Nagaland, tge northeastern Indian state, is a shopper’s paradise

The Indigenous histories of the mountainous Indian state of Nagaland, located in the north and bordering Myanmar, are well reflected in the trinkets and treats intrepid travellers return home with. These lands have witnessed ancient ceremonies, modern conflict and myriad peoples come and go, each leaving their impressions. Textile labels create one-of-a-kind pieces just as suited to gallery spaces as plush chaise lounges; weavers craft intricate mekhalas (draped dresses) and shawls using traditional methods; dazzling contemporary jewellery utilises materials native to the land. There’s something waiting to tempt every jetsetting shopaholic – as our insider’s guide proves.

Heirloom Naga

Founded in 1993 by Jesmina Zeliang, Heirloom Naga is among the state’s best-known textile labels, working directly with local tribeswomen to produce handloomed fabrics from natural fibres. The brand’s range has expanded over the years from linens and cushions to bags, trays, display bowls, fans and, most recently, wall tapestries for galleries. In 2023, the Heirloom Naga Centre opened in Dimapur with a shop, studio, café and guesthouse, which created a physical space for folk to collaborate.

Address: Bishop’s House, Hussain Building, Before, Dimapur, Nagaland 797117, India
Website: heirloomnaga.com

Outfit by Otsü Clothing CoOtsü / Asenla Jamir

Otsü Clothing Co

Founder Asenla Jamir’s brand, launched in 2020, upcycles Western clothes with Naga textiles, such as shirting upgraded with colourful woven hems or vintage pencil skirts with loomed cotton pockets. Notable pieces include a men’s Dior shirt transformed with a hand-woven corset belt into a one-of-a-kind womenswear creation.

Website: otsuclothingco.in

Runway Nagaland

In 2011, Nengneithem Hengna left her corporate career to launch jewellery label Runway Nagaland-Goulu, taking inspiration from the region’s Indigenous tribes. Her work uses locally made beads as well as natural materials such as shells. Hengna has since expanded, now selling woven bamboo basket bags, colourful handloomed totes and wooden sculptures and statues sourced from throughout the state, all sold via her online platform. The Banana Co range of banana-fibre handbags is a standout – each one is unique, hand-woven and made entirely from natural materials.

Address: Thilixu Rd, near Assam rifle camp, Thilixu, Full Nagarjan, Dimapur, Nagaland 797112, India
Website: runwayindia.in

Kintem clothingKekhriezalie Keretsu of SSAJIN STUDIO

Kintem

Clothing label Kintem’s name translates to “communities” in the Ao-Naga dialect, and the business has the state’s tradition of sartorial storytelling at the core of its ethos. Founder Moala Longchar employs a network of weavers throughout Nagaland to create modern mekhalas (draped dresses) and shawls using traditional methods, including the stitching together of loinloomed panels. The brand is known for geometric shapes, indigo dye, tassels and cowrie shells.