5 Indian textiles that are a must-buy for non-Indians
Indian textiles, rich in tradition and artistry, offer a diverse range of styles from luxurious Banarasi silk to sustainable Khadi. Explore hand-embroidered Chikankari, bold Kanjeevaram silk, and earthy Ajrakh block prints, each telling a unique story. These handcrafted fabrics connect you to Indian culture and support skilled artisans, providing meaningful alternatives to fast fashion.
Okay, let's talk about something truly awesome, Indian textiles. If you've ever been to India (or even scrolled through an Indian fashion page on Instagram), you know what we mean.
The fabrics here aren't just pretty; they're full-on pieces of art with centuries of tradition woven into them.
From bold silks to hand-embroidered cottons, every region in India has its own style, its own story and honestly, it's impossible not to fall in love. So if you're someone who loves culture, cool fashion, or just wants to take home something more meaningful than fridge magnets, here are five Indian textiles you need to get your hands on.
Banarasi silk
Let's start strong, Banarasi silk. This one's from Varanasi (also called Banaras), and it's basically luxury in fabric form. It's shiny, detailed, and super rich-looking. Originally made for bridal wear, Banarasi silk is now being used for way more, think scarves, jackets, dresses, even clutches.
It usually comes with these stunning gold or silver woven patterns - florals, paisleys, or Mughal-style art. It's bold, regal, and a total statement piece.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025
Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List
Undo
Where to find it: Varanasi if you're in India, or check out Indian handloom stores online, there are loads of good ones now!
Khadi
If you're more into easy, breezy fabrics and want something sustainable, Khadi is your new best friend. It's hand-spun, hand-woven, and was a big part of India's freedom movement. It's got a bit of a rustic vibe, in the best way.
You can get Khadi in cotton, silk, or even wool, and it's perfect for hot weather.
Shirts, dresses, wrap pants, cushion covers, Khadi fits pretty much everywhere and feels super comfy on the skin.
Where to find it: Look for Khadi stores (India has official ones) or shop from slow-fashion brands online.
Chikankari
Ever seen one of those light, breezy white Indian kurtas with beautiful embroidery? That's Chikankari, and it's gorgeous. It comes from Lucknow, and it's all hand-done, which makes each piece a little different and totally unique.
Usually, it's white-on-white (though there are colorful versions too), and it has this soft, romantic feel. You can wear it to brunch, to the beach, or just as your go-to summer outfit. Super elegant, but never over the top.
Where to find it: Lucknow, of course. But it's easy to find in stores across India or from labels online.
Kanjeevaram silk
Now we're heading down south, say hello to Kanjeevaram silk from Tamil Nadu. This fabric is all about bold color combos and traditional temple-inspired designs.
It's heavy, luxurious, and super durable, these pieces literally last forever.
People usually wear them as sarees for weddings, but designers are now turning Kanjeevaram into cool jackets, skirts, even crop tops. So yes, you can totally rock this at your next party or special event.
Where to find it: Kanchipuram, Chennai, or big silk emporiums. You'll also find great options online.
Ajrakh
Last but not least, if you're into boho vibes and handmade stuff, you've gotta check out Ajrakh.
It's a super old block-printing style from Gujarat and Rajasthan. The prints are mostly geometric and done using natural dyes like indigo and madder, so it's earthy and really easy on the eyes.
Ajrakh looks amazing on scarves, flowy dresses, oversized shirts, even home stuff like cushion covers or throws. Each piece is hand-printed in multiple layers, so they take time but trust us, they're worth it.
Where to find it: Artisan markets in Kutch or Bhuj if you're visiting, or from fair-trade brands online.
So, why should you even bother?
Because these aren't just fabrics. They're little pieces of Indian culture you can wear or use and they're all handmade by skilled craftspeople who've kept these traditions alive for generations. Whether you're into bold styles, minimalist vibes, or something in between, there's an Indian textile out there that'll totally match your vibe.
Plus, let's be honest - wearing something unique and full of story feels way better than wearing something fast fashion. And if you ever need a great gift? These are unforgettable.
So next time you're in India or scrolling through an Indian shopping site, skip the boring souvenirs and treat yourself (or your home) to one of these beautiful textiles. You won't regret it.
