10 block-printed co-ord sets you need to bookmark for the summer

One of the most special experiences in my decade-long travel writing career was visiting a block-printing workshop on the outskirts of Ahmedabad. I got to meet Sahid bhai, a master craftsman whose family had been employed in the craft for four generations. He spoke eloquently about the heritage of block printing, recounted memories of his career that has spanned over half a century, and let me touch and feel 200-year-old wooden blocks.

I walked around the workshop and saw artisans stamp beautiful Mughal motifs using engraved blocks that made a thumping sound. There were machines to roll and press the fabric and a separate section in the back where I got to view the spectacle of washing. The dyes on the block-printed cotton dramatically change colours upon contact with water. So I watched the leaves, petals and chevron stripes transform from bright blue to rani pink and vermillion to eggplant purple. I came away in awe of this ancient and stunning craft which happens to be the oldest method of textile printing in the world.

While you’ll find block prints on sheer curtains, handcrafted footwear and even bridal lehengas, this craft is especially popular for the summer loungewear sets we don in the blistering months of the Indian summer. For generations, Indian women have worn cotton block prints to stay cool. This season, the traditional salwar kurta has been revamped as a contemporary co-ord set. It’s taken the form of relaxed trousers with oversized shirts, knotted shirts with shorts, crop tops with flared skirts and even the simple (but ridiculously cosy) pyjama style. As we stay home to keep India safe, sport a summer co-ord set to be comfortable and easy in your work-from-home routine without compromising on style. 

1. WhySoBlueLove: This shorts and shirt summer set works well for a weekday meeting or virtual hang with friends. The unusual plum colour and knotted-front detail give the ensemble a stylish edge. Pair with sneakers or a fun headband. @whysobluelove

2. Tokree: Jaipur-based designer Sanyukta Singh is known for her eye-catching kurta sets, and her latest Positano collection transports you to Italy’s Amalfi coast. The Porticia trouser co-ord set celebrates Rajasthan’s craft traditions and also delivers Positano’s glam quotient. It’s apt for a home celebration, or just for days when you want to feel and look good. @tokreeshopjaipur

3. Pinklay: We’ve all had days when we’ve cooked up a storm or cleaned furiously or ticked off a list of pending tasks. For those days, Pinklay’s Blue Pea culotte set works perfectly. It’s roomy enough for a yoga class too. @pinklayindia

4. The Summer House: When you’re staying in on weekends but want to get in the mood for some drinks and music, bring out this block-printed twinset from Summer House. The label is known for its timeless clothing, and this trouser set is a wardrobe investment because it works well together or even as elegant separates. @thesummerhouse.in

5. Āroka: This monochrome co-ord set uses discharge block-printing technique and the unusual pattern is inspired by the grain of wood in trees. It can be worn three ways: button up for a work meeting with the comfortable bottoms or sport the overlay as a dress by itself. You can also add a  crop top and wear it open at an intimate gathering .@arokaofficial

6. Gulaal: The Jasmine skirt co-ord set has been inspired by an Italian summer. The feminine cut and minimalistic print make this a stylish outfit for a little weekend brunch or zoom date with your girlfriends. @gulaalindia

7. Eka: Inspired by the quiet days of quarantine, Eka’s SS21 summer loungewear collection uses primarily block print but also appliqué and intricate embroidered details. The motifs used are inspired by everyday objects like houseplants, books, tea and music. This pastel trouser co-ord set makes a comfortable work-from-home attire and also works for running errands in the neighbourhood. @ekaco

8. Stitch: Their basic pyjama-style co-ord sets come in attractive combinations like mint + fuchsia, or teal and grey. The label customises styles and sizes, and also has a summer loungewear range for kids. @stitchjpr

9. Punit Balana: Balana is known for his love for block-printing techniques. This sharp co-ord set works well for an important meeting or webinar—you can simply take off the jacket and relax in the T-shirt for the rest of the day. @punitbalanaofficial

10. Blanche: Blanche’s Kimono co-ord sets include a cami, shorts and kimono overlay. Sleep in your cami and shorts and throw on the kimono for breakfast in bed or early morning Zoom school. @blancejaipur

Also read:

28 Indian labels you can buy block printed pieces from

7 Indian labels to know about if you love wearing kaftans

36 online shops and designer stores you can buy chikankari ensembles from