Keep the Torch Burning

The appreciation and enthusiasm with which the Champa line was received, not only in Karachi, but in the USA, Sydney and Toronto affirms once again that the culture of the sub continent is alive and kicking within the South Asian diaspora and beyond.

The rich and vibrant traditions of this region bring a burst of colour and cheer to the chilly climes where Pakistanis and Indians have spread in such numbers. The challenge, of course, is to integrate while retaining a sense of identity and for that awareness of the self to remain relevant and attractive to younger generations. It has repeatedly been seen that the link with one’s heritage is a tremendous source of strength and stability and often the bedrock of creativity and achievement.

So whether its Eid or diwali,  or an over the top wedding, immigrants the world over break out the flowers, dhol, henna and our gorgeous ethnic wear with an enthusiasm that would do any culture proud.

As the global village expands, other cultures are eager to embrace new influences. In fact, Champa’s customers hail  from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. And with the ethos of social responsibility woven into our products, our appeal transcends ethnic boundaries. The link with grass roots communities enriches our shared experience with our customers.

At Champa, we strike that balance between the modern and the traditional, between the fun and the serious to offer a collection that appeals to most sensibilities and ages.

So it’s not surprising that our exhibitions sold out! We look forward to increasingly spotting Champa numbers at festivities around the globe and doing our tiny bit to keep the torch burning. 

Story of the Champa Chappal

With great pleasure, Champa recently launched its newest product, the Champa Chappal. These colourful and whimsical flip flops not only make a playful and young at heart fashion statement but also epitomize the Champa fashion philosophy. 

The flip flops are completely hand crafted in small workshops and homes. From the first cutting of the rubber soles to the stitching of the diamantes, the chappals change hands five times till they are ready to slip onto our prepped for summer feet. 

After the soles are cut, the insole is pasted on, then stitched by women in their homes. The soles then go to another home to be stamped with the Champa logo. Then they are returned to a small workshop where the multi hued straps are cut and attached. The slippers are now ready for the final touch! The dazzling little diamantes are painstakingly sewed

onto every slipper by housewives who are supplementing the family income. 

Our trendy flip flops come packed in pretty gauze pouches which are again stitched at home.

 The Champa chappals allow us to remain true to our aim of promoting small industry and each meticulously crafted piece is imbued with the spirit of a collective effort that stems from the grass roots. 

So from the fingers of our talented crafts people to your well shod feet...Do enjoy the Champa chappal this summer!

Karachi Kaleidoscope


The cool morning breeze idly plays with discarded packets and other bits of trash that litter the road outside Karachi's Empress Market. It is still early and the shops are just opening at this iconic landmark. Named in honour of Queen Victoria, the impressive gothic structure, legacy of the city's colonial past, is one of the many architectural gems that dot Karachi's Saddar area. This is a bustling, over crowded locality, teeming with people and cars, but as yet, the area is still just stirring to life.

An old Afghani man removes the cloth covering his pushcart. His wares include an assortment of metallic tobacco boxes, tasselled drawstrings and prayer caps. But what draws the eye is a bundle of colourful silk scarves. In vibrant jewel tones, they would serve as striking accents to any outfit.

Karachi is a true melting pot, home to migrants from all parts of Pakistan. Soon a ghagra clad woman is seen sorting through some wooden crates randomly dumped in a corner. Her distinctive attire of brightly patterned short shirt worn over the voluminous ghagra, with the signature white ceramic bangles covering her arms, is indigenous to Pakistan's desert regions of Thar and Cholistan.

 For the aesthetically inclined, a designer for instance, inspiration lurks at every turn. The vibrant hues of the desert, the intricate embroideries of the plains and the eclectic influences of the north are all reflected in the Champa line. Our fashion statement reflects the many faces of Pakistan, from the modern to the traditional, from classic to fusion wear.

The Champa blog will keep you informed of new trends and exciting influences from Pakistan while also shedding light on issues of social interest which is key to our philosophy of socially responsible fashion.

Welcome to Champa!