Texas, known for its cowboy boots and hats may not seem like the place Indian Designer Anita Dongre would visit for a trunk show, but the stylish ladies of Houston showed her that they are not only interested in fashion, but also giving back while looking good.
I got a chance to chat with Anita about her passion for helping Indian women gain economic independence.
“A lot of our embroidery work is done in the remote villages of Gujarat.”
“They are artisans, this is something they have learned from their mothers, their grandmothers.”
“I feel grateful that I am able to help them keep their craft alive and also empower them.”
“If it is going to be anything that changes my country, it is the women.”
“The diversity of our country’s craft and textiles is unparalleled in the world.”
“I love Rajasthan and Gujarat for the way the women dress and carry themselves.”
“Indian women know how to dress.”
P.S. If you are ever in New York, be sure to pop into Anita’s shop in Soho. We loved stopping by and reading about the women Anita’s projects are helping.
A big thanks to Bibi Magazine for bringing Anita Dongre to Houston.
Images courtesy of Anita Dongre and Quy Tran