Ikat is an age-old tie-dying technique used to create distinct patterns using resist dying certain sections of the yarn before weaving into the fabric.
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Ikat, even though Indian, has an Indonesian origin. This explains why the Indonesian ‘Batik' looks distinctly similar to the Indian Ikat.
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Ikat was introduced into the European textile vocabulary in the early 20th century, when the Dutch began studying textiles of South and Southeast Asia.
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Image credit: Getty
In India, Ikat is traditionally made in Orissa where silk or cotton fabrics are used to make Ikat sarees among other garments.
Since the binding pattern is created on either facets of the fabric, an Ikat fabric will always have the same pattern on either sides.
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Over time, the fashion industry has realised its' value and have come together to revive this traditional textile technique.
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Ikat has picked up huge momentum in the contemporary textile industry where one can see them in western wear and accessories as well.
Image credit: Anita Dongre Grassroot
Image credit: Anita Dongre Grassroot
Many designers like Anita Dongre and Ritu Kumar have experimented and incorporated the art of Ikat in their sustainable fashion collections.
Ikat skirts and kurtis can be paired with just about anything to give an Indian or a boho-chic look.