SHIM Collection: Weaving a Sustainable Future for Tradition and Environment launched

SHIM, home in Tangkhul dialect, is a debut collection by Easternlight Zimik’s brand, EAST.

In a world where fast fashion has taken center stage, the significance of preserving traditional weaving techniques and supporting local artisans has never been more critical. Easternlight Zimik’s debut collection SHIM under the brand name EAST is not just a collection of garments, but a journey towards revitalizing and uplifting both the weavers and the environment.

At the heart of SHIM lies Zimik’s dream to build a system that empowers weavers, showcasing their skills to the world while creating an infrastructure to safeguard traditional weaving techniques. In the face of challenges that threaten these age-old crafts, Zimik’s collection emerges as a beacon of hope, combining innovation with craftsmanship to create unique pieces that transcend time.

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One of the key pillars of the SHIM collection is its commitment to sustainability. As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, Zimik recognizes the need to reconsider our lifestyles and their impact on the environment. The fashion industry, known for its pollution and waste, has found a refreshing perspective in Zimik’s collection. By breathing new life into unsold products through recycling and redesigning, “Shim” emphasizes the value of repurposing and reimagining, showcasing how beauty can arise from sustainability.

Easternlight Zimik’s vision as a digital artist and fashion designer, extends beyond fashion, encompassing a broader lifestyle brand that will also include home furnishings in the near future. The collection aims to represent the vibrant culture of the North East, shedding light on the potential of weavers from the region while offering a platform for collaboration among creative minds. By fostering an environment of unity and shared creativity, EAST’s ambition is to establish a space where innovation and tradition can coexist harmoniously.

SHIM is more than just a collection of garments; it’s an embodiment of identity and community. Through clothing, music, and the visual arts, the collection delves into the essence of who we are as individuals and as a society. It challenges preconceived notions of traditional clothing, making mekhala/ traditional wrap around more accessible to younger generations. What was once seen as formal attire is now being celebrated as a powerful fashion statement, promoting cultural pride and heritage.

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The power of SHIM lies not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in its social impact. By supporting indigenous weavers and generating economic opportunities, Zimik’s collection creates a win-win situation for both artisans and consumers. It’s a reminder that fashion can be a force for good, capable of making positive changes that extend far beyond aesthetics.

In an era where environmental consciousness and cultural preservation are of paramount importance, “Shim” serves as a testament to the transformative potential of art, fashion, and collaboration. Easternlight Zimik’s journey, as exemplified by the EAST brand, sets an inspiring precedent for a more sustainable and inclusive future. Through weaving together tradition, innovation, and environmental responsibility, “Shim” paves the way for a harmonious coexistence between humans, their heritage, and the planet we share.

“SHIM is a collection born out of my desire to start my dream to build a system to enable our weavers to show their skills to the world which will in turn uplift their lives and strengthen them economically. While doing so, infrastructures to preserve our traditional weaving technique will be build,” said Zimik.

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The collection is also a step to innovate in our textiles and explore different skills of craftsmanship in our place and use in different mediums. The collection intends to explore more of us as a community and of our identity through our ways of clothing, music, landscape and creativity. The collection intends to make KASHAN (mekhala/ wraparound) more acceptable to the younger generation to breakthrough the mentality of wearing it only on formal occasions and enable it to use it more as an occasion wear. The intention is to use it as an everyday fashion statement by proudly showing our identity, the uniqueness and power of our KASHAN, the young designer added.

Easternlight Zimik says climate change, garment and fashion industry has affected the environment adversely. “It is high time we introspect our lifestyle to help reduce the pollution on our environment. The used-clothes business is an important part of our community due to quality and economy besides many other reasons. The indiscriminate dumping of the unsold used-clothes has been polluting our environment too. With a strong believe in recycled garments and products I started the recycling journey by collecting the unsold products and redesign them using different embroidery techniques, patchwork, etc. and reproduce it as one single unique product to the market,” Zimik said.

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