Growing up in India, many of us carry a deep affection for our small towns. Amid the rush of modern life and big dreams, we often long for the quiet charm of simpler days, unhurried mornings, mindful meals, and the soulful rhythm of slow living. There’s a timeless poetry in the warmth of community, the scent of home-cooked food, and the stillness we now crave in a world that rarely pauses. Fashion designer Divyam Mehta captures the essence of such introspective stillness in his latest collection, Still Waters, a reflection of the pace and quality of life in small towns across South Asia.
“The collection draws inspiration from South Asian contemporary art, tribal rugs, and nautical stripes, which have been reinterpreted into mundu skirts, oversized jackets, gilets, pyjama trousers, tops, and layered tunics,” explains Divyam. He chose the name Still Waters because it evokes a sense of calm, poise, and introspection, much like the stillness of backwaters or the unhurried life of a quiet town. Sharing a personal experience with us, he says, “My time in Kerala, where I immersed myself in Ayurveda and local culture, played a significant role in shaping this collection. The mood is about embracing simplicity, depth, and mindfulness — qualities that small towns naturally embody.”
Still Waters has an interesting colour palette, including pink sand, coal black, soft ivory, and earthy sand. A dash of turmeric yellow lends warmth, while hints of blue surface only in select denim pieces. Going further, Divyam shares, “Some of the most unique design elements in this collection include kantha stitch embroidery, which adds texture and weight, and the reimagination of certain traditional outfits.”
Since the designer’s work has always been rooted in artisanal craftsmanship, Still Waters isn’t any different. He says, “We collaborated with weavers from Phulia, West Bengal, who specialise in kantha stitch and handwoven textiles. We also worked with craft clusters in Kutch and Kumaon in Uttarakhand to procure silk and cotton weaves, as well as weavers in Kerala through Save The Loom (a social impact organisation) to integrate the region’s cotton handloom into the collection.”
The campaign for Still Waters was shot in Fort Kochi, Kerala, a place that embodies the collection’s slow, meditative essence. The cobbled streets, tranquil backwaters, and the blend of heritage with modernity made it the perfect setting. “It aimed at reflecting the collection’s seamless flow with its surroundings, embracing both tradition and contemporary elegance. Through the imagery, we wanted to highlight the ease, grace, and timeless beauty of simple living,” says Divyam.
Still Waters is light, breathable, and fluid, making it ideal for summer. Divyam suggests, “Designed for versatility, the pieces transition effortlessly across occasions, be it daywear, workwear, casual outings, festive gatherings, or resort escapes.”
Prices start at Rs 15,000. Available online.
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