The newly launched Banana Bark Bags brings together unique elements, local materials, and crafts, while also incorporating contemporary design for a modern look.

The new collection brings together bold weaves and aesthetics to create a visually appealing and attractive set of bags. Celebrating nature, the banana bark stems, forming the primary ingredient of the bags, present unique natural textures and hues that are naturally developed from the scorching sun, the rain and the wind.

Every bag is exclusive, featuring different weaving patterns and textures that accentuate the bags to be versatile by going beyond the traditional styles and adding a fresh, modern aesthetic look to the bags.

Banking on the principles of circular design symbolizing the brand’s motto of being earth friendly and responsible, the bags are tried and tested for their longevity and usage across seasons. Moreover, the Banana Bark Bags combine banana bark with Cork, another sustainable bio leather and other locally sourced materials such as the Ilkal fabric and is embellished in seeds.

Speaking about the launch of the newly designed range of Banana Bark bags, Supriya Shirsat Satam, Founder, CEO & Creative Director, FOReT, voiced, “We are excited to introduce our latest collection, building upon the overwhelming response to our first edition of Banana Bark bags. Our new line showcases the utilization of renewable and biodegradable materials derived from the outer layers of banana plant stems that are typically discarded. Through meticulous research, material testing, and innovative design, we have crafted Banana Bark Bags as an elegant and long-lasting option for environmentally conscious individuals. These bags embody sustainability, contribute to local communities, and boast a contemporary aesthetic that appeals to the preferences of today’s fashion-forward consumers. By integrating distinctive designs and combining local materials with traditional craftsmanship, our new collection of Banana Bark Bags presents a fresh and contemporary approach to sustainable fashion.”

Notably, the production of Banana Bark Bags involves collaborations with local artisans and communities which in turn translate into promoting social responsibility and contributing to the economic well-being of the communities involved. The production of Banana Bark Bags provides women artisans with opportunities for skill development, empowerment, and economic independence. By engaging in the production process, these artisans can contribute to their households’ income and gain financial stability.

The current bestseller in the Banana Bark Collection at FoReT is Iconic Bracelet cum Bag – The shoulder pad made from Cork in the Iconic Banana Bag can be removed and can be separately used as a bracelet. Both products can be used independently and are elegant inherently.

Interestingly, the bags are biodegradable, thus after a long use, one can also use them as a bio planter.

FoReT’s collection includes a range of clutches, laptop sleeves, tote bags and an evening bag. The Banana Bark Collection designed by Supriya, a sustainable advocate, is a blend of style and consciousness. 

With a deep appreciation for nature’s complexity and uniqueness, she endeavors to design products that capture and convey its essence while supporting women artisans and supporting local crafts. By seamlessly blending traditional craftsmanship with modern lifestyles, she aims to ensure that the essence of these age-old traditions remains relevant and cherished in today’s world. 

How was Ed-a-Mamma born?

Alia (Bhatt) has always been conscious of the environment and has been promoting conservation through her NGO Co-Exist for a while now. She wanted to take this idea forward by inculcating in children, a love for the planet. We identified a gap in the kids wear segment and Ed-a-Mamma was launched as a sustainable kids wear brand.

Ed-a-Mamma is strongly content-driven and pegged on story telling. Our aim is to constantly talk to kids and their parents about an alternate lifestyle that is sustainable. Kids are the flag bearers of the future and through our clothing line we aim to raise a new generation of mini planeteers.

What sets it apart from its competition?

Ed-a-Mamma is a conscious clothing brand. Our entire range of apparel is made of natural fibres and responsibly sourced. When we think of sustainable clothing, the first thing that comes to mind is expensive clothing in subtle hues. We have broken this stereotype by making Ed-a-Mamma accessible to a wider consumer base. Our range of apparel is vibrant and fun for kids with our signature prints. We work on a larger scale and are able to pass the benefits of the same to our consumers.

How do you incorporate sustainability into the garments?

All our garments are made from natural fibres, our buttons are made of wood, coconut shells and are plastic free, dyes used are AZO free and completely safe for children. We do not use plastic in any form through the entire manufacturing process, our packaging is made of corn starch and is home biodegradable.

Furthermore, our tags have bookmarks that can be used by children, every garment has a little potli made of recycled fabric that has a seedball with instructions on how to plant a tree.

In addition, we work with SEDEX-approved factories and ensure that fair trade practices are adopted. Last year, we launched a line of green denims that have zero liquid discharge and the chemicals used are safe for the environment. Sustainability is at the core of Ed-a-Mamma.

What have been the biggest hurdles you have faced so far?

Last year, when due to a shortage of cotton yarn, we faced challenges in sourcing fabric at reasonable prices. Our sourcing team however worked hard and optimised the supply chain to maintain costs.

Tell us about retail strategy.

Ed-a-Mamma is pegged on story telling. Being a content driven brand we have always used this as our USP along with our product range to constantly engage with our audience. We have a free give away every month that is engaging and fun for kids. We work on more width and currently have 1600 + options as a part of our range.

Given that India is a price-sensitive market, what challenges do you foresee?

We have always been clear that Ed-a-Mamma needs to be brand that is accessible to a wider consumer base. Our range starts at Rs 499 and is well-priced. We do not take an up charge for being sustainable and that has helped scale up the brand in a short span of time. The fluctuations in yarn prices are a major challenge we face.

Where do you see the brand in the next 5 years?

We have a vision to make Ed-a-Mamma a one-stop-shop for both mums and kids. We aim to target mums from conception till the kids reach their teens. We are launching new categories and exploring newer markets.

The interview was first published in the December issue of Images Business of Fashion.