Asha Veza

Profile

This venue is closed.

The quality of the iridescent Indian silks, intricate embroidery, and delicate beadwork adorning the garments at this boutique would be reason enough to stop in, but the store’s creative process provides added incentive: All the garments in the boutique are either sourced from emerging designers in Bosnia or India or handmade by disadvantaged women in India. The proceeds from the designer collection funds the training of women who are victims of trafficking or poverty; these women are then employed in the production of the house label. Founder and longtime human rights worker Shanti Crawford recruits a team of local seamstresses overseas to train the women in sewing techniques, to gorgeous effect. One-of-a-kind coats�which can take up to three months to create�are woven from hand-cut ribbons of repurposed silk saris or sewn from pieces of Indian dowry quilts. The handiwork incorporates meticulous detailing, from rows of tiny clasps running up a coat to contrasting interior lining and colorful layered hems. The rich fabrics compliment the refined shop, with warm wood floors, white walls, and elegant floral arrangements displayed among belts, scarves, and jewelry. The creations can be pricey�a sari coat starts at $730�but sale racks in back feature items from past seasons, some for less than $100. — Lauren Murrow