Discovering Daydress: A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Modernity
From Jaipur to London, Daydress celebrates traditional craft and pattern
To celebrate the launch of our limited Daydress pop-up, with styles available to purchase in stores and online from May 29th to 8th June, we decided to take a closer look at this dreamy brand! Founded by Gabby Deeming, Daydress is a London-based brand that artfully marries traditional techniques with contemporary style, creating garments that resonate with those who appreciate both heritage and innovation. This blog post delves into Gabby Deeming's journey, the unique aspects of Daydress, and why it is a perfect fit for Biscuit Clothing's curated offerings.
Gabby Deeming: The Visionary Behind Daydress
Gabby Deeming's journey into the fashion world is a tale of passion, exploration, and a deep-rooted appreciation for craftsmanship. Before launching Daydress, Gabby honed her skills as an interior stylist and design editor, working with some of the most prestigious publications in the industry. Her keen eye for detail and her love for textiles were evident in her work, where she curated spaces that told stories through colour, texture, and form.
Inspired by her travels and a desire to bring the beauty of traditional textile techniques to a wider audience, Gabby founded Daydress. Her vision was to create a brand that honoured the rich heritage of hand-block printing while offering garments that fit seamlessly into modern wardrobes. Gabby's commitment to authenticity and quality is the driving force behind Daydress, guiding every design decision and production process.
"The Noise of these thumps is the soundtrack to every block printing studio in jaipur"
The Unique Appeal of Daydress
Daydress stands out in the fashion landscape for its dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship and its commitment to sustainability. Each collection is a testament to the brand's ethos, reflecting a harmonious blend of old-world charm and contemporary elegance.
Hand-Block Printing
At the heart of Daydress lies the art of hand-block printing—a centuries-old technique that involves using hand-carved wooden blocks to print intricate patterns onto fabric. This method, revered for its precision and artistry, is central to Daydress's identity. By collaborating with skilled artisans in India, Gabby ensures that each piece is a work of art, carrying the legacy of a craft that has been passed down through generations.
Sustainable Practices
In an era where sustainability is more crucial than ever, Daydress champions eco-friendly practices at every stage of production. From sourcing organic cotton to employing natural dyes, the brand prioritizes materials and methods that are gentle on the planet. This commitment to sustainability not only sets Daydress apart but also resonates deeply with today's conscious consumers who seek fashion choices that align with their values.
Timeless Designs
Daydress's collections are characterised by their timeless appeal and versatile silhouettes. The brand's aesthetic is both sophisticated and approachable, offering pieces that can effortlessly transition from casual daywear to elegant evening attire. Whether it's a flowing maxi dress adorned with delicate florals or a tailored blouse featuring bold geometric patterns, each garment is designed to flatter and inspire confidence.
Most Coveted Pieces
Floral Maxi Dresses -
One of Daydress’s standout pieces is the floral maxi dress, a symbol of effortless elegance and romantic charm. The inspiration for its botanical motifs stems from nature’s breathtaking beauty, specifically the lush gardens and vibrant landscapes of India, where the art of hand-block printing thrives. Each flower and leaf pattern reflects the intricate details found in the natural world, capturing the essence of serenity and grace.
Cotton Quilt Jackets -
Meticulously hand-print, cut, and stitched, Daydress's cotton jackets feature timeless patterns - from the delicate Kashmir Flower pattern—simple yet impactful for the discerning wardrobe - to the Provencale-inspired boulevard print. These jackets transition effortlessly between seasons, balancing the warmth of a coat with the lightness of a cardigan!
Drawstring Skirts
Daydress's drawstring skirts embody the brand's ability to fuse tradition with modern flair. Whether utilising block stripes or indeed their popular paisley motif, the brand ensures it is always paying homage and recognising different cultural aspects in their designs. The paisley motif, with its curved, teardrop shape, has a rich history in Persian and Indian cultures, symbolising life and eternity. The brand draws upon these cultural roots to create patterns that are both timeless and evocative. The skirt's vibrant hues and intricate designs pay homage to the paisley’s storied past, while offering a fresh perspective for the contemporary wearer.
Through these popular pieces, Daydress continues to celebrate the beauty of traditional craftsmanship and the stories behind each pattern, inviting wearers to embrace a fashion journey that honours both heritage and innovation.
Reasons to Invest
- Produced from scratch in one city - Jaipur. Other than cotton based cloth, which is produced in South India, all fabrics utilised are dyed, printed, cut, stitched, finished and shipped from their small Jaipur workshop
- Azo-free dyes used on organic cotton
- Small batch production - the brand keeps their quantities small which means more exclusivity for their customer as well as little waste and the ability to support independent craftspeople.
- Supports independent makers - independence is a key factor in how they work - both for themselves and their makers. This allows them to support and promote skills, making them not only appealing but viable for the next generations to learn and practice.
- Original Designs - all patterns and prints are designed in the brand's own studio
- Transparent Production - all the artisans they use are completely independent, so whatever they bill goes directly to them with absolutely no middlemen.
- Detail - French seams, hand-embroidery and all buttons sewn by hand
Daydress and Biscuit Clothing: A Perfect Pairing
At Biscuit, we share a kindred spirit with Daydress and believe the synergy between us is evident in our mutual appreciation for individuality, authenticity, and the art of storytelling through fashion. Where possible, we believe in celebrating the beauty of slow fashion, valuing quality over quantity and honouring the craftsmanship that goes into each piece.
This shared philosophy makes Daydress an ideal addition to Biscuit Clothing's curated offerings, appealing to customers who seek garments with soul and substance! Daydress's hand-block printed designs and sustainable practices complement Biscuit's curated selection of timeless clothing, homewares, and gifts. Together, they offer a cohesive collection that invites customers to explore fashion that is both beautiful and meaningful!
Just as we draw inspiration from global influences, Daydress incorporates a rich tapestry of cultural elements into its designs. The collaboration between Biscuit and Daydress for this limited pop-up, highlights a celebration of diversity and the cross-cultural exchange of ideas that enriches the fashion industry.
Daydress, under the visionary guidance of Gabby Deeming, represents a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Its commitment to hand-block printing, sustainable practices, and timeless design resonates with those who value quality and authenticity in their fashion choices. And by joining forces we hope that Daydress finds a natural home in a brand that shares its dedication to craftsmanship and individuality.
Shop Daydress at Biscuit for a limited time only - 29th May until 8th June - in stores and online.