In an era where sustainability is increasingly shaping the fashion industry, lotus fibres are emerging as a remarkable solution, blending age-old traditions with contemporary design. These fibres, once primarily used in Southeast Asian textiles, are making a notable comeback, transforming into modern fashion staples like sarees, kaftans, and scarves. The result is a unique fusion of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge design, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic fabrics that dominate the industry today. “Wearing garments made from lotus fibres is like wearing a piece of art that’s been crafted with care and respect for the Earth. The fabric feels light, breathable, and has an elegance that’s hard to replicate with synthetic materials,” says Shreya Ghodawat, Sustainability Strategist and Climate Activist.
Lotus time
Lotus fibres, harvested from the stems of the lotus plant, are celebrated for their natural sheen, distinct texture, and eco-friendly properties. What sets lotus fibres apart is their combination of aesthetic appeal and green credentials — they are biodegra-dable, renewable, and require minimal chemicals during cultivation and processing. The journey of lotus fibres from plant to fabric is a labor of love. The process begins with the careful extraction of fibres from the lotus stems. This is followed by soaking, hand-extraction, and spinning into yarn. The final threads are woven into fabric using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. This meticulous process results in a material that is as durable as it is beautiful, with a soft, breathable quality that makes it ideal for a variety of garments.
Tradition to Trend
Historically, lotus fibres have been woven into textiles that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Southeast Asia. These garments, often used in ceremonial and religious contexts, were valued for their lightweight, breathable qualities and their ability to maintain a natural sheen without the need for synthetic finishes. Today, designers are reimagining this age-old material, creating modern sarees, kaftans, and scarves that pay homage to their roots while embracing contemporary fashion trends.
Lotus fibre sarees are gaining popularity for their elegant drape and sophisticated sheen. The lightweight ensures that these sarees are comfortable to wear, even in warmer climates. Similarly, kaftans made from lotus fibres are not only stylish but also exceptionally comfortable. Scarves crafted from lotus fibres offer a touch of luxury and sustainability. A versatile accessory that complements a wide range of styles.
The Craft
The process of creating garments from lotus fibres is a labour-intensive process. After the outer layer of the stem is stripped away, the inner core is soaked and carefully scraped to extract the fibres. These fibres are then dried and spun into threads, a process that can take several hours to days depending on the quantity of fibre. The threads are finally woven into fabric using traditional techniques, resulting in a material that is not only beautiful but also durable and eco-friendly.
Creating a saree from lotus fibres is no small feat — it requires around 400 to 500 lotus flowers to produce enough fibre for a single saree. This labour-intensive process not only highlights the craftsmanship involved but also underscores the value of the final product. “They are durable but require proper care to maintain their resilience, as they can be more delicate than some other fabrics. The fibres are breathable, soft, and moisture-wicking, contributing to exceptional comfort,” says Gautam Gupta, Creative Director at GG by Asha Gautam.
Fibres in Fashion
While lotus fibres offer a sustainable alternative to traditional materials, they are not without challenges. The production process is time-consuming, which can limit the availability of lotus fibre garments and drive up costs. Also, the durability of lotus fibres can vary. Consumers need to take extra care to maintain the longevity of their garments.
By increasing collaboration with artisans and advancing processing technologies, the hope is to enhance scalability and reduce costs, making lotus fibres more accessible and widely available. As Gupta notes, “With the right support and innovation, lotus fibres can become more affordable.”
As the fashion industry looks for more sustainable options, rose lotus fibres are stepping into the spotlight. This blend of tradition, sustainability, and style makes rose lotus fibres an exciting choice for today’s fashion. “Creating rose lotus yarns is a hands-on, labour-intensive process that not only provides jobs for artisans but also adds a deep sense of craftsmanship to the fabric,” explains Gupta.
Bringing rose lotus fibres into modern fashion isn’t just about honouring tradition — it’s also a big step toward a more sustainable future. As more designers and consumers discover this unique material, rose lotus fibres are set to play a major role in fashion, proving that being eco-friendly doesn’t mean sacrificing style. “The misconception that sustainability is a luxury needs to be challenged. Consumers need to know that when they choose fabrics like lotus fibres, they’re not just buying a product; they’re making a statement, supporting a movement towards a more ethical and sustainable future,” expresses Ghodawat.
While challenges like labour-intensive production, limited availability, and varying durability exist, rose lotus fibres are making a positive impact on sustainable fashion. Lotus fibres are not just a trend — they are a testament to the possibilities of sustainable fashion blooming!
