Success should be manifested in the form of experiments and innovations. Because persistence, though safer and risk-free, is counterproductive to any organisation. Our new range of eco-friendly denim is an epitome for finding success through experimentation.
While our "Eco-Free" denim collection did no harm to the environment unlike other denim manufacturers in India, it also encouraged you to wear "green" blue jeans. To continue our quest for finding success through innovations and to add more strength to our "Wear Conscious" motto, it is with utmost delight to let you know that we are now launching another sustainable fabric for you to flaunt - Jhag.
Similar to our "Eco-free" denim, Jhag Fabric too, is a product of experimentation. We took our chances and visited a remote village in Rajasthan, where this elusive piece of fabric is being made. Much to our surprise, it is exclusively made by one particular family in the village.
How our quest for an experiment led us to Jhag Village?
Jhag fabric would have remained under the radar if it wasn't for one of our vendors to send an image of it. The very moment we saw the image and understood its manufacturing process, we knew Jhag is bound to see the mainstream market.
The fabric's etymology is tied to a small town in Rajasthan (the one we visited) with the same name, "Jhag". At its core, the fabric is naturally dyed with the vibrant colours obtained from our Mother Earth. This is the reason as to how the fabric is capable of reducing the oversize environmental impact that synthetic dyes impart.
In addition to its sustainability, you can also enjoy the royalty of having a silk-like lustre, sheer texture and the extra comfort of Cotton fabric. Given its versatility and the wide range of merits that this fabric possesses, the process of making is unconventional.
Its small journey in making:
Since it is a comprehensive process, we are simplifying it step-wise, so that it would be easier for you to follow:
- The very first stage for making Jhag is washing the raw cotton fabric thoroughly in water. This stage is called scouring in the textile industry. Scouring will not only clean the material for the further process but also prepares the fibres before receiving the dye. Skipping the pre-wash procedure will make the dye job uneven.
- Once the fabric is scoured, it is immersed in a tub containing natural mordant, Harda(also known as Black Myrobalan). This ensures that the dye adheres well with the fabric. Hence, Harda is also called as a dye fixative. Unlike other mordants, Harda is not intoxicated with heavy metals. It is made naturally from the fruits of Chebula trees.
- Ajrakh or Block Printing is a key stage in the manufacturing process, as it adds a great aesthetic texture to the fabric. Prior to designing, the pattern is first carved on a wooden block and dipped in a paste containing the colour. Then, the wooden block is impressed on the cloth, making recurring and exquisite patterns.
- The colours are obtained from nature. For instance, Haldi(Turmeric) for Yellow colour, Pomegranate for a Red-ish hue, Tamarind paste etc.
- The fabric is then given a final vibrant stroke using an Algerine paste before it is allowed to dry overnight.
- The next day, the dried fabric is immersed in a solution containing imli flowers, which reacts, and imparts colour to the fabric. This is a form of natural dyeing.
- Finally, the fabric is washed before it can be shipped out to your home!
To give you a headstart on how to design Jhag, you will find our favourite outfit ideas for Jhag fabric below.
Jhag Outfit Ideas
What if I told you that this elusive piece of fabric is versatile, with a substantial array of purposes! A Jhag fabric will surely end your wardrobe boredom by adding diversity in choices. The reason for Jhag's widespread utility in fashion is its built and texture - made of mercerized Chanderi cotton, which not only ensures your comfort but also adds longevity and lustre to your outfits.
1) Indo-Western Clothing
Jhag restores the enthusiastic blend of traditional wear and contemporary fashion. You can relish this by wearing Anarkali, Angrakha or Palazzo pants, all tailored using Jhag. While the fabric itself would give the dress a medieval touch, the block-printing on top of it gives it a modern touch. Thus adding a new style to your Indo-Western wardrobe!
2) Kurti
Kurti(or Kurta for men) can be worn in many ways. Starting from, perhaps the most popular one, Kurti with Leggings, to a mix and match with Jeans, the options are broad. Incorporating Jhag will only make the options limitless, helping you to match your Kurti with vests, dhoti pants, and Palazzo pants. Our favourite one by far is, Saree with Kurti as a blouse. This ensemble is tailored to fit your ethnic fashion goals!
3) Jackets
Ethnic Jackets are slowly overtaking the Denim ones. The vivid colours of a traditional jacket made of Jhag, worn along with a Kurti and a Lehenga will surely bedazzle anyone! The Ajrak printing makes a huge difference in this case - subtly adding exuberance to your jacket.
4) Scarf and Dupattas
Needless to say, your traditional wardrobe would look lacking in the absence of Dupattas. They are to outfits, what spices are for your favourite meal. Why not boost the zest and flaunt Ajrak Jhag Dupattas to complement your ethnic wear! Don't limit Dupattas to your traditional, and cultural outings. You can also wear Jhag dupattas like a stole around your neck to reinvent your chic casual look!
5) Skirts
Referring to the nomenclature used in Indian Clothing, we often associate Skirts with "Lehengas", a long skirt that is often worn along with a heavily embellished top or blouse. Jhag Skirts will make you stand out with its unique print and silk-like lustre. A perfect choice for weddings and other cultural events!
Our Intent of Taking it Forward
An experiment should have a startling outcome. Otherwise, there is no point in doing so. Although our quest for an experiment led us to Jhag village - the experiment didn't end there. As a matter of fact, it only started at Jhag Village! Our intent is to have this fabric par the seven seas and beyond!
This month, we unveiled our collection of all-natural, sustainable and eco-friendly Jhag Prints with a tinge of modern touch - now shipping globally. Don't forget to check it out.
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