I Was A Sari: Empowering Women Through Upcycling

In a crowded market of emerging brands, “I Was A Sari” stands out as a truly purpose-driven and impactful initiative. This brand, driven by a profound commitment to sustainability and social impact, has woven a unique narrative in the world of fashion.

One remarkable aspect of their mission is the “Now I Can” program, a collaborative effort with the luxury giant Gucci through Gucci Equilibrium. This initiative offers a comprehensive embroidery training course, accessible free of charge to social enterprises and NGOs. The program empowers Indian women by equipping them with income-generating skills, opening doors to the labor market. Even those without prior industry experience can benefit from this online training, covering both theory and practice. “I Was A Sari” also welcomes like-minded NGOs to join hands in advancing women’s empowerment.

The brand’s sustainable ethos extends to reusing pre-loved saris sourced from local markets, upcycling nearly 3 lakh sq.m. of fabric. These transformed textiles find new life in women’s clothing, bags, jewelry, and more establishing the brand as a global ambassador for circular fashion, featured in prestigious publications such as Vogue and Elle.

What’s truly exceptional is the brand’s dedication to empowering women artisans. Their all-female team, consisting of over 250 women, skillfully crafts saris into unique, conversation-worthy pieces. Beyond providing stable income, the brand equips these artisans with essential soft skills. They also provide English language training, and healthcare support, promoting their independence and self-worth.

“I Was A Sari” is a shining example of how fashion can be a powerful catalyst for positive change. Their journey is further empowered by partners like KLoc Technologies, contributing to their digital reach and enabling them to touch a global audience.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The Linkedin