MATSU.006

This particular Matsu long kimono-style jacket is crafted from handwoven textiles originating from India. Reversible in design, the garment reveals a distinct character on each side.  

One side of the kimono jacket features  handwoven organic cotton from Wardha, Maharashtra, dyed with natural indigo. Woven on traditional handlooms, the textile carries the subtle irregularities and tonal depth unique to artisanal weaving. The soft blue-grey surface is complemented by warm ochre details along the collar and belt, creating a restrained and balanced composition rooted in natural materials and traditional craftsmanship.  

The reverse side features a vibrant handwoven silk Pochampally ikat textile from Telangana with geometric motifs in deep indigo-blue, magenta, and warm orange tones. The rhythmic zigzag composition and softly feathered transitions of color are created through the intricate ikat resist-dyeing technique, giving the textile movement, depth, and a distinct visual energy.  

Hand weaving is the ancient practice of manually interlacing warp (vertical) and weft (horizontal) threads to create fabric using traditional wooden looms. The process requires exceptional precision, as the tension, alignment, and rhythm of the threads are controlled entirely by the weaver by hand. Different loom structures, weaving techniques, and fibers produce unique textures, patterns, and densities, making each textile entirely one of a kind.  

Ikat is one of the most complex traditional dyeing and weaving techniques, practiced across various regions of India for centuries. The word “ikat” derives from the Malay-Indonesian term mengikat, meaning “to tie” or “to bind.” Before weaving begins, sections of the threads are tightly bound and resist-dyed in carefully planned sequences to create patterns that emerge only once the textile is woven on the loom. The characteristic softly blurred edges of ikat motifs are not imperfections, but the result of this highly skilled and labor-intensive process.  

Keynote from Kārātoyaa:  
• Please note that, due to the antique nature of many fabrics, pieces may carry subtle signs of previous use — something we believe adds meaning and character to the garment.  
• Some naturally dyed textiles, even after generations, may occasionally release traces of color.  
• All Kārātoyaa garments should be cared for through professional dry cleaning only.