One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
37 minutes ago
- Time of India
What's behind Alia Bhatt's toned body and magic waist? Her diet secrets and workout regime
On June 20, 2025, Alia Bhatt was photographed stepping out of her regular fitness class, effortlessly putting to rest ongoing speculation about a possible second pregnancy. Dressed in sleek black treggings paired with a matching sleeveless crop top that showed off her toned midriff, Alia exuded confidence and radiance. Her minimal makeup and softly tied half-bun hairstyle gave her a naturally glowing look. As she waved cheerfully to the photographers, her visibly toned waistline spoke volumes, leaving no room for further conjecture. Despite fans recently assuming she was expecting again—especially after her appearance at the Cannes Film Festival, where she was seen gently touching her stomach—Alia's latest outing left no doubt: she's simply staying fit, not pregnant. While shedding postpartum weight can be challenging, Alia Bhatt revealed in several interviews how there's no shortcut to losing weight post-pregnancy and being slow yet steady is the key. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Dukung Orang Terkasih Menghadapi Limfoma: Mulai Di Sini Limfoma Baca Undo A Thoughtful, Gradual Weight Loss Journey Following the birth of her daughter, Raha Kapoor, Alia Bhatt took a patient, science-based approach to regaining her strength and fitness. Rather than resorting to quick fixes or unsafe methods, Alia emphasized healing and balance. In a 2022 interview with Vogue India , she shared that she refused to jump into intense workouts or deprive her body post-childbirth. She gave herself the necessary time to recover, starting workouts only once cleared by her medical team. When Actress Dismissed 'Unnatural' Weight Loss Rumours In another Vogue interview in 2023, Alia had debunked several unfounded claims that she had resorted to unnatural methods to shed post-pregnancy weight. She confirmed she worked out six days a week, even during her pregnancy, staying active under expert guidance. Her regime included a mix of yoga, Pilates, and strength training—all focused on long-term well-being over immediate results. "Many folks are under the impression that individuals who work in the visual medium do unnatural things to their bodies to get back in shape post-delivery. That's why I felt like it was important to document parts of my fitness journey on Instagram. I didn't put any pressure on myself.." she said. Nutritional Strategy Backed by Science Alia's nutritionist, Dr. Siddhant Bhargava, provided further insight into her disciplined approach in a 2024 interview with Humans of Bombay. He shared that Alia had a clear vision—she wanted her weight management both during and after pregnancy to be scientifically sound yet manageable. The duo worked together to monitor her diet monthly, modifying her intake based on her baby's development and her own physical condition. This careful monitoring ensured that Alia stayed healthy throughout her motherhood journey, and when the time came to lose weight, her body responded efficiently without shock or strain. Dr. Bhargava highlighted that it wasn't an effortless journey, but Alia was well-prepared and committed. Her discipline and awareness helped her navigate postpartum health challenges with confidence and clarity. Current Career Moves and Upcoming Projects Alia Bhatt continues to juggle motherhood and her film career with grace. She was last seen in Jigra, an action-thriller directed by Vasan Bala. In the film, she portrayed a fierce sister determined to free her wrongly accused brother. Despite a promising premise, the movie received lukewarm reviews and wrapped up its box-office run with around Rs 55 crore. Looking ahead, Alia is set to star alongside Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's highly anticipated epic Love & War. Additionally, she will take center stage in the female-led action film Alpha, showcasing yet another bold chapter in her career.
