Weaving a story of lost love
As the warmth of summer approaches, heritage textile label Istri Vastra has introduced a refreshing new chapter with the launch of its latest clothing range alongside the opening of its second store in Lajpat Nagar. The collection celebrates breathable fabrics, versatile silhouettes and the enduring appeal of Indian textiles.
Spread across an inviting retail space, the new store brings together the label’s signature womenswear collections along with the debut of its menswear extension, iVastra. The summer range highlights clothing designed for both everyday comfort and festive elegance. For women, the collection features a vibrant assortment of unstitched suits, dupattas, sarees, fabrics and lehengas, drawing inspiration from timeless Indian crafts such as Bandhani, Kantha and Warli-inspired motifs.
The newly introduced menswear line, iVastra, expands the brand’s aesthetic into a thoughtfully curated range for men. The collection includes shirts, kurtas, shurtas, bandhgala jackets and custom-made sherwanis, offering styles that move seamlessly from family gatherings to celebratory occasions. Designed with comfort and understated elegance in mind, the garments reflect a philosophy of heritage clothing that feels natural and accessible in modern life.
Leading the menswear initiative is Vaani Arora, who represents the next generation of the family behind the brand. Having grown up surrounded by textiles and design conversations, she brings a fresh perspective while remaining deeply rooted in the cultural values that have shaped the label for more than three decades. Her vision for iVastracentres on creating menswear that honours Indian tradition while adapting to the rhythms of contemporary lifestyles.
The launch evening transformed the store into more than just a fashion showcase. Guests were welcomed into an immersive cultural experience that blended clothing with storytelling traditions. A special baithak-style session titled “Qisse aur Sur” recreated the evocative atmosphere of classical dastangoi, where stories, music and memory intertwined. Led by singer and senior journalist Abhilasha Ojha, the performance brought alive narratives that echoed the spirit of heritage, much like the textiles themselves.
