East London Parasol Company

It has been a journey and adventure bringing together gorgeous fabrics and hand crafts from across India to create my first collection of sumptuous garden parasols. I use antique textiles, embroidery, block prints, taffeta, tassels and pom poms to create something decadent and different to spend time under.

Whilst living in Kerala, southern India, I saw decorative parasols used in religious celebrations. Inspired by the riotous colours I bought my own to celebrate under, little knowing this would lead to a business. On my return to east London I continued to celebrate under my parasols and soon no occasion was complete without one.

The parasols are a labour of love and artisanal alchemy. The silver fringes and top pieces are made in Kerala by the temple umbrella makers. The parasols are from Jaipur where a community of Rajasthani women have learned how to work with Kerala temple umbrella fringing. The canopies are made from taffetas, block prints and antique Rajasthani textiles.

The parasols were made by cheerful people. I worked alongside them and they shared sweets and stories. The parasols weren't made in a dark room full of sewing machines, and they wouldn't be here if it weren't for the people.