Kartik Research x Baracuta: A Fusion of Heritage and Craftsmanship

British heritage brand Baracuta is thrilled to unveil its first collaboration with emerging South Asian artisan label, Kartik Research by Kartik Kumra. This partnership brings together two unique design legacies, blending the spirit of British heritage with the intricate craftsmanship of India to create a contemporary collection of everyday workwear infused with a timeless, vintage sensibility.

Debuted at Paris Fashion Week during the Kartik Research runway show, this capsule collection is a bold exploration of the Autumn/Winter 2024 inspiration, reflecting the dual identity of India. The designs juxtapose the romanticized imagery of British Raj remnants with the dynamic, globalised western world. Kumra weaves together these polarized realms with Baracuta’s Northern Soul to craft a 6-piece collection, reimagining the iconic G9 and G4 jackets through an artisanal lens.

A Contemporary Take on Timeless Classics

The collection features relaxed, boxy silhouettes, starting with a lightweight cotton shirt and loose-fitting black straight-leg pleated trousers, elevated by traditional Zardozi floral hand embroidery and intricate beaded embellishments. This delicate applique technique is echoed on an army-green cotton-jersey hoodie, with exposed raw-cut edge seams that enhance the relaxed yet refined aesthetic of the collection.

Baracuta’s legendary G9 Harrington jacket undergoes a remarkable transformation through the Kartik Research design philosophy. Handmade details such as embroidery and embellishment introduce a new level of craftsmanship to this classic staple. The signature Fraser tartan lining is meticulously recreated on handlooms by local artisans, a tribute to the ancient Indian handicraft tradition that Kartik Research champions. The familiar features of the G9—like the umbrella back yoke and two-button dog ear collar—are retained, while Kumra seamlessly integrates his brand’s artisanal ethos with Baracuta’s timeless style.

Reinterpretingthe G4

Elsewherein the collection, Baracuta’s iconic G4 jacket is reimagined in a handmade patchwork quilt adorned with Kantha embroidery. This intricate fabric, developed in collaboration with a women-owned cooperative in Maharashtra, India, is entirely hand-stitched without the use of electricity, highlighting the commitment to sustainable, human-centric craftsmanship. Each piece is uniquely imperfect, celebrating the individuality of its maker while maintaining the G4’s signature features such as the raglan sleeves, umbrella back yoke, two-button dog ear collar, and two-way front zip fastening for ultimate versatility andbreathability.

Future Heirlooms Crafted with Care

The Kartik Research x Baracuta collaboration brings together the best of both brands' distinctive characteristics to create a collection that is not only visually stunning but also rich in narrative and heritage. From the meticulous hand embroidery to the reimagined silhouettes, this capsule represents a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, designed to be cherished as future heirlooms.

Shop the collection now and embrace a timeless piece of fashion history.