[Source: Singania’s]
Ajrakh prints have been given a good boost in the fashion sphere and bringing the best of Indian textiles into use in the contemporary outlook. These conventional prints, identified by their clarity of design and environmentally friendly manufacturing, have always been a part of India. Today it’s stepping out into the fashion world as more of an everyday accessory that is stylish and never goes out of the trend. Here is how you can incorporate Ajrakh print in your wardrobes and what the exquisite Indian fabric has to offer you.
What are Ajrakh Prints?
[Source:Instagram/Taavi]
Ajrakh printing is an art which has originated in the regions of Kutch in Gujarat and Barmer in Rajasthan. The name is Ajrakh has been derived from the Arabic word ‘Azrak which means blue, which is synonymous with the most used colour, indigo. This block-printing technique has been practised for centuries applying natural dyes only involving techniques like dyeing-washing-drying repeatedly. The patterns that emerge can be very sophisticated: geometric and symmetrical, they are sometimes reminiscent of works of Islamic ornamentation.
Ajrakh print, made by skilled craftsmen, are a result of up to sixteen stages known as the process of development of the fabric. Natural dyes applied here are indigo, madder and iron whereas the technique of printing makes the fabric rich earthy tone, thus being valuable and environmentally conscious.
How to Incorporate Ajrakh Prints Into Your Wardrobe
[Source: Faridagupta, Ekantastudio, Okhai, Masakalee]
Introducing Ajrakh prints into your fashion world is not a difficult task at all. Regardless of whether you go for ethnic wear or trendy wear, Ajrakh complements both ethnic and trendy wear. To be more formal and classic, the ajrakh printed kurtas or ajrakh sarees are the best choices. These make Indian prints ideal for ethnic wear and blend tradition and class. With so much of the Ajrakh fabric available for use, it can be worn to accompany a festive event or can be worn as part of ethnic wear but does not restrict itself to just these two looks.
[Source: Instagram, indiamart, amazon, kiana fashion]
If you want to look a little more modern, then opt for Ajrakh print dresses, skirts or tops. These outfits rightly capture the essence of Indian fabric and look fashionable at the same time! Suggest they team up their prints with plain-coloured accessories so that the prints pop. For the ones who wish to incorporate classic prints gradually into their clothing collection, Ajrakh scarves or dupattas are the perfect beginning. These accessories, on their own, can transform an ordinary outfit and provide a hint of cultural heritage.
Why Choose Ajrakh?
[Source: Singania’s]
Let’s understand that Ajrakh prints are not only beautiful but are also part of slow fashion. Being in an eco-friendly category, the natural dyes and processes employed in the Ajrakh printing are ideal for anyone with specific concerns about the impact of their products on the environment. Further, wearing Ajrakh helps the local artisans who are continuing this art form right from their forefathers.
There is no better way to empower heritage and the Indian textile sector than to update your wardrobe with Ajrakh prints.
