Sonam Kapoor continues her effortless streak of turning every appearance into a style moment. With Rhea Kapoor once again curating her look, Sonam proves that her fashion choices go far beyond couture
runways and European luxury houses. For her latest outing, she chose a striking ensemble from EAST by Easternlight Zimik, a label rooted in Ukhrul, Manipur. The piece beautifully showcases the essence of traditional Manipuri weaving, the deep maroon and black tones instantly draw the eye, making it an ideal winter palette, while the sharp geometric motifs highlight the meticulous craftsmanship of the back-strapped loin loom.
In Manipur, weaving is a heritage skill largely preserved and practiced by women. Most artisans learn the craft from mothers and grandmothers, carrying forward generations of knowledge. Central to this tradition is the back-strapped loom, an ingenious device anchored at one end to a fixed point and at the other around the weaver’s waist. This setup creates an intimate, physical connection between the weaver and the fabric, and the process demands strength, precision, and unwavering focus.
These women spend long hours at the loom, producing textiles that often carry motifs tied to clan histories, stories from folklore, and imagery from the region’s natural environment. For many communities, weaving continues to be a crucial source of income and independence for women.
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EAST was founded on the belief that Manipuri weavers deserve a platform to share their artistry with the world. The brand emphasizes its commitment to building the support systems necessary to protect these fragile traditions, which face threats from economic struggles and dwindling demand.
Across India, countless indigenous weaving practices are fading as inexpensive machine-made fabrics dominate the market. But as labels like EAST work to revive and sustain these crafts, it becomes all the more powerful when public figures shine a light on them. Sonam Kapoor did just that—letting the handmade textile take center stage, complemented simply by black ballet flats and a gold tribal-inspired choker.
