Journal

During my recent trip to Kutch, I finally visited the Living and Learning Design Centre (LLDC) in Ajrakhpur, and I am so glad I did. I had heard about the embroidery collection for years, but seeing it in person was a special experience.

LLDC is about 15 kilometers from Bhuj in Gujarat and was established as a dedicated space for the research, documentation, and preservation of Kutch’s rich craft traditions. The museum opened to the public in 2016 and serves as a place where textiles are studied, archived, and thoughtfully displayed. It feels less like a typical museum and more like a serious repository of skill, history, and cultural identity.

The Living Embroideries of Kutch Gallery was truly a treat, and not just visually. The collection represents embroidery traditions from around 11 to 12 major tribal communities of Kutch, and within those there are more than 30 distinct embroidery styles documented across the region. What stood out most was how different each community’s work is. You can clearly see the variation in techniques, motifs, mirror work, density, and so on.

What is equally compelling is that the textiles and utilitarian homewares are not displayed merely as decorative pieces but presented with context. Some communities are nomadic, some pastoral, and each has its own history of movement and settlement. I learned about  Rabari, Ahir, Meghwaad, Jat, and Sodha communities to name a few, and how migration, trade routes, and even India’s partition shaped their craft traditions.

Learning more about the Rabari community felt especially meaningful to me. Our Cottedge Kediya tops are made in collaboration with Geeta Rabari artisans from the Dhebariya Rabari community. While the tops themselves are not embroidered, understanding the depth of Rabari embroidery motifs and history added another layer of meaning to the work we are part of.

There is also a section dedicated to men’s turbans (wish I took more pictures!), which I found fascinating. The way a turban is tied, and sometimes its style and motifs, can indicate the community, social status, and occupation a man belongs to. It took me back to our Peru trip, where clothing was such a strong indicator of what region someone belonged to. There is something powerful about how identity can be read through textiles across cultures.

While I was there, there was also a live block printing demonstration happening on site, which seemed like a fun, hands-on experience. I did not get a chance to try it myself, but I enjoyed watching other visitors participate. There is also a craft store within the campus that features clothing, accessories, and art pieces connected to the region’s textile traditions.

One of the areas of the museum was closed to the public during my visit, and I only had a little over an hour to explore. It honestly felt like sensory overload in the best way. There was so much beautiful work to absorb and so many details to take in. I took photos to document as much as I could, but I know I barely scratched the surface.

I would highly recommend touring with a guide. It was already such a sensory overload, and having someone walk us through the galleries made a huge difference. I joined another group of visitors, and hearing the details and stories behind so many of the communities and pieces helped everything connect in a deeper way.

I truly hope to go back one day. Next time, I would love to bring my mom and my daughters with me. It feels like the kind of place that deserves time, attention, and shared experience, especially since I went by myself this time.

Khamir is a craft resource centre in Kutch, India that works with Kala cotton, Desi Oon (local wool), and related textile traditions, and supports the revival and sustainable development of local crafts. I stayed at Khamir's on campus Guest House for three days during my recent trip to Kutch, and being surrounded by so much craft and creative energy was incredible.

What I loved most was the mix of people I met while I was there. There were small business owners from Europe staying in India for a few months at a time to develop their collections, tourists traveling through Kutch, and students from Indian universities working on interesting research projects. Meals at Khamir became this natural meeting point where people exchanged ideas, helped each other with logistics, shared recommendations, and just talked. It felt like a little community within a community.

The dining hall is where a lot of this happens. You’ll see guests gathering a few times a day, caretakers doing embroidery nearby, people sitting under the bright sun with a cup of tea, talking through ideas or simply catching up. There’s a calmness to the place, but also a steady creative energy that’s hard to explain unless you experience it.

Guest House Caretaker's Pet named Sweety 

I’ve shared about Kala cotton quite a bit on Instagram, but being in Kutch helped me understand it more deeply. Kala cotton is an indigenous variety of cotton that is not hybrid or genetically modified, unlike Bt cotton, which is widely grown in India. It’s traditionally rain-fed and well suited to dry, drought-prone regions, which means it typically requires far less water and no pesticides. Beyond its environmental benefits, the fabric itself has a beautiful, slightly nubby texture and a softness that improves with wear. It’s one of my favorite textiles, and spending time where it’s grown and woven made me appreciate it even more.

