Kara Weaves Handwoven Robes

Ancient Textile Artistry

Mass-produced cotton fabrics are everywhere, but they’re a pale imitation of traditional hand-loomed cotton. Why does it matter? Because this pure cotton yarn (for which Indian fabrics originally gained fame) is suitable only for slow-speed spinning and weaving processes. When produced at these slower speeds, the resulting fabric is softer, more durable and absorbent, and has a breezy, sumptuous feel you simply cannot get any other way.

Today’s Grommet is a one-size-fits-most, handwoven cotton bathrobe with navy blue accents. It comes to us from Kara Weaves, a creative venture in Kerala, India, that’s trying to bridge the gap between traditional Indian hand-loomed textiles and today’s contemporary lifestyle. Kara Weaves works with independent teams of weavers and small sets of rural tailors to help boost India’s economy while preserving this fabric artistry. The women behind the venture (in the photo, left to right) include founder Indu Menon, a social scientist and anthropologist, B. Sreedevi, an expert on Kerala handloom fabric, Revathy Menon, a noted Indian social activist, actor, and filmmaker, and Suryakala Satish, a packaging and product expert.

No two Kara Weaves robes are exactly alike, since each bears slight variations depending upon the weaver. Orders ship directly from India, so shipping time will be a bit longer than you may be used to, but we promise these lightweight, gorgeous robes are well worth the wait.

— Mir

• Robes are one size fits most
• Dimensions of Robe: Length: 42”, Across Shoulders 18”, Sleeve Length: 17”, Circumference: 60”
• 100% cotton handwoven
• Machine washable
• Yarn is custom dyed and the cotton is handwoven, so no 2 robes are identical
• May take up to 4 weeks to make and deliver to the US from India