A unique fashion brand based in Kingston is redefining the concept of sustainable fashion. Bianca Kuttickattu, the creative force behind Namai Studio, emphasizes her mission to bring joy through clothing. Her designs, characterized by elaborate patterns and vibrant hues, are crafted using vintage Indian kantha quilts. Each piece features dual aesthetics, offering wearers the flexibility to choose a look that aligns with their mood or outfit.
Recent developments have seen Namai Studio relocate its headquarters from Sullivan County to Kingston's Hasbrouck Avenue. This move signifies an important chapter for the brand, as Kuttickattu continues to innovate within her new studio environment. By selecting quilts from photographs provided by suppliers in India, she determines the jacket styles each quilt will transform into. The production process remains rooted in India, where skilled artisans handcraft each garment, ensuring every piece is distinct and imbued with cultural significance. Beyond jackets, Namai offers a range of accessories, including tote bags, which originated as a zero-waste initiative utilizing leftover fabric.
Kuttickattu’s journey in the fashion world has been deeply influenced by her educational background and professional experiences. Having studied at prestigious institutions like London College of Fashion and Middlesex University, she developed a passion for secondhand materials early on. Her internships at Maison Margiela and an NGO in Brazil further solidified her commitment to sustainable design practices. These formative years shaped her philosophy, leading her to establish Namai in 2020 after leaving her corporate job. What began as a modest collection of ten jackets has since flourished into a thriving enterprise, expanding through local markets and e-commerce platforms. Engaging with the community remains central to Namai’s ethos, demonstrated by events such as upcoming studio parties designed to foster connections and celebrate creativity.
Clothing serves not only as a means of self-expression but also as a powerful tool for promoting sustainability and cultural appreciation. Bianca Kuttickattu’s Namai Studio exemplifies how traditional craftsmanship can harmoniously blend with contemporary design, inspiring others to embrace ethical fashion choices. Through her work, she advocates for mindful consumption and highlights the beauty of uniqueness in both people and products.