Amber Charkha (multi-spindle, hand-operated spinning wheel)

During my stay, I learned a lot about how Kala cotton yarn is spun and woven. Yarn can be mill spun, Amber Charkha (multi-spindle, hand-operated spinning wheel) spun, or Peti Charkha (portable box shaped spinning wheel easy to transport) spun, which is closest to traditional hand spinning. From there, the yarn is handwoven using a loom. Even though all of these fabrics are handwoven, they feel different. Peti Charkha yarn tends to be more rustic and textured, while Amber Charkha yarn is slightly finer and more even.

Peti Charkha (portable box shaped spinning wheel easy to transport)

I also got to see a wide range of handwoven cotton fabrics in Khamir’s warehouse and at the store on the premises. There’s so much happening on site beyond weaving too, including block printing, natural dyeing, and pottery, which makes the place feel very alive and active.

Spending time talking to the Khamir staff, learning more about Kala cotton, and connecting with other creatives during meals were easily my favorite parts of the experience. And I can’t not mention the craft store. It’s a treasure trove of beautiful textiles, pottery, jewelry, and clothing. Exploring the space, trying things on, and bringing a few pieces home was pure joy.

Desi Oon (Local Wool) Vest

I really hope to return to Khamir again, ideally during harvest season, to spend more time learning about Kala cotton and Desi Oon production and to source more beautiful fabrics. It’s one of those places that stays with you long after you leave.

A bit of backstory before we dive into the Patina Collection. Before Patina became a collection, it started with one unexpected find.

I saw my first vintage Kantha quilt in Jaipur on my very first sampling day trip in November 2023, and the “day trip” detail matters. Jaipur is about 350 miles from my hometown, Indore in the state of MP. I was home visiting family for just a week, and without knowing much at all, I booked a morning flight to Jaipur and an evening flight back the same day, simply to explore.

At that point, I had the contact for just one manufacturer, which I had found after a lot of online research, and no real idea of what to expect. I just knew I wanted to kick start Cottedge, and that meant taking the first hard step and just doing it.

While visiting the manufacturer that day, I came across a vintage Kantha quilt that immediately caught my eye. It had incredible color and texture and was worn out in a very unique, special way. It had so much character, and almost instantly I thought, I want to make pants with this!

That pair of pants became my very first sample. The placement of the grey patches was not quite right, and honestly, it still bothers me every time I wear them. But I love the colors, the fabric feels great, and I still reach for them again and again.

First sample pants and also very first Instagram post on Cottedge

Then I made a second pair. This quilt was thicker and felt sturdier, almost like denim. The fabric had weight, and the pants felt solid, like something you could wear all day without overthinking it.

After that, the ideas started to grow beyond pants. I began thinking about vests, jackets, skirts, and tunics. But that first pair of pants will always be special. 

I decided to call it the Patina Collection because the name felt fitting. Patina is about age, wear, and use. It reflects how surfaces change over time and become more interesting because of it. These pieces are not about hiding marks or inconsistencies. They are about working with old textiles and giving them a new life.

I have always been drawn to patina on old doors, furniture, and rusted metal. The oxidation creates unexpected colors and textures, and that is exactly how these vintage quilts felt to me. Each quilt is traditionally made by layering old sarees, dhotis (traditional garments worn by men in parts of South Asia), or similar cloth and stitching them together with a running stitch. This method grew out of practical textile reuse in rural households, where quilts were made for warmth, bedding, and everyday use, and it has been practiced for generations. Over time, the layers soften and shift, revealing new colors and textures underneath. That slow transformation is what makes each piece so special and why no two are ever the same.

On my most recent trip to Jaipur, I returned with a clear intention to source more vintage quilts and make additional Patina pieces. I revisited my original supplier and also connected with a new quilt supplier, and I was blown away by the beautiful quilts I found. A few Patina pieces made from vintage kantha quilts are already available online, with more currently in the works, and I can’t wait to share what’s coming next.

