New Delhi: When we think of Gen Z fashion tips, the first thing that pops up is fast fashion, Instagram-worthy outfits, and aesthetic looks. However, surprisingly,
the Gen Z population is increasingly focusing on sustainable fashion with the adoption of Indian handwoven fabric. Something that resonates with freedom fighters, politicians, and Gandhian austerity, today, Khadi is crawling back into the fashion game and facing a global revival.
Ironically, the same generation that is accused of being ‘distracted and digital’ is the one bringing back India’s age-old crafts. Take a quick scroll on Instagram or stroll through an urban flea market, and you can see the revival of the Khadi trend. Young creators flaunting ikat crop tops, chanderi sarees styled with sneakers, and khadi co-ord sets styled with chunky silver jewellery.
How Gen Z is making Khadi cool again?
Gen Z represents a demographic born between 1997 – 2012, a group that is always in a rush and wants everything in minutes. But they are also socially aware, eco-aware, and increasingly questioning the impact of fashion on the environment. Rather than simply accepting, they question the ethical cost of fast fashion. To them, the clothes represent individuality, personality, and values.
And, Khadi perfectly checks all the right boxes. The very fabric which was woven into the fabric of India’s freedom struggle is now gently evolving, led, perhaps anomalously, by India’s newest consumer generation.
1. Sustainable fashion:
Khadi appeals to Gen Z shoppers owing to its low carbon footprint. Since Khadi is handspun and handwoven, it requires minimal energy and water compared to fast fashion production, which attracts an eco-conscious mindset.
2. Cultural Pride and Authenticity:
Handloom speaks of the craftsmanship and heritage of India. That is why Gen Z is proudly styling Khadi attire because each string of the fabric has a story behind it.
3. Handmade uniqueness:
Today, the market is brimming with fast fashion and amidst this, Khadi stands as a canvas for self-expression and uniqueness. Every Khadi piece is crafted by artisans, giving it a touch of individuality and unrepeatable.
4. Affordable and accessible:
Another reason why Gen Z is ditching fast fashion is that Khadi is affordable and accessible. Unlike many brands supposed to be sustainable, Khadi is locally sourced, handmade, and budget-friendly. With KVIC outlets, designer collaborations, and e-commerce stores, Khadi is no longer restricted to government showrooms.
Runway revival of Khadi
Khadi’s comeback isn’t just Gen Z’s doing—fashion designers are driving the change too. Names like Rajesh Pratap Singh, Anavila Misra, Gaurav Jai Gupta (Akaaro), and Rimzim Dadu have taken the fabric to runways, styling it into jumpsuits, jackets, drapes, and saris far beyond the kurta–Nehru jacket image.
By blending ancient weaves with contemporary cuts, they’ve made khadi trendy, versatile, and global—while also working closely with rural weavers to keep its roots alive.
From being Gandhi’s fabric of freedom to becoming Gen Z’s fabric of choice, khadi has come full circle. This generation is redefining cool—not through fast trends, but through fabrics that tell a story of resilience, sustainability, and style. Khadi isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving, one Instagram reel and streetwear drop at a time.
