This blouse and skirt set is Indian designer David Abraham’s response to the nyonya sarong kebaya, using traditional Indian techniques of production. The black leaves on the V-neck blouse are embroidered, while the contrasting motifs of white leaves on the skirt are rendered in double ikat (patola) – a technique where both the warp and weft yarns are resist-dyed before being woven together. The monochrome, geometric motifs, and straight silhouette show the minimalist aesthetics of the brand, while drawing focus on its forte in weaving technologies. David Abraham, the co-founder and creative director of Abraham & Thakore, was born in Singapore to Chinese Peranakan mother and Indian father. This piece is inspired by his mother’s photographs and kebaya which David still keeps. He recalls his mother’s style having influenced his love for fashion as a child. Abraham & Thakore is reputed for its research and development of traditional textile techniques, such as handloom or double ikat, that are incorporated in fashion for the modern lifestyle.