I recently returned from an energizing and very inspiring trip to India. While the trip included sourcing and manufacturing for Cottedge, it was equally an exploratory visit. I spent time in Kutch, Gujarat, learning directly from the artisans and weavers who carry forward generations of textile knowledge.

From Ajrakh block printing and Bandhani (tie-dye) to embroidery and handloom weaving, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the processes, stories, and people behind these crafts. What stood out most was the balance I witnessed everywhere - deep respect for traditional techniques alongside a strong spirit of innovation and experimentation, especially among younger artisans.

In Ajrakhpur, I learned about the complex, multi-step process of natural dyeing and Ajrakh block printing, and saw how artisans continue to push boundaries through new color combinations and layered techniques. In Bhuj, Bandhani artisans are reimagining ancient tie-dye methods with fresh palettes and traditional + contemporary patterns. Embroidery artisans are expanding beyond classic mirrorwork into appliqué and unexpected color stories.

I also visited handloom weavers creating beautiful, distinctive textiles through intricate warp and weft techniques using dyed yarns. The character of each fabric is shaped by many factors - the number of threads used, whether the yarn is hand-spun or mill-spun, and how the yarn is starched and finished. Witnessing entire families involved in different stages of the weaving process was especially moving.

Again and again, I was welcomed into homes and workshops with warmth, conversation, and tea. These moments of connection are as integral to the textiles, and to what we do at Cottedge, as the techniques themselves.

Each craft in Kutch is deeply rooted in its community, passed down through generations and preserved through shared knowledge. This connection between people, process, and place continues to inspire me, and it shapes how Cottedge designs, collaborates, and creates. 

Until next time. I look forward to continuing this work with care and intention.

A closer look at the Kediya - a traditional silhouette from Kutch, Gujarat, reimagined with Dhebariya Rabari artisans in handwoven Kala cotton and hand block-printed fabrics.

For our latest natural dye collection, we’ve partnered with a thoughtful brand called Bageeya. They work with medicinal herbs like Myrobalan and Cutch, along with repurposed flowers from temple offerings in India, to create naturally dyed pieces that are both beautiful and meaningful.

In Hindu temples across India, devotees offer flower garlands as a symbol of devotion. Each day, the fresh flower garlands are replaced, and the ones from the previous day, although still vibrant and fragrant, are usually thrown into water as part of the temple’s daily ritual. Bageeya gives these flowers a second life, transforming them into dyes that infuse fabric with earthy, one-of-a-kind tones.

What drew me to this collaboration is the combination of intentional design, use of natural, handspun and handwoven fabrics, and the sustainability of turning what would otherwise go to waste into something so charming and full of character. Having tried natural dyeing at home during the pandemic with my daughters, I’ve experienced firsthand how unpredictable and labor-intensive the process can be. It’s a delicate balance of art and science affected by temperature, humidity, and time making every piece truly unique.

The silhouettes in this collection are easy to wear, with a focus on letting the textile shine. These aren’t pieces that need much styling - the fabric and abstract prints speak for themselves. Simple, effortless dressing is where they really come alive.

Perfect for summer, the pieces are breathable, naturally dyed, and rich in story. There’s something truly special about wearing clothing that feels this connected - to nature, tradition, and craft.

Looking for something easy, elegant, and a little unexpected? These Chanderi tops deserve a spot in your rotation.

Crafted from a luxurious cotton-silk Chanderi blend, each top is hand block printed in small batches - bringing traditional Indian techniques into a fresh, wearable form. Known for its sheer texture and subtle sheen, Chanderi adds a polished feel to even your most casual looks.

Designed with a relaxed silhouette and gently gathered neckline, these tops offer an effortless fit that moves easily from day to evening. Dress them up or down - they’re as versatile as they are beautiful.

Available in three standout prints:

• A green-and-pink stripe with leafy motifs for a bold, vintage-inspired edge

• A brick red floral with a solid border that brings warmth and charm

• A soft grey floral—delicate, understated, and quietly striking

Lightweight and unlined, they’re perfect for creative layering. Wear them on their own for a breezy, ethereal look, or throw them over a camisole, collared shirt, or even a dress. Pair with jeans, pants, or skirts - styling possibilities are endless.

Each one is made in limited quantities - once they’re gone, they’re gone.

