Ryoko Haraguchi on Japanese dyeing techniques and Indian textiles

Born in Kyushu, Haraguchi studied at the Otsuka Institute of Textile Design. She fell in love with Indian weaves on her maiden visit to India in 1992. “The sheer range amazed me. I was intrigued that these traditions were still alive in India, if not thriving,” says Haraguchi.

Today, Haraguchi’s label, Sind, retails Indian weaves dyed with Japanese methodology and intricacy. Her current preview collection at Good Earth includes tunics, loose fitting pants, wraps, scarves and long jackets. All of them are free-flowing, and let the dyed intricacy do the talking. “I describe my design philosophy as a blend of urban sensibilities, that which is comfortable and light, and high on the wearability quotient. Silk is often seen as something very heavy, but the way I use it, it is paper light,” she adds.

Earlier she would get the fabric dyed in Japan, but now she runs three workshops, located on the outskirts of Delhi. “I met this Kota silk weaver in Rajasthan and ordered 400 metres of fabric from him, so I could help sustain his craft. We need to buy more,” she says.