From Nubra to New Delhi: Padma Saldon’s Mission to Redefine Ladakhi Wool for the Global Stage

Weaving Culture into Contemporary Fashion

“If Lucknow is known for its chikankari and Banaras for its silk weaves, I wish to represent Ladakh and shine light on our nambu (sheep) wool,” says designer Padma Saldon, founder of 2112 Saldon. With a deep-rooted passion for her homeland’s textile heritage, she is reimagining traditional Ladakhi wool techniques to create sustainable, high-fashion pieces for a global audience.

A Lakmé Fashion Week Debut Rooted in Heritage

In October 2024, 2112 Saldon made its runway debut at Lakmē Fashion Week X FDCI, as part of the prestigious GenNext talent incubation program. Her collection, Memoirs of Ri-Yul, transformed Ladakhi silhouettes into contemporary fashion, featuring deconstructed bok-inspired wrap dresses and patchworked Changthang jackets layered over hand-pleated joggers. With a color palette inspired by the jewel tones worn by her grandmother, Padma’s designs honor nostalgia while looking towards the future of sustainable fashion.

The Legacy of Ladakhi Wool and Artisanal Craftsmanship

At the heart of 2112 Saldon is Ladakh’s nambu wool, a durable, handspun fabric dyed naturally with walnut shells and lachu (a mountain plant). Padma works closely with female-led weaving clusters in Phyang village and Nubra Valley, collaborating with local artisans to revive and innovate handwoven textiles. From thigma tie-dye techniques to custom Ajrakh block prints, every piece in her collection tells a story of craftsmanship and cultural preservation.

A Fashion Business Shaped by Ladakh’s Climate

Unlike mainstream fashion brands, 2112 Saldon’s production model is deeply influenced by Ladakh’s extreme climate. “Weaving takes place in the summer, while the bitter winter can only support yarn spinning,” Padma explains. The textiles are crafted in Leh, with stitching and finishing completed in Delhi at her studio in Lado Sarai. This hybrid approach ensures both authenticity and adaptability in production.

Snippet From Delhi Studio, Lado Sarai

Market Expansion: Bridging Tradition with Contemporary Demand

The demand for Ladakhi wool is growing, with brands like Looms of Ladakh, Zilzom Couture, and Lehvallée contributing to the region’s textile resurgence. 2112 Saldon’s signature wool jackets and dresses, priced from ₹20,000 upwards, cater to a niche clientele across India and internationally. The brand currently sells from a flagship store in Skara Road, Leh, attracting tourists from Europe, Russia, and NRIs, and also participates in Dastkar crafts bazaars in Delhi, fostering direct engagement with consumers.

2112Saldon Studio,Skara Road, Leh

The Future: Ladakhi Wool for Festive and Bridal Wear

Breaking stereotypes about wool being solely for winter wear, Padma Saldon envisions a new era of Ladakhi festive fashion. She is working on incorporating luxurious brocades with indigenous wool, bringing warmth and elegance to special occasion wear. “Who says wool can’t be festive?” she asks, paving the way for a sustainable yet opulent fashion revolution.

Experience 2112 Saldon

Immerse yourself in the essence of Ladakhi craftsmanship with 2112 Saldon’s latest collections. Explore our handwoven, sustainable designs that redefine traditional textiles for the modern wardrobe. Visit our store or connect with us online to witness the future of slow, luxury fashion.

Read More

This article was originally published on The Voice of Fashion. Click here to read the full feature.