Want to know what the Top 10 South Asian Design Patterns are?

Elisa and I had a fun time researching South Asian designs last year and we came to the conclusion that...the children's clothing industry is not showcasing the various beautiful design patterns that are well known to this part of the world. Here is a short list of 10 design patterns that we love: 

1. Paisley (Buti/Buta)

A teardrop-shaped motif with intricate details, commonly associated with Indian, Pakistani, and Persian textiles. Widely used in sarees, shawls, and kurtas. This one is a classic and we love it..That is why this is one of our launch design patterns. 

2. Bandhani (Tie-Dye)

A dyeing technique that creates intricate dot patterns on fabrics. Popular in Rajasthan and Gujarat in India, often seen in dupattas, sarees, and turbans.

3. Ajrak

A block-printing pattern characterized by geometric and floral designs, traditionally done in Sindh (Pakistan) and Gujarat (India). Often crafted in deep reds, blues, and blacks.

4. Ikat

A weaving style where threads are dyed before being woven into patterns. Found in regions like Odisha (India) and Bangladesh, with bold, blurry-edged designs.

5. Chikankari

A delicate hand-embroidery pattern from Lucknow (India) involving floral and geometric motifs on light fabrics like cotton and muslin.

6. Kalamkari

A hand-painted or block-printed design featuring mythological, floral, and narrative themes. Originates from Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, India.

7. Phulkari

A vibrant embroidery pattern from Punjab (India and Pakistan), featuring floral motifs stitched on coarse cotton in bright colors.

8. Kashida/Kashmiri Embroidery

A fine needlework style from Kashmir, featuring intricate patterns inspired by nature, such as flowers, leaves, and birds. Used in shawls, sarees, and kurtas.

9. Mirror Work (Shisha)

Embellished patterns using small mirrors, commonly associated with Gujarat and Rajasthan. Often seen in lehengas, dupattas, and cholis.

10. Zardozi

A luxurious embroidery style using gold or silver threads, sometimes combined with pearls and stones. Popular in bridal and ceremonial wear across South Asia.

There you have it. 10 design patterns that we believe are under utilized in children's clothing. We are so excited for our future design pattern ideas. 

We believe through En Route Designs, we can showcase these beautiful design patterns that carry cultural significance and modernize traditional clothing for children.

-Abhishek 

PS...Join our community. Lets grow this community together. We promise to listen, keep our community involved in the design process for future projects and offer special incentives for being a part of the En Route Adda (community). 

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