Hey everyone!
So, I have to share something that just arrived and completely brightened my week. If you’ve been following me for a while, you know I have a soft spot for Indian crafts, especially handlooms and traditional textiles. And you might remember me raving about a certain gorgeous grey Chikankari kurta set I got last year from a website called iTokri. Well, guess what? I did it again! And this time, it’s a little piece of everyday comfort that feels just as special.
A Love Affair that Started with Chikankari
Remember that Gray Chikankari kurta? That wasn’t just clothing; it felt like wearing a story. I remember browsing itokri.com for the first time, just drawn in by the sheer volume of beautiful things. When I saw that Lucknowi embroidery grey kurta set I was convinced to buy it. Chikankari has always fascinated me. It feels so delicate yet intricate. The pictures on the site were great, showing the detail but holding it in my hands after it arrived was something else entirely. That experience really cemented my love for traditional Indian wear and opened my eyes to how platforms like iTokri are making these treasures accessible.
Why iTokri? The Heart Behind the Handicrafts
Now when I was looking for something new to add to my wardrobe, something comfortable and stylish for everyday, my mind instantly went back to iTokri. Why? Because they aren’t just another online store selling clothes. They’re India’s first crafts store, working directly with artisans. Launched way back in 2012, they operate on this cool, fully integrated model, which means they hold all their own inventory right there at their base in Gwalior. This isn’t drop-shipping; they meticulously handle every single product. It gives me confidence that what I see is what I’ll get, and that it’s truly authentic and high-quality handmade stuff. They proudly say they’re the only crafts and loom retailer with a 100% inventory of handmade artisanal products. That’s a big deal in a world dominated by fast fashion.
Their whole mission resonates deeply with me. They’re connecting us, the customers, with the “essence of craftsmanship” from literally every corner of India. It feels like they’re on a mission to help save the fragmented handicrafts and handloom industry from getting lost in the noise of mass production. Their philosophy, “With Love” (“Pyaar se dekho and pyaar se khareedo”), isn’t just a cute tagline; you really feel it in their approach. They source everything with such care and respect – for the artisan, the craft, and us, the customers. And their tagline, “Crafts for Everyday Life 😊”, well, that’s exactly what I was looking for this time!
The Hunt for My Next Treasure
Scrolling through their website is an experience in itself. They have so much stuff – over 100,000 unique items across hundreds of categories, with new things added daily! Apparel, home decor, jewellery, stationery… it’s like a massive, beautifully curated treasure chest. I was specifically looking at their “iTokri Casuals” section this time, which is dedicated to handcrafted casual wear. That’s where I found it – the piece I knew I needed.
My Latest Find: The Red Linen Cotton Co-Ord Set
I wanted something simple, comfortable, but still with that touch of quality and craftsmanship that I know iTokri delivers. This co-ord set just screamed effortless style. The description said it was made from an “exquisite linen viscose cotton blend,” promising both style and comfort. It also mentioned “100% Natural Fibre Linen,” which sounded perfect for breathable, comfortable everyday wear. It’s a beautiful, solid red – classic and versatile. Even though it’s a ‘Plain Solid Textile’ in terms of craft, the beauty is in the quality of the fabric and the simplicity that lets the material shine.
One thing to note with this set is that it’s a “made-to-order” piece. I actually love this! It means they stitch it specifically for you after you place the order. It takes a little longer (they mention 5-7 working days to stitch and dispatch), but it feels more personal, like it’s being created just for you. Once dispatched, they said it would take about 4-6 days to reach me, and true to their word, it arrived promptly. Plus, they offer free shipping on orders over Rs. 500 within India, which is always a bonus. And they even offset carbon emissions from delivery and packaging – how cool is that?
A Parcel Wrapped with Love
Speaking of packaging… this is one of my favourite parts of the iTokri experience. Remember how I mentioned the unboxing was a delight last time? This time was no different, maybe even better because I knew what little touches to expect. The parcel arrived, and it wasn’t just some generic plastic bag. It came in their special recycled paper box with the iTokri label. Inside, everything was neatly wrapped in recycled newspaper, secured with their unique iTokri lac seal. It just feels so thoughtful and aligned with their “Earth-Friendly” philosophy.
But the absolute best part? The personal touch. I found a handwritten note on a piece of recycled paper inside the box. Although It’s a simple gesture, but it makes you feel so valued. And there was a little surprise gift too. A beautiful handmade trinket! It’s become an iTokri ritual since 2012, a small, lovely token added to every order and it truly warms my heart every single time. It’s these little things that make shopping with them such a joy and make me feel connected to the people behind the brand and the crafts. They even greet you with “Hello ji!” and say they’re always up for “chai and chit-chat,” which tells you everything about their warm approach to customer care.
The Verdict: Fit, Fabric, and Feel
Trying on the co-ord set was just as satisfying as receiving the parcel. It felt really comfortable and soft. The shirt has front buttons which makes it easier to wear. The fabric is a linen-cotton blend which is very soft. It just feels lovely to wear around the house or even dressing up slightly with some accessories. I ordered my usual size, referring to their detailed size charts (which are super helpful, by the way, giving measurements for everything from length and chest to waist and hip for both the top and bottom, across all sizes from XS to 6XL!). It fit perfectly but it’s great to know they offer complimentary alteration services for stitched garments too – though if you opt for that you can’t return it, which is fair enough. Their hassle-free 7-day return policy is reassuring if needed but honestly, with my experience so far I doubt I’ll ever need to use it.
A Purchase that Empowers
What makes this purchase, and all my purchases from iTokri feel so good is knowing the story behind them. This isn’t just a red co-ord set; it’s a product of someone’s skill and livelihood. iTokri works directly with over 500 artisan families across India, giving them due credit and ensuring they benefit directly. Whenever you buy from them, directly or indirectly you are supporting these incredible artists and helping to keep traditional crafts alive. It’s also great to know that 70% of their workforce are local women from Gwalior and 95% of their overall team are women from economically backward backgrounds. iTokri Co-founder Jia Pamnani actively encourages their independence and growth. It feels good to support a brand that supports its people and its heritage so strongly. They truly are artisan-first.
My Final Thoughts
So, there you have it. Another delightful and meaningful purchase from iTokri. From my first grey Chikankari treasure that became a wardrobe staple to this wonderfully comfortable red co-ord set for everyday life, iTokri consistently delivers on quality, authenticity and a shopping experience that feels personal and impactful. It’s more than just buying clothes or home goods, it’s about connecting with India’s rich artisanal heritage, supporting incredible talent and bringing a little bit of “Crafts for Everyday Life” into my own world.
If you appreciate handmade and authentic products and you are someone who love supporting Indian artisans, you absolutely have to check out iTokri. I’m already eyeing my next potential treasure on their site!
Have you ever bought anything from iTokri? Or do you have a favourite Indian craft you love? Let me know in the comments below!
Lots of love,
Meenakshi ✨
