the materials that poses a substantial environmental threat - forming the core premise of Rkive City. The label reconstructs denim clothing exploring the fabric’s potential beyond traditional silhouettes. They offer statement jackets, tailored blazers, roomy jeans, and even homeware products including patchwork denim cushions.
What distinguishes Rkive City is its approach to cultivating an appreciation for pre-consumed items and transforming our attitudes towards their treatment. Through their designs, the label not only highlights the inherent beauty of aged and oxidized post-consumer denim but also transforms it into coveted wardrobe pieces. This ethos stems from Khanna's personal love for all things archival, and neutral, earthy, and indigo tones. Even their printmaking techniques are inspired by natural patina on paper and other materials. Coupled with the fabric’s own history and memories, these textures add depth and complexity to the Rkive City’s materials. The label’s practices uphold the use of old threads, zippers, and buttons in reconstructive sewing or embroidery techniques for their designs - proffering weight to the meaning of circularity.
With denim as its focal point, Rkive City consistently innovates alongside its peers. Their recent collaboration with Karu Research resulted in patchwork and naturally patinated denim pieces featuring mirror work and zardozi embroidery. Meanwhile, their recent collaboration with PDKF previews a series of hand-block printed reconstructed denim jackets and carpenter jeans with the signature PDKF fabrics. One of the few labels leveraging its influence to educate while championing clothing as a means of expression, Rkive City encourages individuals to value and cherish their garments rather than hoard them. The brand advocates for forward-thinking solutions to fashion's challenges, choosing to proactively address issues rather than passively waiting for market trends to dictate their actions.
Discover Rkive City:
Instagram: @rkivecity
