15 Sustainable South Asian-Owned Brands to Know and Support
Happy South Asian Heritage Month baddies! It’s officially observed between July 18-August 17 in the U.K. (but not in the U.S.—booo, you whore) to commemorate the lead-up to independence from Britain for many South Asian countries; and as we know, resistance to and recovery from colonialism are intertwined with the sustainability movement. Many South Asian cultures maintain traditional practices in harmony with the environment, inspiring us to prioritize long-term ecological balance and the interconnectedness between humans and the natural world.
Read on to add more South Asian-owned goodness to your roster of susty brands!
1. Warp
Warp challenges tradition by creating high-quality geometric handbags and minimalist accessories hand-crafted in Lahore, Pakistan. They blend innovative design methods with traditional craftsmanship, catering to people who appreciate non-conformist aesthetics while promoting high-end leather accessory manufacturing in Pakistan.
2. TIGRA TIGRA
Sustainable textile and garment studio TIGRA TIGRA collaborates with artisan-owned businesses in Gujarat to bring their designs to life. Employing low-impact and traditional techniques, some dating back to the Ottoman Empire, their hand-powered looms in Gujarat use no electricity.
3. Kulfi Beauty
Kulfi creates clean beauty products tailored to diverse skin tones and concerns, taking the guesswork out of finding the perfect shade. Kulfi proudly supports organizations that provide access to mental health services addressing the unique challenges faced by South Asian communities.
4. Abacaxi
Founded by designer Sheena Sood, Abacaxi creates mindfully-made clothing inspired by travel, vibrant hues, and the beauty of nature. Abacaxi brings together a tropical spirit and NYC lifestyle using traditional handcraft techniques like handloom weaving, mirror beading, schiffli embroidery, and plant dyeing.
5. Zohra Rahman
Lahore-based jewelry designer Zohra Rahman’s ethical jewelry label focuses on reinterpreting traditional silversmithing techniques. Rahman personally trains each artisan in her workshop, fostering innovative and experimental forms of adornment while equipping the local community with specialized skills.
6. Proclaim
LA-based inclusive nude lingerie brand Proclaim uses earth-conscious fabrics, including cupro, an organic cotton/hemp blend, Repreve® recycled polyester, and TENCEL™ to minimize textile waste. They partner with a family-and BIPOC-owned apparel factory, prioritizing fair wages, safe working conditions, and compostable packaging.
NorBlack NorWhite operates as both a cultural platform and a creative studio inspired by India's exceptional craftsmanship and traditional textiles. They focus on community amongst their team, custom design-wear, and honoring the past.
8. Bodice
Founded by Ruchika Sachdeva, Bodice refines and elevates traditional Indian fabrics and weaving techniques. With a minimal and detail-centric approach, Bodice combines clean silhouettes, graceful fluidity, and geometric proportions to create seasonless garments that transition from day to night.
9. Sahajan
Founded by Lisa Mattam and inspired by her family's traditional practices in Southern India, Sahajan is a natural skincare line rooted in the 5,000-year-old science of Ayurveda. Through regulatory reviews, clinical trials, and consumer testing, Sahajan offers evidence-based solutions combined with the wisdom of Ayurveda for healthy and mindful living.
10. Hidden Grounds
Founded by Spoorthi Kumar and Anand Patel, Hidden Grounds is a vibrant coffee and chai destination with multiple locations in New Jersey and Brooklyn. Their warm atmosphere, pastries, and diverse selection of coffee and chai options invite people to forge meaningful connections and make lasting memories.
Mango People aims to provide inclusive representation, sustainability, and transparency within the industry. Their plant-powered and water-free formula products, inspired by South Asian roots and Ayurvedic teachings, have multiple uses and come in recycled aluminum packaging.
12. Haati Chai
Founded by designer Stella Simona and inspired by her heritage, Haati Chai’s jewelry designs embrace the past while looking forward. Their everyday heirlooms symbolize the wearer's journey and tell stories for generations to come. The brand builds conscious partnerships to shed light on meaningful issues.
13. Gundi Studios
Founded by Natasha Sumant, Gundi celebrates rebellion and authenticity Challenging the fashion industry's oppressive systems for a more equitable one, they prioritize traditional techniques and support women and allied men in their supply chain through ethical practices.
Maalicious, a women-run brand, provides a platform for women artisans in India while rejuvenating traditional arts. Their gold-plated handmade jewelry blends Indian workmanship with urban flair and features sustainable materials like clay and wood.
15. Diaspora Co.
Diaspora Co. is an ethical spice brand committed to decolonizing the spice industry. They source 30 single-origin spices from 150 farms in India and Sri Lanka, paying their farm partners 6x above the commodity price and investing in infrastructure development.
Which South Asian-owned brands do you love?