Design Feature: Rachna Reddy

Nominated for the ' Best Accessory Designer of 2011 ' category by Marie Claire India Fashion awards within the very first year of launching her brand, in itself speaks volumes about Rachna Reddy's work. Based out of Bangalore with an in-house team of 6 people, Rachna Reddy started working on her line in May of 2010. 

Walking out on what is conventionally presumed as a "successful" career path in India - engineering, Rachna followed her heart and went ahead to pursue her passion in accessory design and graduated from Cordwainer's - London College of Fashion. She now has her own label which will be stocked by the likes of 'Paul Smith' in London and Paris very soon!

Love the quote by Buddha on this tote

Fascinated by the possibilities of wood, Rachana designs clutch bags made of teak juxtaposed with softer elements such as silk and leather. The bright colors pop out beautifully on the earthy wooden base, don't you think? Also, the co-existence of soft and strong together, truly seems to represent the spirit of the contemporary woman, such a beautiful concept! Using a combination of laser-technology and artisan hand-crafting, her initial designs interpret the most lovely Indian symbols - lotus and peacock. For the rest she draws inspiration from her cultural roots, architecture, travel, indigenous art forms from around the world.

Quite enchanting product photography too you will agree! :)

Below is an extension to Rachna Reddy's signature line of wood clutches inspired from everything that is bright and illuminating. Titled as Beam this line of clutches are adorned by Studs, crystals, bright highlights and lots of bling. 

The Global Gypsy again is another exquisite line based on nomadic inspirations, exploring stunning artistry of various ancient cultures and free spirit symbols such as butterflies.

All images from Rachna Reddy's website and Facebook Page. Information sources: Rachna Reddy's website, Yourstory.in and hardluxliving.com

Artisan Group Feature : Sandur Kushala Kala Kendra

Thanksgiving - a time to express thankfulness, gratitude and appreciation.

As a thank you, we introduce our artisan groups these 10 days before thanksgiving. Let's know a little more about these wonderfully skilled men and women who create such beautiful products with so much of effort... just for us.

Introducing Sandur Kushala Kala Kendra!

products available at TGE

Sandur Kushala Kala Kendra (SKKK) works with Lambani artisans in the Bellary district of Karnataka. Lambanis also known as Banjaras, are a nomadic gypsy tribe, well-known for their exquisite traditional hand-embroidery using various stitches & mirror crafts. Currently, Sandur works with 300 women engaged in embroidery, khadi spinning and weaving. In addition to being paid for the production of each craft product, women artisans that work with Sandur also receives an annual bonus & other benefits such as health and life

insurance.

Coin Pouches

V-Shaped Bag

Bohemian Bag

Sandur has been previously awarded the prestigious ‘UNESCO Seal of Excellence for Handicrafts in South Asia’. Sandur make unique one off wall hangings, as well as a product range that includes cushions, bolsters, bags & belts.

If you like what you see here... check out more of their products on our website... Shoot us an email-- we have some lovely products coming in from sandur this season. ENjoy today!