In a world that’s becoming increasingly conscious of its environmental footprint, Dressfolk, an Indian handloom ethical clothing brand, is making waves with its unique approach to fashion. With a recent infusion of Rs 3.3 crore in a seed funding round led by All In Capital, Dressfolk plans to redefine sustainable fashion in India and beyond.
Empowering Artisans, Enriching Traditions
Founded in 2017 by Nitin Mehrotra, Dressfolk is not just a clothing brand; it’s a testament to the fusion of traditional Indian craftsmanship and contemporary design. Dressfolk’s mission is twofold: modernize age-old Indian weaves and empower local artisan communities. The company doesn’t just source fabrics; it designs and co-produces every garment in collaboration with artisans. This hands-on approach ensures that every piece of clothing is a work of art, preserving the essence of Indian traditions.
Currently based in Delhi, Dressfolk boasts an impressive network, working closely with over 600 weavers and 120 artisans across six states in India. The brand’s commitment to ethical practices and sustainable fashion goes beyond its stylish creations. It strives to build collaborative relationships with artisans, delving deep into India’s diverse craft regions and traditions. In doing so, Dressfolk is fashioning clothing and fostering cultural preservation and economic empowerment.
The Seed Round Buzz
The recent Rs 3.3 crore seed funding round, led by All In Capital, has generated significant excitement in sustainable fashion and venture capital. Sidhant Keshwani, Sidhesh Chauhan of Jade Blue, Riju Jhunjhunwala, Vikrampati Singhania, FinFirst Advisors, Apurva Ramesh Damani, and Pranav Sanghvi also joined the funding round, showcasing the growing interest in ethical and sustainable businesses.
Global Reach and Local Impact
Dressfolk’s reach extends far beyond the borders of India, with a customer base in more than 20 countries worldwide. Its appeal lies in its ability to blend traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, making it a brand that resonates with fashion-conscious individuals globally. By introducing international consumers to the beauty of Indian textiles and craftsmanship, Dressfolk promotes sustainable fashion and showcases India’s rich cultural heritage globally.
A Growing Landscape
Dressfolk is one of many players in the sustainable fashion game. Fab India, Jaypore, Cotton World, Upasana, and Ethicus are notable brands championing ethical fashion in India. However, Dressfolk’s emphasis on direct collaboration with artisans and its deep-rooted commitment to preserving Indian craft traditions set it apart in this burgeoning industry.
All In Capital, the lead investor in Dressfolk’s seed round, is no stranger to supporting innovative startups. With previous investments in space tech startup PierSight, Volt Money, Varee, MoMoney, and EximFiles, among others, All In Capital is contributing to the growth of a diverse range of industries, highlighting the significance of ethical fashion and sustainability in today’s world.
As Dressfolk continues to weave its story of ethical fashion and sustainable growth, it is a shining example of how fashion can be a force for positive change. With its roots deeply embedded in Indian traditions and its vision set on a global scale, Dressfolk is not just a clothing brand; it’s a movement towards a more ethical and sustainable future in fashion.
