Merakhi Showcased Sustainable Fashion at Upcycle Fashion Week A Runway for Change
A Runway for Change
At New York Fashion Week 2025, Upcycle Fashion Week, presented by the Sizzle Arts Foundation, set the stage for a bold reimagining of fashion. The event highlighted designers and brands committed to sustainability, upcycling, and ethical creativity—proving that luxury and responsibility can coexist. Among the standout participants was Merakhi, a brand whose philosophy of conscious craftsmanship and respect for tradition made a powerful impact on the runway.
Merakhi’s Vision of Sustainable Elegance
Founded by Anokhi Parikh, Merakhi draws its name from the Greek word “Meraki,” meaning to put one’s soul and creativity into a craft, and from the Sanskrit word “Anokhi,” meaning unique. The brand has become known for preserving traditional artistry—such as Indian block printing, embroidery, and textile weaving—while combining these heritage methods with modern design sensibilities.
By showcasing at Upcycle Fashion Week, Merakhi extended this vision into the realm of sustainability, presenting a collection that fused cultural heritage with innovative upcycling techniques. Each piece reflected a dedication to slowing fashion down, creating garments meant to last, and reminding audiences that beauty can be responsible, soulful, and environmentally conscious.
Why Merakhi’s Showcase Mattered
-
Heritage Meets Innovation: Merakhi proved that upcycling is not just about reusing fabric, but about reinterpreting culture and craftsmanship in ways that remain relevant to today’s fashion landscape.
-
Ethical Luxury: The brand demonstrated that true luxury lies in care—care for artisans, care for materials, and care for the planet.
-
Representation of Sizzle Arts Values: By being part of this showcase, Merakhi reinforced that sustainability, inclusivity, and artistry can work together as a cultural force for good.
Alignment with Sizzle Arts Foundation Mission
The Sizzle Arts Foundation was created to support artists, designers, and creatives by fostering education, collaboration, and sustainability in the arts. Its mission is to empower creative voices while driving innovation that positively impacts communities and the environment.
Merakhi’s presence at Upcycle Fashion Week directly reflects this mission. Through their work:
-
They educate the public on the importance of ethical fashion.
-
They collaborate with traditional artisans, helping preserve cultural practices.
-
They promote sustainability, echoing Sizzle Arts’ commitment to climate-conscious creativity.
This synergy demonstrates how events like Upcycle Fashion Week not only showcase art and design but also fulfill the foundation’s nonprofit goals of advancing sustainable practices while creating opportunities for underrepresented creatives.
Why This Strengthens Grants Appeal
For grant-making bodies and supporters, Merakhi’s showcase is proof of measurable impact. The event:
-
Addresses environmental goals by reducing textile waste through upcycling.
-
Empowers communities by supporting artisan crafts and ensuring fair practices.
-
Promotes inclusivity and accessibility in fashion, aligning with broader social impact initiatives.
-
Engages the public in climate awareness through creativity, one of the strongest tools for education and change.
By featuring Merakhi and other sustainability-driven brands, Upcycle Fashion Week offers funders a clear narrative of how art can become a solution to climate challenges, cultural preservation, and social empowerment.
Final Thoughts
Merakhi’s showcase at Upcycle Fashion Week was more than a fashion statement—it was a living example of how sustainability, tradition, and creativity can reshape the industry. For the Sizzle Arts Foundation, it reinforced their mission and strengthened the case for support from grants, donors, and cultural institutions.
It marked a future where every garment tells a story—not just of beauty, but of responsibility, resilience, and meaningful change.
