Easternlight Zimik's new collection
- A blend of sustainable fashion and cultural revival -

Mingyashin Shaiza *

Easternlight Zimik's new collection :: Pix - TSE

Easternlight Zimik, the visionary designer behind the homegrown brand EAST, unveiled his third textile collection, "DEAR SPRING", in an exclusive presentation at Pasei Books and Studio in Hamleikhong, Ukhrul District.

The event, an intimate affair with only a select few guests, including the DC of Ukhrul district and president of Tangkhul Shanao Long, radiated elegance and cultural pride as it celebrated Zimik’s unique take on the beauty of spring season and textiles that reflect sustainable fashion, traditional skill and the empowerment of Tangkhul weavers.

Local artists further enriched the presentation, creating a vibrant atmosphere of music and artistry that reflected the collection's thematic beauty. The presentation opened with Tangkhul artist Winso Chamroy’s heartfelt rendition of "Ina Khi Ningchang", an original song of Theithei Luithui. This song, perfectly aligning with the collection’s theme, set the tone for the unfolding spectacle.

Later, Yuileichan Mahongnao delivered a captivating performance of her original song, "Khamathava", complementing the presentation’s celebration of spring and renewal. The evening was underscored by the atmospheric soundtrack "Haori Haorang", composed and arranged by Augustine Shimray, Okchar Kaping, and Zimik himself.

As the first notes of the EAST original soundtrack echoed through the venue, 15 models made their way down the steps of Pasei Books and Studio, adorned in the vibrant colours and patterns of the "DEAR SPRING" collection. Inspired by the ephemeral beauty of spring flowers, each piece showcased Zimik’s innovative use of textiles. The colours captured the essence of Ukhrul district’s natural landscapes, which are bright, beautiful, and reminiscent of the hope spring brings after a long winter.

Ukhrul Deputy Commissioner Zuringla Kengoo expressed during the event, “There is so much potential and promise in what Zimik is doing. Let us think of how we can raise people to reach the sky. Flaws that we have, let us make them into golden issues, mending the brokenness with beauty.”

In his collection notes, Zimik shared that the ‘Dear Spring’ collection is more than just a series of textiles; it expresses hope in the face of adversity. "Amid the chaos, EAST has taken root and bloomed, marking its first year this March," Zimik wrote. He described the collection as an "ode to hope in the face of despair and a celebration of the transformative power of love and support."

The designer paid homage to the resilience of the Tangkhul community and the unyielding spirit that has guided him through difficult times. The collection symbolizes renewal and change, mirroring the vibrant rebirth of spring and the sense of community integral to EAST’s success.

Reflecting on the future, Zimik acknowledged the uncertainty of the path ahead but expressed his unwavering conviction in the power of community and self-sufficiency. "We can create a sustainable future that's not reliant on external forces, but on our own unwavering hope and determination," he asserted.

A standout feature of Zimik’s journey is his dedication to upgrading the art of weaving within the Tangkhul community. Known for creating the Kashan/Mekhala, a traditional North Eastern textile, Zimik has emphasized empowering local weavers and promoting sustainable practices. He proudly employs seven full-time weavers, creating jobs and preserving the skills passed down through generations.

“When I first started, I didn’t plan to make Kashan,” Zimik explained during a conversation at the event. “But I didn’t have the investment, so I thought Kashan (Mekhala), being worn by everyone in North East India, would be a good starting point. As I reflected on our ancestors, I realized that Kashan making is zero-waste and environmentally viable. I appreciate our ancestors for their ingenuity and respect Tangkhul culture for its deep connection to nature and sustainability.”

Despite limited resources, Zimik has demonstrated remarkable creativity in his designs. He uses available materials like polyester and acrylic, though he aspires to incorporate more sustainable fibres like cotton in the future. His commitment to sustainability is rooted in his desire to preserve Tangkhul traditions while evolving them to meet modern demands.

“I don’t just see Kashan as Kashan right now. It’s clothing,” Zimik remarked. By reimagining traditional garments as modern fashion statements, he seeks to elevate Tangkhul craftsmanship to a broader audience within Northeast India and the country.

As a fashion designer in Ukhrul district, Zimik faces numerous challenges, particularly in logistics and access to raw materials. The region’s remote location often complicates collaborations with stylists and suppliers, and the scarcity of sustainable materials limits his ability to realize his vision entirely.

Nevertheless, Zimik remains optimistic about the future, believing that the necessary infrastructure for research and development will emerge with time and effort.

“I should say, the Tangkhuls are very supportive,” Zimik shared, expressing gratitude for the community’s encouragement. “Even people who don’t know me personally have been kind. There are not many people who have explored what I’m doing, so I have an advantage. I’m proud to be a Tangkhulnao.”

Zimik’s work is an inspiring example of how fashion can serve as a vehicle for cultural expression and social change. His brand, EAST, has become a symbol of the potential for sustainable fashion to thrive in remote regions where traditional practices can be adapted to modern contexts.

Zimik hopes to encourage a broader appreciation for Tangkhul culture and craftsmanship by promoting the Kashan as a fashionable and environmentally friendly garment. He believes that the people of Tangkhul and Northeast India have much to offer the fashion world.

“Why should we only think about Tangkhul when we are consuming so much from the West?” he asked. “What I’m doing is showing that we can wear clothing made by our weavers and wear it as fashion. It’s possible.”

Through EAST, Zimik is creating beautiful textiles and fostering a more sustainable and self-sufficient future for his community. His work is a testament to the power of hope, creativity, and resilience in adversity.

As DEAR SPRING marks EAST’s first year in operation, Zimik looks forward to expanding his brand and supporting the local weavers who are the backbone of his work. With the community's support and a growing customer base, EAST aspires to have a sustainable economy, as the skills are essential for the community.

With the DEAR SPRING collection, Zimik has demonstrated that fashion can be a powerful tool for change, uniting tradition with innovation, culture with sustainability, and community with the fashion world.