Khadi Fabric: Eco-Friendly Khadi Clothing for Women & Men - Upcycleluxe

Khadi fabric is not just a cloth, but a symbol of artisan pride and self-reliance, and is one of the preferred fabrics for sustainable fashion. Earlier, khadi was synonymous with kurtas and Nehru jackets that were especially worn by freedom fighters and political leaders daily, and the laymen wore it on festivals.

In recent years many Indian sustainable brands are using khadi to create stunning eco-friendly clothing like khadi dresses, khadi co-ords, designer khadi shirts, to name a few. Upcycleluxe, India's first carbon-neutral online sustainable marketplace, is the best place to buy eco-friendly clothing made using Khadi fabric.

With Indian and global consumers demanding eco-friendly clothing and organic fabrics, Khadi stands out because of its handwoven and low-carbon-emission processes. Indian sustainable brands and designer labels are now positioning Khadi fabric as a premium and ethical textile. In this blog, we explore Khadi's Indian origins, its overall growth, and its various applications in the fashion industry.

Table of Contents

1) What Is Khadi Fabric?

2) Khadi’s Indian Connection

3) Khadi’s Phenomenal Industry Figures in 2025

4) Upcycleluxe x Khadi: Bringing Eco-Friendly Fashion to Your Doorstep

5) Eco-Friendly Clothing, Lifestyle Products & Accessories Made from Khadi

6) Comparison: Khadi vs Synthetic Fabrics

7) FAQs on Khadi Fabric

8) Conclusion

1) What Is Khadi Fabric?

Khadi is a hand-spun and hand-woven fabric made using wool, cotton, or silk. A spinning wheel, called a "charkha,” is used to weave this fabric. It is not just a textile but a symbol of India's freedom struggle under Gandhiji's "Swadeshi Movement." It is associated with the spirit of self-reliance and India's rich cultural heritage.

Owing to its manual process (hand-spun), it requires less energy and minimal chemical dependence, and is a transparent and sustainable process. These qualities of Khadi entice brands to experiment with Khadi fabric and create innovative and eco-friendly modern clothing. It also aids rural livelihoods, thus maintaining the circular economy.

2) Khadi’s Indian Connection

Khadi is linked to the Indus Valley civilization, where hand-spun and handwoven textiles existed. This eco-friendly fabric gained prominence when Mahatma Gandhi promoted it as a symbol of Swadeshi (self-reliance). During the Indian freedom struggle, Khadi became a prominent tool and was used widely to boycott British goods.

It not only helped in the freedom struggle but also empowered rural communities who started using charkha, which was again promoted by the father of our nation. This led to economic empowerment and unity for the rural artisan community, and Khadi soon became a powerful icon carving its own cultural identity in textiles.

3) Khadi’s Phenomenal Industry Figures in 2025

The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) in FY2025 reported a record turnover of $20 billion, a staggering ₹1.70 lakh crore! This showcases the wide usage of Khadi over the last decade. Interestingly, production, sales, and employment have increased by 447%, 347%, and 49.23 %, respectively. Since 2013-2014 this surge in the usage of Khadi has portrayed a growing consumer preference for
eco-friendly clothing and accessories made from Khadi.

4) Upcycleluxe x Khadi: Bringing Eco-Friendly Fashion to Your Doorstep

Upcycleluxe- India's first carbon-neutral online sustainable marketplace is the best place to discover authentic Khadi clothing for women and men. We showcase Khadi clothing and accessories from certified Indian sustainable brands for conscious consumers. Through this the brands and the artisans involved are benefited and their Khadi products are showcased to a large audience. The main aim is to make
Khadi products and other eco-friendly products from 100+ brands easily discoverable and accessible right at your fingertips.

5) Eco-Friendly Clothing, Lifestyle Products & Accessories Made from Khadi

The eco-friendly fabric Khadi is not only limited to clothing; it is also used in many other eco-friendly lifestyle products. From everyday wear to bedding and belts to handbags, brands are widely using it to cater to the needs of conscious consumers. Its versatile nature appeals to both traditional and modern consumers in India and around the world.

Some of the eco-friendly fashion and lifestyle categories Khadi is used in are as follows:

• Khadi Clothing: Owing to its breathable and durable qualities, Khadi is being used to craft stylish eco-friendly clothing such as shirts, kurtas, jackets, sarees, and women's dresses that are suitable for all occasions.
• Khadi Home Décor & Lifestyle Products: This eco-friendly fabric’s earthy aesthetics and natural textures make it perfect for crafting eye-catching and comfortable cushions, bedsheets, and towels.
• Khadi Accessories: Merging artisan craftsmanship with modern fashion trends, Khadi is used to craft eco-friendly accessories such as belts, handbags, tote bags, and scarves.

6) Comparison: Khadi vs Synthetic Fabrics

7) FAQs on Khadi Fabric

• What is Khadi fabric made from?

Khadi fabric is traditionally made using natural fibers from cotton, wool, and silk. Using a charkha (spinning wheel), it is hand-spun into yarn and then hand-woven on a traditional loom.

• Is Khadi only for traditional and ethnic wear?

No. Indian sustainable brands are using Khadi to make slick jackets, trousers, western dresses, casual shirts, and Indian ethnic wear.

• Can Khadi be used in all seasons?

Yes, Khadi's natural breathability and adaptability qualities makes it suitable for all seasons. Cotton Khadi is perfect for summer as it is airy and light, and Khadi silk and Khadi wool clothing provide warmth.

• Where can I buy authentic Khadi products online?

You can authentic women's Khadi dresses, women's Khadi co-ord sets, men's Khadi shirts, women's khadi skirts, and khadi jackets at Upcycleluxe.

Conclusion

Khadi is no longer a fabric of the past; it has evolved from being a symbol of India's rich heritage to a global icon of eco-friendly fashion. Its distinct handwoven patterns, sustainable manufacturing process, and durability make it a must-have in your wardrobe. Explore eco- friendly clothing like stylish women's Khadi dresses to men's Khadi shirts at Upcycleluxe and propagate sustainable living.