Home JOURNAL Behind the Label | Andraab

Behind the Label | Andraab

Every design has a tale to tell, like the eloquence of a poet, or the ferocity of nature; Andraab strives to bring the rarest of the rare to their handcrafted cashmere pieces. Their designs hold human emotions in every stitch. Andraab was founded in 1996 by three brothers Muzaffar, Mubashir and Muzakir. After three years of meticulous research and planning, Andraab was born and launched its first line of products. Since then, Andraab's unique and exquisite works have found customers across continents.

1. What is the inspiration behind Andraab's designs?

The inspiration behind our designs began with what we saw in nature growing up in Kashmir. As we all began to travel, our life experiences also informed our designs. We married the traditional arts and crafts of Kashmir weaving with a contemporary sensibility that was inspired by our travels.

2. Andraab's is bringing Kashmiri luxury to the world's stage. What is the design process for your handloomed scarfs?

Once we decide on a certain design and color combination for each style, each heirloom quality textile is created by hand from start to finish. We use the finest cashmere fibers and we produce our textiles as they have been for hundreds of years. The creation process, from the procuring of fibers to the cleaning, combing, spinning and finishing on hand looms and finally to the employing of embroidery can take anywhere from 3 weeks to 6 months for the pieces that are featured here. There are some embroidered shawls that can take up to three years to complete.

3. Andraab's prides itself on its rich and often detailed craftsmanship - what is the relationship like between you and the artisans that make your products? How do you blend their products with Western style?

The relationship we have with our weavers is very special. It is a blend of ideas, old and new. They are the experts in an art form that has had a long history in Kashmir. We combine their weaving expertise with our ideas of color combinations and designs. Together we create pieces that are steeped in tradition with designs that are timeless, quality driven and fashion forward.

4. What is your favorite "local secret" about Kashmir?

It is hard to choose one but one of our favorites is a walk up to the famous shrine of Saint Makhdoom Saheb. This is a Saint that is revered by most people of Kashmir. To reach the shrine, you have to walk up many stairs but once at the top, you get a breathtaking view of the entire city of Srinagar.

To shop the Andraab collection, click here.