On April 19, Delhi-based brand Kartik Research will open its first US brick-and-mortar storefront in New York City’s Lower East Side. Setting up shop on Orchard Street, the brand joins a neighborhood of young, emerging brands and vintage designer boutiques.
In an interview with WWD, founder Kartik Kumra said, “New York’s been our biggest market from the start.” “We opened a store in Delhi last year, but this is our first significant foray into retail. When I was in college in Philly, I would come up for the weekend; I’ve done pop-ups with Colbo down the street since I was 20 years old. We’ve been wholesaling through them and a few other retailers around the city for a few years now.”
Established by Indian designer Kartik Kumra in 2021, Kartik Research has gained recognition for its craft-led designs inspired by a mixture of Indian heritage and the bohemian countercultures of the 20th century. The designer, who went to university in Pennsylvania, went on to become an LVMH Prize Semifinalist in 2023.
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The multi-brand retailer Colbo was a fitting venue for Kartik Research’s earlier pop-ups. With brands like Cawley, SK Manor Hill, and Colbo’s in-line collection, the retailer’s curation focuses on neutral colors, roomy silhouettes, and high-quality construction. Kumra’s handmade and naturally dyed garments, produced in India, boast warm tones and heritage-inspired embellishments like tassels, embroidery, and instarsia knits.
Located on 61 Orchard St, the space boasts the decidedly human sensibilities of the collection. Warm lighting illuminates the intimate space, and rustic natural materials are used in the seating and decor. Scattered throughout are authentic indian crafts, including metal vessels, sculptures, and paintings.
Starting tomorrow, April 19, the Kartik Research store will be open from 11-7pm EST.
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