Iba Mallai is an Indian-born designer hailing from Ribhoi district of Meghalaya. During her early age apart from growing up in a community that dyes and weaves their own fabrics. She was also fascinated by the rich traditions and folklore of the area. Her deep-rooted love for nature and traditional craft became a curiosity to learn more about textile and fashion. Graduated in Business management she further pursued Fashion Design with JD Institute of Fashion Design Bangalore. As a woman from Meghalaya, she advocates the solidarity and the need of preserving her heritage, a core part of why she started KINIHO. Every KINIHO piece she creates is an exemplary notion of sustainability from fiber to textile, to design and clothing.
Kiniho means “These are the ones” extracted from the Bhoi language. A way of saying to someone who fails to see what is already in front of them.
“The purpose of reconnecting with my roots has led me to discover Eri silk. I was far away from home when I was looking for material that supported my responsible business approach mission. It was my mother’s persistent phone call persuading me to come back home that made me realize what I was looking for was there waiting for me.
Unlike other silk which is shinier and smoother. Eri silk has lots of irregularities with lots of slugs and imperfections. Yet has this compulsive textural and soft sheen look. This unique quality reminds me that there’s always beauty in imperfections.”