You asked, and we made it happen -- our beloved Block Print Quilted Pants are back, and along with your favorite prints, we’re introducing brand-new prints that bring fresh energy to this cozy essential.

Crafted from hand block printed cotton, these pants boast an intricate quilted texture that adds character to every inch. Designed for ultimate comfort and versatility, they feature:

• A relaxed fit  (Please see actual measurements on the product page for accuracy)
• Soft padding for warmth without bulk
• An easy elastic waistband with a hi dden drawstring feature on the inside to tighten the waist
• Functional side pockets
• A chic button closure at the hem

From exploring new places to lounging at home, these pants move with you. Eat, bend, walk, layer, and travel - effortlessly. Dress them up with a sleek top or keep it casual with your favorite tee or sweater; they’re endlessly fun to style and even more fun to wear.

Don’t miss out - shop your old favorites or grab a new print before they’re gone!

Some dresses deserve a moment of their own, and this Mogra Dress by Chowk is undoubtedly one of them. Blending Jamdani’s lightweight richness with Chikankari’s intricate hand embroidery, it embodies both elegance and comfort.

Jamdani’s airy weave ensures effortless wear, while Chikankari’s delicate floral motifs add timeless charm. Each stitch, crafted by skilled artisans, reflects a heritage of meticulous craftsmanship, preserving tradition and supporting livelihoods.

Photos can’t fully capture the intricacy of Chikankari or the softness of handwoven Jamdani. Wearing this dress is more than a style choice -- it’s an appreciation of history, artistry, and skill.

One of my favorites from the collection, this piece is a treasure - woven with meaning, designed to be worn with pride, and celebrated for its deep cultural significance. We have one last piece of this ethereal Jamdani dress left - don't miss out!

We’re beyond excited to launch these jackets! Made from vintage kantha quilts, each one-of-a-kind piece carries the soul of repurposed cotton saris - stitched together over time with care and tradition. No two jackets are exactly alike, making yours a truly wearable work of art.

Reversible & Versatile

Wear it your way! One side features functional pockets for everyday ease, while the other showcases a stunning mix of prints and textures. It is beautiful inside out to match your mood, outfit, or occasion.

Imperfectly Perfect

Frays, patches, and little marks are not flaws - they’re part of the story. Every stitch and repair speaks to sustainability and thoughtful craftsmanship, making this jacket not just clothing, but a conversation starter.

Style It Your Way

• Keep it casual with denim for an effortless, everyday vibe
• Drape it over a dress for an artsy, elegant touch
• Layer it with a sweater and scarf for cozy, seasonal style
• Wear it under an oversized coat in colder months for extra warmth

Made entirely from 100% recycled cotton, these cozy jackets range from light to medium weight and are designed to be a staple in your wardrobe all year round.

Clothing is one of the most beautiful ways to express who we are. There’s a certain magic in opening your closet, pulling out different pieces, and seeing how they come together -- like puzzle pieces forming a story only you can tell. The thrill of mixing textures, colors, and silhouettes feels much like a painter standing before a blank canvas, each choice adding depth and emotion. It’s a creative process - one where you lose yourself in the joy of discovery, only to find yourself reflected in the final look. And the best part? That feeling of uplift, the boost of confidence and joy that comes from wearing something that truly feels like you.

Above: Banana Republic Shirt, Injiri Skirt, Bib Vest made by Stylebiased

For me, clothing isn’t about brands or trends - it’s a form of self-expression and creativity. I love discovering unique pieces that feel like an extension of who I am. My eclectic style is deeply rooted in my Indian upbringing, where colors, textures, and craftsmanship shaped my perspective. While my style has evolved over the years, I continue to cherish classic Indian fabrics and techniques - cotton block prints, Kota Doria, Jamdani, Chanderi, Maheshwari, Bandhani, and Ikat to name a few. I enjoy reimagining these time-honored textiles in a contemporary way, blending heritage with modern aesthetics. Mixing and matching unexpected pieces excites me, and I find endless joy in the process of creating outfits that feel uniquely my own.

