Smoke Lab Wear’s monochrome edit comprises genderless T-shirs, jackets

An outfit from the monochrome collection | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The recently-concluded 2025 Met Gala themed on Tailored for You saw a storm of black and white designer wear on the blue carpet. Think Jeremy Allen White’s three-piece black pinstripe Louis Vuitton suit, and Demi Moore’s black-and-white striped dress by Thom Browne. Closer home, Smoke Lab Wear — a unisex fashion label by Smoke Vodka — dedicated its latest collection to monochrome. Launched recently, the collection “is an ode to clarity and contrast” says founder Sanya V Jain, who kickstarted the Delhi-based brand five years ago.

She explains how the range — designed in collaboration with artists Jasjyot Singh Hans and ‘Llavi’ Tyagi — was “built around a black-and-white palette that highlights the form, texture, and emotion behind each piece”. The collection includes relaxed-fit trousers, oversized T-shirts, and jackets, all crafted from breathable organic fabrics and upcycled materials. But why monochrome? “It’s timeless, adaptable, and reflects the mood of the moment. You can dress the pieces up or down, and that kind of fluidity is central to our design thinking. The monochrome edit also gives our construction, fit, and detailing a chance to shine without being overshadowed by prints or excessive colour,” says the designer, adding how the garments are genderless, and versatile.

“Fashion should empower, not label”, she says, “It was vital for me to design clothing that isn’t restricted by gender because identity is fluid, and style should reflect that. By creating fluid silhouettes and adjustable fits, we ensure that our clothes celebrate individuality and body positivity,” says Sanya, who hails from a family that has been in the leather industry for generations (her father owns tanneries). “I was designing handbags long before Smoke Wear came into existence. SVJ Bags started almost 15 years ago and is very close to my heart. Recently, we collaborated on a Smoke Lab x SVJ collection, which sold out in just three days.” 

Collaborations are central to the label, and partnerships with Lovebirds Studio, Khanijo, and Prxkhxr are examples. “We’re now exploring partnerships with Indian artists whose work revolves around themes of environmental awareness,” concludes Sanya.

The monochrome collection is priced upwards of ₹4,700 on smokelabwear.com

Published - May 28, 2025 02:44 pm IST