Ribhav Kapur, the innovative mind behind Delhi-based startup Econock, is transforming the landscape of luxury fashion with sustainable practices. With a background in fashion technology from NIFT Mumbai and years spent honing his craft under the tutelage of renowned designer Manish Arora, Kapur’s journey took a transformative turn in 2017 during a collaborative project with Swarovski.
Encountering a shortage of materials, Kapur improvised by utilizing Swarovski’s crystal dust, sparking a revelation in resourcefulness. This pivotal moment ignited his passion for sustainable design, leading him to pursue a master’s degree in sustainability from Malmö University in Sweden.
Inspired by the Japanese art of Kintsugi, Econock breathes new life into discarded materials, crafting luxurious accessories with a focus on functionality and longevity. Their collections, such as Sophisticated Survivor and Gold Riddance, showcase the marriage of craftsmanship and sustainability, redefining high-end fashion.
Central to Econock’s ethos is the utilization of scrap leather, a byproduct of the leather industry’s mass production. By repurposing these materials, Econock not only minimizes waste but also champions a circular economy model.
Traditional artisans play a vital role in Econock’s journey, infusing their expertise into each meticulously crafted piece. Through innovative upcycling techniques, Econock transforms waste materials into unique, utilitarian accessories that resonate with conscious consumers.
Looking ahead, Econock expands its product range to include jewellery crafted from scrap leather and metal, further solidifying its commitment to sustainability. Despite remaining a bootstrapped venture, Econock seeks partners and investors who share their vision for slow, circular, and sustainable fashion.
In a world dominated by fast fashion, Econock stands as a beacon of conscious consumerism, offering luxury without compromising on ethics or the environment. As the fashion industry evolves, Econock leads the charge towards a more sustainable future, one accessory at a time.
