Published on December 11th, 2024 | by Dr. Jerry Doby

Sukalp Bhatija Blends Ancient Craft with Contemporary Design Innovation in Sustainable Fashion

Trends that disappear almost as soon as they arrive drive the fashion industry. Sukalp Bhatija offers an alternative that values tradition, craftsmanship, and sustainability. Her label, Sukushine, is built on a commitment to slow fashion and cultural preservation, drawing inspiration from the rich textile heritage of South Asia while empowering women artisans.

However, Sukalp’s work extends beyond simply celebrating the past. She blends traditional handmade techniques with modern innovation, reflecting her belief in fashion as a means to tell stories that bridge time and place.

Born in Delhi and now based in New York, Sukalp’s connection to textiles is deeply personal. Her fascination with Indian textiles began in childhood, admiring the vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and shiny embroidery that defined traditional South Asian garments. At 11, her family’s abrupt move to the United States intensified her longing to connect with her heritage, inspiring her to express her cultural identity through her art and aesthetic choices.

“Sukushine is about more than just fashion,” Sukalp explains. “It’s about storytelling—stories of craft, culture, and the artisans who keep these traditions alive.”

Rooted in Heritage, Empowering Women

Sukalp’s passion for textiles grew as she pursued a bachelor’s degree in Fiber/Textile Arts at the Maryland Institute College of Art and a Master’s degree in Strategic Design & Management at Parsons School of Design. These experiences shaped her design philosophy, combining artistic vision with entrepreneurial strategy.

Sukushine reflects this philosophy by partnering exclusively with women-led, small-batch manufacturers in India. These artisans print the textiles, sew the garments, and collaborate throughout the design process. “Our mission is to empower women and provide a space for them to shine,” Sukalp emphasizes. “It’s reflected in our customers and workers, who are strong women.”

Each piece from Sukushine tells a story of heritage, nostalgia, and sustainability. The garments are created through slow, deliberate processes that prioritize quality and ethics over speed and mass production. Sukalp also highlights the role of these artisans in keeping traditional techniques alive, ensuring they are compensated fairly.

The Challenges of Cultural Expression

As Sukalp strives to modernize South Asian textiles, she has faced challenges, particularly pushback from audiences who view the designs as “too ethnic” or “too colorful.” “Indian culture by definition is maximalist,” Sukalp notes. “The pushback of appearing ‘too ethnic’ can be discouraging, but I hope to connect with people who value vibrant complexity and appreciate the story behind our work.”

Despite this, Sukalp remains committed to showcasing her heritage authentically. “Self-expression through clothing is a great way to connect, build community, and feel a sense of togetherness,” she says.

Melding Tradition with Modern Innovation

While rooted in tradition, Sukushine is far from purist. The brand modernizes traditional textiles by blending old techniques with contemporary aesthetics. Handcrafted elements are reimagined through digital design tools, resulting in unique collections that resonate with today’s consumers.

Sukalp’s innovative approach extends beyond her brand’s visual identity. As a former co-founder of PhygiLab, she explored the intersection of luxury fashion and Web 3.0, integrating blockchain technology and virtual fashion worlds. “We wanted to create a seamless experience where physical and digital worlds coexisted,” she reflects.

Sustainability as a Guiding Principle

The global fashion industry is responsible for nearly 10% of carbon emissions, making Sukalp’s commitment to sustainability both timely and vital. For her, sustainability goes beyond eco-friendly materials; it encompasses a holistic system that respects people, the planet, and the craft.

Sukushine’s collections emphasize longevity, timeless design, and eco-conscious materials such as organic cotton, silk, and linen. The brand minimizes waste in production, opting for small-batch manufacturing to ensure no resources are squandered. “We need to value the hands that make our clothes,” Sukalp asserts.

A Global Perspective with Deep Roots

Sukushine’s ability to navigate both Eastern and Western markets has been key to its success. The label’s bold designs, rooted in South Asian culture, resonate with fashion-forward consumers in New York while appealing to those seeking meaningful connections through their clothing. In 2023, Sukushine’s Rangeen Collection earned critical acclaim at New York Fashion Week for its bold reinterpretation of traditional textiles.

Collaborations and notable appearances further underscore Sukalp’s global reach. Sukushine has dressed celebrities like musicians Rajakumari and Raghav and been featured at New York Fashion Week.

Looking Ahead

Sukalp envisions a bright future for Sukushine and sustainable fashion. She plans to expand her focus on designing textiles and prints for larger brands while continuing to spotlight the artistry of South Asian women artisans.

“The future of fashion is sustainable and personal,” she says. “People want to feel connected to what they’re wearing and know their choices are making a positive impact.”

Through Sukushine, Sukalp Bhatija is doing more than creating clothes—she’s crafting a movement that celebrates tradition while embracing innovation, ensuring the stories of South Asian textiles continue to inspire generations to come.

SHARE ON FACEBOOK SHARE ON TWITTER

About the Author

Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.