Highdesign India: A Brand That Embodies Quality and Community Empowerment

When it comes to high-quality leather products, few brands can match the standards of Highdesign India. Founded by Dilip Kapur in 1977, Highdesign India has been synonymous with excellence for over four decades. The brand's commitment to using only the finest materials, particularly full-grain vegetable-tanned leather, sets it apart from others.

Vegetable-tanned leather is a rare commodity, accounting for less than 10% of all leather produced globally. Highdesign India's dedication to this traditional method ensures that its products are not only durable but also environmentally friendly. The brand's early days saw the creation of innovative bags that were both unconventional and ecologically responsible.

Highdesign India's unique approach to bag-making earned it instant recognition on Castro Street, California, which was then known as the gay capital of the world. Kapur shares in an exclusive email interview that the brand's goal is to continue pushing boundaries while staying true to its ecological values.

In addition to its commitment to quality and sustainability, Highdesign India is also deeply invested in community empowerment. The brand not only employs women from rural areas but also supports small community groups, funding research and schools to offer free education. This social responsibility extends to hiring employees from religious minorities and the LGBTQ+ community.

Highdesign India's atelier in Pondicherry is home to skilled craftswomen who work together to create each bag by hand. The brand believes that human hands have soul, and this philosophy is reflected in every stitch, every buckle, and every detail of its products. From the knotting of each stitch to the individual sand-casting and polishing of brass buckles, Highdesign India's attention to detail is unparalleled.

As a testament to its commitment to handcrafting goods, Highdesign India has won several awards, including the 'Accessory of the Year' award in the UK for its boxy bags. Today, the brand is available in 25 countries worldwide, and its products continue to be sought after by those who appreciate quality and craftsmanship.

In an era dominated by fast fashion, Highdesign India remains a beacon of excellence, refusing to compromise on its values and principles. With its unique blend of innovation, sustainability, and community empowerment, the brand has established itself as a leader in the world of leather goods. As Kapur himself says, 'We are not just making bags; we are creating a legacy that will outlast us.

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