Discovering Northeast Indian Textiles with Model Madhulika Sharma
As someone deeply invested in advocating for Northeast Indian culture, New York based Madhulika Sharma’s (@madhulikasharmaa) early immersion into gardening in her hometown Assam served as a means to connect with her rural community. While fashion played a strong role in marrying her two key purposes in life, it was Sharma’s love to sustain, nourish, and preserve the cultural heritage of Northeast India that led to her journey at Yarn Glory (@yarngloryofficial).
Never one to do just one thing at a time, Sharma has walked in New York Fashion Week for Zimmerman, Ralph and Russo, and starred in Dior Cosmetics, KHY, and Skims fashion and beauty campaigns. She started Yarn Glory with her mother in 2004 as a passion project to uplift and celebrate northeast Indian textiles. Balancing her modelling career with her passion for textiles, she ensures that at Yarn Glory, the lively beauty of her hometown and her people receive the recognition they truly deserve.
Below, the multi-hyphenate model reveals her love for fashion, northeastern textiles and her beloved homeland.
Le Mill: What’s the story behind Yarn Glory?
My mother started Yarn Glory in 2004 to preserve Northeast India's weaving traditions and provide jobs for local artisans.
Le Mill: Tell us more about Northeast Indian textiles
Northeast Indian textiles are unique and distinctive. Eri silk, a staple at Yarn Glory, is cruelty-free and comfortable to wear. Kesa Paat (raw silk) is versatile for all seasons and not just for winters, whereas Muga silk is incredibly durable.
Le Mill: How do you incorporate Northeast Indian elements into your personal style?
I enjoy wearing western silhouettes made with local fabrics and throwing on a Yarn Glory scarf. Daniel Syiem's Ryindia textiles are so amazing. And the gorgeous traditional jewellry like Jonbiri, Dhol, and Gaam Kharu made by the women in my family. They're perfect conversation starters!
Le Mill: What are some of your favourite Northeast Indian textiles?
We love Eri silk and its versatility. It blends well with organic cotton and can be dyed naturally. We've also been experimenting with eco-printing and embroidery. The possibilities are endless!
Le Mill: Northeast Indian brands that you love
Atsu Sekhose, Tara Bhuyan, Ura Maku and Umola Collective. I am always on the lookout for more homegrown labels from the region.
Le Mill: Your fashion icons
The legendary Cher for truly being ahead of her time. I like rule benders and boundary pushers. I find it to heavily influence the way I think creatively. I also gravitate towards Dua Lipa's style.
Le Mill: How do you promote sustainable fashion and traditional textiles as a global model?
I collect vintage and thrifted clothes from around the world. And to make it a cyclical process, I sell them on The Real Real. When I can't work with our foundation in person, I focus on outreach and fundraising.
Le Mill: How can we keep Northeast Indian textiles cool and relevant for the next generation?
I believe today's youth has an individual style. But to preserve the textile heritage, we need to innovate while promoting local products. I think there’s a growing appreciation for “slow living”.
Le Mill: A dream collaboration
Gaurav Gupta for Muga/Kesa Paat. And Eri silk would be perfect for a Jacquemus vacation.