Above: Ichi Antiquités Dress, Asa Clothing Khadi Denim Naturally Dyed Jacket, 11.11 Clothing Scarf, Camper Sneakers

When people ask me, “Where do you usually shop?” I find it difficult to answer because curating my wardrobe is a long, involved process. Sometimes, I stumble upon a one-of-a-kind piece that I know I need to grab immediately before it disappears. Other times, I obsess over something for weeks or months before making a decision. My closet is an ever-evolving collection - tailor-made garments from India that I’ve had for years, vintage and secondhand finds from places like The RealReal, Etsy, Poshmark, and small independent stores, along with timeless staples from mainstream brands. I also cherish high-quality, offbeat pieces from independent designers that last for years and become wardrobe staples. And of course, I incorporate some of my own self-made creations.

Above: Vanilla Tent Top by Ilamra, Quilted Block Print Pants in Mint, Silk Kantha Vest purchased at a fair in India, Robert Clergie Boots (favorite!) via The Real Real

Despite my love for clothing and textiles, I believe in maintaining a lean closet and repeating outfits often. I live by the philosophy of "Buy Less, Choose Well, Make It Last." It’s not always easy in today’s world, where social media constantly bombards us with ads and tempts us with new, shiny things, but I try to be intentional. If I grow bored with a piece, I give it a break for a season and come back to it later with a fresh perspective. If I feel ready to move on from certain garments, I resell them through popular reselling platforms. I try my best to make conscious choices to reduce waste and consume fashion in a responsible way by investing in well-made garments and caring for them properly.

Above: White Tee from Target, Vintage Kantha Quilt Jacket, Tory Burch Sailor Pants via TJMaxx Runway

I also steer clear of trends. Fashion should feel authentic, regardless of what’s currently in style. Interestingly, as a mother of preteen and teenage daughters, I see how challenging this mindset can be for younger generations. My girls, like many middle schoolers, are immersed in a world where “fitting in” is the norm. I often feel conflicted as a mom, wanting them to embrace individuality while also understanding their desire to belong. I always hoped to raise them to embrace originality in their clothing choices, but peer influence is strong. It makes me wonder - how do we teach our kids to celebrate their uniqueness in a world where trends dominate and social media shapes their preferences, even when they aren’t actively on these platforms?

Above: Maria Stanley Shirt, Studio Medium Dress (favorite!), Anokhi Scarf, L' autre Chose Boots via Yoox

Ultimately, clothing is personal. It tells a story, reflects emotions, and serves as an artistic medium. Whether it’s an old favorite revived in a new way or a treasured find that feels like an extension of yourself, the beauty of fashion lies in its ability to empower and inspire. So dress for yourself, embrace the joy of self-expression, and let your wardrobe be a reflection of your true essence.

Above: Chikankari Jamdani Mogra Dress by Chowk, COS X Lemaire Pants, ATP Atelier Sandals

Gallery walls are a wonderful way to infuse personality and story into your living space. While large-scale statement pieces can stand alone in their grandeur, there’s something uniquely charming about curating a collection of smaller works of art that create a tapestry of memories and style.

In our home, creating this gallery wall was a labor of love - a mix of treasures from our travels and pieces made by dear friends. Every piece on this wall has its own story, evoking memories of faraway places or cherished moments. It’s amazing how art can transform a room into a sanctuary, sparking joy every time you pass by, and offering a gentle reminder to pause and reflect.

 Adding Depth and Dimension

To add dimension, we mixed frames of various colors and shapes and even included one of my favorite sculptures. This variety creates a layered, dynamic look that effortlessly draws the eye. While there are “rules” about layout - like anchoring the composition with a large piece at the center - we found that following our intuition worked best. Our goal was to find that balance where the display feels intentional but not overwhelming.

We began by laying everything out on the floor exactly as we envisioned, rearranging the pieces like a jigsaw puzzle until we settled on a final layout we loved.

Your Wall, Your Vision

What I’ve learned is this: there’s no right or wrong way to do a gallery wall. It’s about expressing your unique style, your memories, and the art that resonates with you. Whether you’re team gallery wall or prefer the simplicity of a single artwork, the key is to surround yourself with things that make you happy.

What’s Your Take?

Do gallery walls bring a sense of charm to your home, or do you prefer a more minimalist approach? I’d love to hear your thoughts!