A New Tradition: The Story Behind SZABO SIHAG
Indian textiles and traditional crafts have always held a deep connection to Szabo Sihag. The brand operates between India and London, weaving these influences into its womenswear by incorporating traditional fabrics and techniques while blending them with contemporary silhouettes and details.
At the heart of SZABO SIHAG lies the belief that heritage is meant to be lived in, not only preserved. Khadi, a hand-spun and handwoven Indian fabric traditionally crafted on a charkha, is a constant presence in every Szabo Sihag creation. Odhanis, which are hand-dyed scarves traditionally worn in Haryana and Rajasthan, are also featured throughout the collections, as is kiran lace, a decorative element commonly found on Indian garments. Both the odhanis and kiran lace are reimagined in new forms, paired with modern tailoring and contemporary silhouettes.
The odhani occupies a special place in SZABO SIHAG's work. In Haryana and Rajasthan, the odhani was once an everyday garment for women, but today it is mostly reserved for weddings and special occasions. The brand incorporates unused odhanis into its collections, transforming and adapting them into garments suited for entirely new contexts. Many of these odhanis had been tucked away in households for years before gaining new life through the brand's collections.
Every piece of cotton used by SZABO SIHAG is khadi, a fabric that holds personal significance for Meghna as well. She vividly recalls watching her grandfather spin cotton on a charkha during her childhood.
Yet the garments themselves do not appear overtly traditional; instead, the artistry is woven subtly throughout. Szabo Sihag experiments with proportions, color, tailoring, and surprising combinations to craft pieces with distinct character. A familiar textile might emerge in an unusual silhouette, or a traditional accent may enliven a modern garment. The clothing feels authentic and grounded, rather than staged.
This thoughtful approach extends to the making of each garment. SZABO SIHAG collaborates with small, independent, family-run workshops throughout India, sourcing nearly 90 percent of its materials locally. Production remains intentionally limited. Many items are left uncut until an order is placed, which helps prevent surplus and provides artisans with more consistent work rather than sporadic, high-volume orders.
The brand is also committed to repurposing overlooked materials. Deadstock is transformed into new garments, accessories, pouches, and packaging.
What sets SZABO SIHAG apart is its approach to heritage, which is not focused on recreating the past but on making it resonate in the present. The fabrics, techniques, and details are already steeped in history; what evolves is how they are used. This is what allows each piece to belong in a modern wardrobe. If you value color, craftsmanship, and narrative, their work deserves your attention.