Cascades among mossy green rocks

This is a vintage men's angrakha or jama (I am not sure of the historically appropriate term) that I am wearing as a dress on an expedition to yet another waterfall.

The fabric feels like handloom-ed cotton, is definitely hand-blockprinted and is a flouncy dream of an outfit. The sleeves are too big and too long but that has never stopped me from enjoying an item of clothing. I love the fact that a lot of historical Indian costumes look gender neutral and they give me hope that one day we will evolve beyond this gender-based existence.

Winter beach walks

Sunny winter Sundays spent by the lake or ocean are the best ways to de-stress and re-examines one's priorities. And having an energetic furball just completes the picture of perfection. I have been open about my love for traditional Indian fabrics and cuts and this top or 'Kediyu' as it is called traditionally in Gujarat is one of my prized items of clothing. Last year I went to my tailor with some left over scrap of bright green 'Bandhani' fabric that was too little to be used for much and demanded a Kediyu and he made me this. I love it so much I have qualms about washing it in the machine. I cannot wait to go back this year and get more made.

This top is very commonly seen worn by men in Gujarat and elaborate versions are worn for the Navaratri festival during the fall harvest. I can't really see myself waiting for holidays to wear what I like and therefore I wear these kind of tops all year round. I mean once you've found something you love, have continued being obsessed by it for decades, there isn't much point in wearing it every once in a while.

The last day of summer

Today is officially the last day of summer and I am loathe to let the season of swimming in the sea and basking in the sunshine go, so not ready for anything more than light layers with boots and can't bear the thought of dreary weather. So I dressed in a way that although super common for me makes me feel really happy; old, washed-a-million-times-soft cotton with suitably ventilated jeans and converse.

For ages I knew that I like traditional Indian kurtas and angrakhas but recently have come to the conclusion that I am also only attracted to cuts that are similar. I also only like natural fibres, obsessively check tags to know the exact fabric composition and may have a slight problem. I digress, what I mean to say is these traditional Indian cuts are my go to regardless of current trends and I am getting more and more comfortable in my skin to bother with anything else.

This bag was bought off a Rabari woman in Gujarat who was jaw-droppingly beautiful in a way that only real (read non-fashion) people can be. Currently I am obsessed with travelling and paring down my belongings to keep only things that matter; handcrafted beauties and things with sentimental value.

Have a great weekend, world!