Akshara

Between the fashion industry churning out 52 “micro-seasons” per year and fast fashion mass producing garments before they even make an appearance on KKW’s Instagram, consumers are buying more, as quickly as possible. For the minute, I’ve moved to the slow lane, trying to re-build my over flowing wardrobe with more unique pieces rather than over saturated trends. This also includes Indian wear & finding the middle ground between comfort & everyday appropriate.

On the side of all this, I feel to be undergoing a not so creative rut but an outfit-rut. I’m feeling uninspired by own closet & loathe even my most beloved pieces. However, in spite of my dismay, I’m veering towards decolonizing my wardrobe & trying to wear Indian clothes in places I would feel discomfort – your typical business casual office.

I remember the first time I wore a kurta & churridar to work, in my head & heart I felt completely normal & wasn’t going against any dress-code rules (I would rock crop-tops on the reg every other day). But, despite my conviction I could feel eyes judging me up & down as I walked across the office or out of the kitchen.

It’s only a matter of time a cotton kurta, cuffed trousers/jeans & sneakers will be deemed appropriate & viewed as your standard t-shirt & jeans combo.

-A