MY STORY

The idea for Premaasi Textiles is simple. I want to provide women with unique (and gorgeous!) alternatives to fast fashion products. I know you can tell the difference! In the words of a client, my scarves and necklaces will make you “feel like you’re wearing art, and look and feel terrific”. 

​

I founded Premaasi Textiles with a mission: to inspire women (you!) with style and purpose, while providing artisans a living wage, respect and dignity.

​

I sell hand-crafted textile accessories ethically sourced from artisans in India. Promoting the makers and telling their stories gives meaning to their work. As lovers of style, beauty and all things handmade, I know you will find this meaning.

​

​When (and how) did it all begin? 

​

Growing up in Mumbai in the 1970s, ready-to-wear clothing was scarce if available at all. I spent Saturday afternoons picking out hand-crafted fabric from crafters all over India. Those afternoons spent with my mother and aunt are special memories today. Each piece of fabric was made into a one-of-a-kind garment.

​

My love for handmade fabrics was born then.

​

The fabrics represent so much more than a scarf or a piece of clothing. They represent skill, tradition, heritage, and employment for artisan families.

​

Supporting artisan families, and keeping tradition alive 

​

By buying their products and introducing them to new markets, I keep alive artisans' skill. I help inspire their children and grandchildren.

 

​The 200 million or so artisans in India have a right to a dignified living. Most live below the poverty line. A disaster like Covid-19 can wipe out entire communities, and leave families destitute. This happened during the worst of the pandemic.

​

A fast fashion alternative

​

My products have a uniqueness and quality that mass-manufactured pieces just don't offer. Wherever possible I buy from women, and organisations which show equality in employment.​​

​

By avoiding expensive gift shows, middlemen and complex supply chains, I keep prices reasonable. 

​

I want to give you another option: quality hand-crafted products, but without the high prices...“affordable luxury”.

​​​​​

Please read my Sustainability Guidelines here.

​​​

What's in the name, anyway?

​​​

Premaasi is short for "Preeti Maasi". Maasi is "mother's sister" in Hindi. The name Premaasi is inspired by my community, both young and old that warmly call me "Preeti Maasi". In a small way, Premaasi Textiles aims to make the world a better (and more beautiful) place for them.

​​​

Want to “feel like you’re wearing art, and look and feel terrific”? Browse the collection here.