Silk Kantha T-Shirt
The Nila x Anna Valentine Kantha t-shirt is based on an iconic archive shape from Anna's previous collections. The curved panelling in the sleeves and body creates a sculptural, contemporary silhouette, re-interpreted here by Nila using handwoven textile and traditional Indian techniques. The entire piece is crafted from three layers of fine matte silk, hand-woven on specialised looms in Karnataka. The layers were pressed together and embroidered across their entire length by rural women in West Bengal, using the traditional craft of Kantha - running stitch embroidery traditionally used to create quilts out of repurposed saris. If you peer closely, you will see that what seems to be a simple texture is actually a geometrically sophisticated pattern of stars in the stitch work. Each seam has been carefully multi-stitched, leaving raw edging. The piece has then been dipped once, carefully, into a natural indigo vat. To create this colour of the clear sky, takes significant knowledge and a perfectly balanced vat.
100% silk
Dry clean only.
Natural indigo is a millennia-old plant dye. The alchemy of earth, water; air, and indigo leaves creates an unpredictable beauty.
Please handle this precious piece with care, and it may last you a lifetime. The rich natural colour may fade slightly over time, with exposure to direct sunlight.
Domestic: Delivery in 2-3 weeks.
International: Delivery in 3-4 weeks.
Shipping charges and taxes will be calculated at checkout. Custom Duties & Taxes for international orders are not included in your order and are over and above any shipping charges paid at checkout.
Find out more about our Shipping Policy and Returns & Exchange Policy.