Founded by Trishala Bhansali, Lekha has been a beloved Magazine Street gem since 2017. Rooted in craftsmanship, cultural heritage and commitment to female empowerment, the brand offers thoughtfully made clothing, home goods and accessories for the mindful consumer. Named in honor of Trishala’s grandmother, an influential political figure and passionate advocate for women’s rights, Lekha continues her legacy by sourcing pieces from artisan communities across India, many of which are selected in partnership with women’s empowerment groups.
In the spirit of celebrating global craftsmanship and female-led artistry, Lekha is hosting a special pop-up this week featuring two fellow women-owned artisan brands based in Mexico. When asked how she discovered these particular brands, Bhansali shared a personal story. “We partnered with brands Carla Fernández and Carolina Spratling through Caroline Nabors, a close friend and longtime supporter of Lekha. During a recent family trip to Mexico City, we spent time with Caroline, and she introduced us to the Carla Fernández shop. The brand is deeply rooted in preserving Mexico’s indigenous textile traditions, with a strong emphasis on ethical fashion and a contemporary, unexpected perspective. The ethos of her brand immediately resonated with me as it’s like our own mission, albeit in India and with Indian artisans.”
Another compelling layer of this collaboration is the New Orleans connection. Caroline Nabors, the designer behind Carolina Spratling jewelry, also happens to be a former New Orleans resident. Bhansali shared, “Caroline is also related to the late William Spratling, a pioneer of the silver industry in Taxco, Mexico, and former professor at Tulane University’s School of Architecture. He designed silver jewelry, working alongside and training artisans in silver work, bolstering creativity and design, and crafting community, under his namesake label. Now, Caroline is continuing his legacy with her own line of silver jewelry, designed and produced in Taxco, Mexico.”
During this week’s pop-up, Lekha will continue to offer its signature products like ethereal silk dresses, quilted wrap coats and more. Bhansali adds, “We now carry suede and leather garments from a mother-son duo in Mumbai, including our new Teja suede coat, available in very limited quantities. We also received a restock of our recycled sari pajama sets from one of our women-run workshop partners outside Jodhpur.” There’s always plenty to feast your eyes on at Lekha including sumptuous, flowing textiles draped beside vibrant block prints. But let this week’s pop-up take you through a tactile exploration of not just the rich craftsmanship of India but the bold beauty of Mexico as well.
Earrings, Carolina Spratling
Tote, Lekha
Bag, Carla Fernández
Sale & Event Picks:
Ongoing: New Superstitions Collection, Porter Lyons
Oct. 23 (5-7 p.m.): Hat Shop NYC Fashion Presentation, Le Marais
Oct. 23 (11 a.m. – 4 p.m.): GNuvia Pop Up, Angelique
Oct. 25 (11-11:30 a.m.): Mah Jong 101, Judy at the Rink
Oct. 30: National brand, Reformation opening at 3909 Magazine St.