Hindustan Times
an hour ago
- Hindustan Times
Actor-martial artist Vidyut Jammwal: Yoga university ran tests on me…
Actor and fitness icon Vidyut Jammwal, widely known for his mastery of Kalaripayattu, credits yoga for bringing true balance into his life. On International Day of Yoga today, the action star shares, 'Yes, I'm a martial artist trained in Kalaripayattu. To truly master it, you need to go on a journey of self-realisation — and that's where yoga comes in. It teaches the art of balancing both body and mind.' Vidyut Jammwal showcasing body balancing in variation of Virabhadrasana and Ardh Chandrasana combination and advanced modification of malasana.(Photo: Instagram) Exploring the deeper dimensions of yogic science, Vidyut adds, 'As a fighter, it's crucial to know when not to fight — when to stay calm. Yoga gives you that balance. Many people today have strong bodies, but still battle depression. That's because yoga hasn't touched their lives. It's only through yoga that you achieve union of the body and mind. Breath control, happiness, calmness... it all begins there.' Over the years, his connection with yoga has deepened. A turning point, he says, was meeting Padma Shri Dr HR Nagendra, the 82-year-old yoga guru to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 'At his yoga university (Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana, Bengaluru), they ran tests on me on how I can control my heart rates and more. My entire perspective on ancient scriptures changed after deep discussions with him. My understanding of yoga evolved,' he continues, 'I've always had a passion to push my limits. After the university tests, I realised I've been able to do that, sit in snow for hours, endure extremes, because I can control my breath. Sab saanson ka khel hai! A guru can guide you, but true realisation comes from within.' Drawing a powerful analogy, Vidyut likens yoga to the very foundation of movement and discipline. Kalaripayattu is like a word; yoga is the alphabet, he explains, noting, 'In sports like cricket or tennis, mastering one leg or hand can make you a champion. But only yoga gives you complete balance — something even the common yoga protocol can help achieve.' As someone who travels the world representing martial arts, Vidyut shares that international audiences always associate India with yoga: 'Woh mujhse sabse zyada yoga ki baat karte hain! They assume every Indian practises it, which, unfortunately, is not true.' For the past year, Vidyut Jammwal has been researching the shankh and spreading awareness about its benefits Encouraging newcomers to take the first step, he adds, 'Recently, at guruji's university I spoke in Sanskrit. I am not so fluent in the language and likely made mistakes but I tried. That's what I tell students, just try. You may not get it right the first time, but trying is where the journey begins. Even just the basic protocol — but under guidance.' Vidyut expressed his fascination with the conch shell (shankh). 'For the past year, I have been researching the shankh. Under guruji, I have made a shankh protocol in prayanam,' he says on a signing off note.
Hindustan Times
an hour ago
- Hindustan Times
Japan PM's wife leads International Yoga Day celebrations in Tokyo with over 2,000 participants
The Indian Embassy in Japan hosted a grand celebration of the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) in Tokyo, drawing a crowd of over 2,000 enthusiastic participants. The occasion was inaugurated by Yoshiko Ishiba, the spouse of Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who also actively participated in performing yoga asanas alongside attendees. The event also saw the presence of Satoko Iwaya, wife of Japan's Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, lending symbolic strength to the deepening cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Japan. On Yoga Day in Tokyo, Japan PM's wife performed yoga alongside diplomats and 2,000 attendees.(X/@IndianEmbTokyo) (Also read: New York's Times Square turns into open air yoga studio for International Yoga Day 2025 celebration) India's Ambassador to Japan, Sibi George, addressed the gathering and underscored the importance of yoga in fostering physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The Indian Embassy highlighted the event in a post on X, saying, 'Glimpses of the 11th International Day of Yoga 2025 in Tokyo. Inaugurated by Madam Yoshiko Ishiba, Spouse of Hon'ble PM of Japan. Occasion was graced by Madam Satoko Iwaya, Spouse of the Hon'ble Foreign Minister. Ambassador @AmbSibiGeorge addressed the gathering of over two thousand yoga enthusiasts. Also, marked by presence of Reverend Myoken Hayama & Reverend Tomohiro Kimura of Tsukiji Hongwanji, Spouse of Ambassador Madam Joice Sibi, senior government officials, Resident Ambassadors and diplomats and friends of India in Japan." Check out the post here: Global theme: One Earth, one health This year's IDY theme, 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health,' reflected the intrinsic connection between personal wellness and planetary health, reinforcing the relevance of yoga in today's world. India's leadership in global wellness Back in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the celebrations from the Visakhapatnam coastline, where naval ships stationed offshore added grandeur to the occasion. Addressing the gathering, he hailed yoga as a gift "beyond age" that transcends all boundaries and unites humanity in "health and harmony." The International Day of Yoga was first adopted by the United Nations in 2014 following a resolution proposed by India and supported by a record 175 nations.
