In the world of high fashion, where trends come and go, two exceptional designers, Mia Morikawa and Shani Himanshu, have been the driving forces behind the ‘11.11/eleven eleven’ prêt label, a part of the renowned parent company, CellDSGN Pvt Ltd. This year marked a significant milestone as they celebrated 15 years of passionately showcasing India’s indigenous crafts and practices at Lakmé Fashion Week in collaboration with FDCI.

Embracing the Essence of Handspun Textiles

The Spring Summer 2024 collection by ‘11.11/eleven eleven’ pays homage to the art of handspun textiles. Handspun yarn is more than just fabric; it’s a realization of time itself, where every millimetre of yarn captures every passing second as a memory. What makes handspun yarn truly remarkable is its low twist breathability and its unique irregularity, a result of the skilled human hands that craft it. This fabric becomes a second skin to the body, offering a blend of comfort and artistry.

The Craftsmanship Behind the Collection

Shani Himanshu, Co-founder of 11.11/eleven eleven, describes the unique qualities of the handspun yarns that come together to create these raw, beautiful fabrics. It’s an amalgamation of craft practices, a ‘jugalbandi’ as they call it. The collection showcases classic bandhani patterns by kachchhi artisans, intricate botanical motifs hand-painted by kalamkari artisans, exquisite hand embroidery by the women of the ahir community, resist dyeing techniques by the ajrakh artisans, and natural dye screen printing by bodhi. The collection also features patchwork using reclaimed fabrics, highlighting the brand’s commitment to sustainability.

A Palette of Natural Elegance

The color palette for this collection reflects the essence of a naturally dyed summer. Ladder red, mint green, and lemon yellow dominate, complemented by tints and shades of the brand’s classic indigo hues and vibrant fuchsia pink. The SS24 collection blends different handspun, handwoven stripes within the same garment, creating a visually captivating and playful deconstruction.

Reviving Classic Silhouettes

11.11/eleven eleven’s SS24 collection revisits classic deconstructed drapes, including the timeless saree pants and shirt drapes. The collection also introduces a capsule of block-printed floral checkered patterns, inspired by the distinct Chettinad tiles, also known as Athangudi tiles from Tamil Nadu. These patterns add a touch of cultural richness to the modern designs.

A Showcase of Tradition and Culture

This collection isn’t just about clothing; it’s an exposition of traditional craftsmanship. The ‘madurkathi’ reed mats take center stage, showcasing the incredible artistry of these mats. Additionally, ‘sitalpati’ cane slip-woven bags from West Bengal make an appearance as press kits, a testament to the Rural Crafts and Cultural Hubs project of UNESCO and West Bengal Government’s Department of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises and Textiles.

In conclusion, ‘11.11/eleven eleven’ continues to push the boundaries of fashion while preserving India’s rich craft heritage. The SS24 collection is a remarkable tribute to handspun textiles, showcasing the beauty of tradition and the innovation of contemporary design. It’s an embodiment of art, culture, and sustainable fashion that sets this brand apart in the world of high-end fashion.