Kartik Research and Baracuta Intertwine Stories of Heritage, Homelands, and Handicrafts

Upon Kartik Research’s anticipated Paris Fashion Week debut earlier this year, creative director Kartik Kumra used the showstopping moment to also unveil a new collaboration with British label Baracuta. Featured alongside its richly textured Fall/Winter 2024 collection, the capsule pieces that brought a joint expression of heritage to the presentation are now launching worldwide.

Retelling the historical tales of India’s past has been key to Kartik Research’s identity. In the latest collaboration, the South Asian brand taps into the opulent aesthetics of the British Raj era balancing it with the bolder styles of the modernized Western world to introduce a unique dual narrative to Baracuta’s Northern Soul association. Utilizing silhouettes, tailoring and detailing intrinsic to both brands, the six-piece capsule showcases how two polar opposite stories can be woven together through a shared appreciation of craftsmanship.

Naturally, the G9 jacket – a staple of the British label’s portfolio – lands at the forefront of the new offering. Having gone through multiple reinterpretations over the decades, the latest version adopts floral beaded embellishments formed from a traditional Zardozi technique. On the inside of the black jacket, Baracuta’s Fraser tartan lining maintains its signature hues but, instead, is crafted by local artisans using handlooms.

Meanwhile, the boxier G4 silhouette takes on a bolder makeover with both the inside and outside transformed. From the tall dog collar to the umbrella yoke, a patchwork quilt featuring handstitched paisley designs dresses the piece, giving a rawness and imperfect feel to the collection. The outerwear garments are supplemented with three mid-layer garments including a Zardozi embellished shirt and trouser co-ord as well as another hand-stitched hoodie.

Across the capsule, garments take on a palette of greens, blues, and reds. These classic Baracuta tones are taken into the Kartik Research universe through a more muted, natural dyed revision, creating the look and feel of old heirlooms.

Explore the six pieces in the campaign lookbook featured in the gallery above.

Shop the Kartik Research x Baracuta capsule collection online now.

Click here to view full gallery at Hypebeast