Avani is a voluntary organization based in the Kumaon region of the Himalayan mountain ranges in northern India. Avani began in 1997 as a branch of the Social Work and Research Centre, known as the Barefoot College of Tilonia, and follows the Barefoot approach of community-based, sustainable development.
Today, Avani has grown into a successful cooperative enterprise managed by the artisans themselves. The cooperative enterprise provides employment and profit sharing to the people living in the region's remote villages by developing and marketing the Avani collection of wild silk textiles.
Born out of a deep respect for the environment and traditional skills, Avani artisans use local materials, including wild silk and Tibetan wool, and local techniques to fabricate stunning, handcrafted, naturally dyed, contemporary home textiles and women's accessories.
Elegant silk shawls are the perfect light evening wrap for dining or dancing on the club's patio. Treat yourself -- or your best friends -- to the wonderfully soft and delicate feel of these silk wraps handwoven by artisans of the Kumaon region of the Himalayas.
Simple, delicate and luxurious -- wild silk shawls from Avani.