Les Indiennes: Fabrics with a conscious

Much of the beauty of our fabrics lies in the subtle color and pattern variations found on every bolt. Imperfections are normal, pleasing hints that the fabrics are made entirely by hand.

Les Indiennes has changed the way of producing fabrics, so much so that it leaves us wanting more. The production of their fabric uses no electricity, does not cause pollution nor does it disrupt the traditional lifestyle of the village where it is made. Providing fair trade employment for over 50 families, raising the standard of living for the entire community, and all the while leaving no environmental or social footprint, the brand stands for a high morale and true integrity. With a vivid picture in mind of what she wanted to create, Mary Mulcahy launched Les Indiennes in 2002. Highlighting the process of naturally dyed cotton, with airy patterns of big, single colored motifs, the idea formed from a missing link she could not identify in the local markets. She was unable to locate anything like she visualised, so she decided to create her own. She found a craftsman named Srinivas in a tiny village in southern India. He is one of very few craftsmen who still practice the ancient art of kalamkari, an extremely complex printing method.