Sundari

Within & without

For Label Earthen’s latest presentation, it all started with a simple question: What is beauty now? Why have humans engaged with the concept of beauty for millennia, trying to define it while being defined by it? Why are we marvelled and uplifted by the cultural multiverse of beauty, pulled out of our small, ordinary lives, and taken to a realm far richer and more eloquent than anything we know.

Why is it that beauty evokes harmonies that transport us to a place where, for only seconds, time stops and we are one with the world. How is it that beauty can take on limitless shapes, allowing us to define it by what makes the most sense to us?

This inquiry set the tone for our newest launch Sundari. Set against Nepal’s captivating capital Kathmandu, the campaign unravels itself in little pockets of enchantment. From the riot of sights, sounds and smells to Nepal’s timeless cultural and artistic heritage revealing itself in its hidden temples, the story of Sundari unfolds itself through all these little wonders.

This showcase by Label Earthen is also a return to the classics. Sarees rendered in rich tones of red and inky blue, embroidered and printed kurtas, kaftans, and lehengas in shades of emerald green and pink, and simple yet sophisticated foil-printed chanderi kurtas for men. The multiplicity of colours is a metaphor for finding beauty in diversity. Elsewhere in this line-up, you’ll also find fresh prints with the pomegranate motif done by the brand for the first time.

Fabrics like silk and organza embroidered with zardozi add a glowing richness to all the ensembles while giving them fluidity so they gently glaze the body without looking awkward or rigid. The soft, supple fabrics make each creation a joy for its wearer and the silhouettes add unrestrained versatility to the clothing.

With its vivid visuals and distinct design language, Sundari brings forth the plurality of hues, prints, and an earnest attempt to understand the many facets of beauty. Is it only found in a pre-set mould set by the many generations behind us? Or is it ever-evolving? Towards the end, we asked ourselves again: What is beauty now? Our answer: Anyone who believes themselves to be so.