Why India?

From the outset, The Thin Line has had a singular mission: to showcase the artistry, and sustainability of India’s slow fashion to the world. 

A question that many may wonder is why we focus solely on representing slow fashion brands from India? This question is certainly valid especially as a key pillar of sustainability is to support local production, and reduce the carbon footprint. 

Though this has briefly been answered on our vision page, I feel like there is so much more to say for it. 

While growing up in the UK, my connection to India's rich textile heritage has always been deeply personal and profound. Here’s why everyday fashion produced by homegrown Indian brands lies at the heart of The Thin Line and why this focus is essential, both for me and the future of sustainable fashion.

 

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by Indian textiles—the intricate weaves, the hand-dyed fabrics, and the master craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations. As a young child I was surrounded by my mother’s handwoven silk sarees, which informed my interest in textiles and embroidery in those early years. As I grew, I was drawn to the artistry of Indian artisans, the way they created beauty from natural materials with dedication and skill. I’d often pay visits to the V&A in awe of the exhibits of ancient Indian crafts, collecting books dedicated to the topic to learn more.

My frequent visits to India only deepened my respect for the craft. I’ve witnessed the time-honored techniques used in small villages, where artisans continue to handcraft fabrics with the same care as their ancestors. The textures, colours, and attention to detail were not just part of a tradition—they represented a living history of sustainability, craftsmanship, and cultural preservation. These early experiences planted the seed that would eventually grow into The Thin Line, a brand dedicated to celebrating these craftspeople their incredible work and the designers who transform the craft into wearable fashion.

 

Another driving factor behind TTL's focus on Indian fashion is India's legacy as the hub of sustainable textiles. Long before sustainability became a global buzzword, Indian artisans were practising eco-friendly methods of production. Whether through hand-spun cotton (khadi), plant-based dyes, or the intricate block-printing techniques, Indian textiles have always been rooted in natural processes.

India was the leading exporter of cotton before the Industrial Revolution, and to this day, it remains one of the world’s largest textile producers. The processes used by many Indian craftsmen and women are low-impact and support what are known as artisan clusters across the country. Unlike fast fashion, which depletes resources and exploits labour, India’s handloom industry focuses on slow, ethical production. This alignment with sustainability is not only a crucial factor for The Thin Line, but it’s also a principle that resonates with our conscious consumers.

 

Finally, TTL championing Indian fashion brands comes from being inspired by those very brands. In the last 15 years a wave of new-age Indian designers has emerged, blending ancient textile techniques with contemporary aesthetics. These designers honour their cultural heritage while creating collections that feel fresh, relevant, and global.

I wanted to curate a platform where the brands we stock could find a global audience. The Thin Line showcases pieces that are not only stylish and modern but also carry the weight of history, tradition, and sustainable practices. By offering a collection of Indian fashion brands in the UK, TTL brings these stories to a new market—one that will appreciate the narrative behind each piece as much as the design itself.

When you purchase from The Thin Line, you're not just buying a garment. You're investing in centuries of tradition, supporting artisans who are often overlooked by the mainstream fashion industry, and contributing to a more sustainable and ethical future for fashion.

Indian fashion has always been at the intersection of tradition and innovation, and it’s a privilege to share that with you through The Thin Line. We are committed to a future where fashion is not just about trends but about timeless, heritage, and mindful design.