The essence of Hema
Our journey began in northern India, where we were struck by the rich colours of the region’s textiles and the skill of the local artisans. We spent time with them, learning about their craft, culture and traditions, which left a lasting impression on us. This connection inspired us to create a slow fashion brand that honours their work.
All our pieces are designed and shipped from Portugal and made by artisans in India. We ensure that they work in fair conditions and are paid a fair wage.
In Sanskrit, ‘Hema’ means ‘gold’, symbolising something precious and important. Our brand reflects this by creating garments that are not only beautiful, but also meaningful and cherished. Our mission is to produce ethically, taking responsibility for both the artisans and the materials we use.
Every Hema garment is unique and celebrates the craftsmanship of our artisans. By choosing Hema, you’re supporting a community of talented families and contributing to a more sustainable fashion industry. We produce our pieces on demand or in limited annual collections to minimise waste and reduce environmental impact. Each garment is meticulously crafted, combining traditional methods with modern touches to ensure longevity and timelessness.
Our commitments:
Fair production: We ensure that our artisans receive fair wages and work in safe, ethical conditions.
Quality materials: We use sustainable, high quality, environmentally friendly and hand-coloured materials in all our garments.
Education and awareness: We are committed to promoting sustainability through education and awareness campaigns.
By supporting Hema, you’re joining a movement towards a more conscious and responsible fashion industry. We invite you to become part of our community of like-minded people who value sustainability, quality and timeless style. Follow us on social media, subscribe to our newsletter and thank you for being part of the Hema journey!
FAQ
Who makes our clothes?
Our pieces are handmade by a dedicated group of artisans from Rajasthan in northern India. We’ve developed personal relationships with these talented individuals to ensure they receive a fair wage for their craftsmanship. In many parts of India, artisans often face the challenge of low wages and unstable working conditions. By working directly with our artisans, we not only ensure transparency, but also provide them with stable and fair compensation, which is not always guaranteed in their industry. This direct relationship allows us to understand their needs and work together to create a sustainable and ethical supply chain. It’s more than just business for us; it’s about supporting a community, preserving traditional skills and making a positive impact on the lives of those who bring our designs to life.
How do you color your clothes?
We use natural and eco-friendly dyes to color our fabrics, prioritizing both sustainability and the well-being of our artisans. The process involves extracting pigments from natural sources such as plants, roots, and flowers. These dyes are then carefully applied to the fabrics using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. This ensures that our clothing is not only beautiful but also safe for the environment and those who produce them.
Why is there only one collection a year?
We believe in quality over quantity. To minimize our carbon footprint, we produce a single, carefully curated collection each year. This approach allows us to ship only once from the producer in India to Europe, reducing our environmental impact. All items are then sent from our base in Portugal.
What materials do you use?
Cotton: We use high-quality cotton that is soft, durable, and sustainably sourced.
Silk: Our silk garments are crafted with 80% silk and 20% rayon, blending luxury with comfort.
Upcycled Materials: Whenever possible, we upcycle existing materials, giving them new life in our unique jackets and other pieces.
What is Kantha?
Kantha is a traditional stitching method originating from India. It involves layering old fabrics together and stitching them with small, straight running stitches, creating intricate patterns and textures. This technique not only adds beautiful detail to our garments but also upcycles fabric, contributing to sustainable fashion practices.
Can I return my item?
Yes, you can return your item within 30 days of receiving it.
Do you charge for returns?
Return postage is at your expense unless the item is faulty.
What payment methods do you accept?
Currently, we accept payments exclusively through PayPal. You can pay using your Debit or Credit card via PayPal.
