Raymond Introduces Hemp Shirting Fabrics to Its Premium Collection
The new collection features four hemp-based fabrics, combining comfort, durability and sustainability for formal and smart-casual wear.
Raymond Lifestyle Limited has introduced a new range of hemp shirting fabrics in its Premium Shirting Fabrics category. The launch expands the company’s fabric portfolio and highlights its focus on textile innovation. It also reflects the growing demand for more sustainable materials in fashion.
Raymond has a long history of introducing new fibres, blends and finishes to the Indian market. Now, the company is bringing hemp to premium shirting as an alternative to conventional fabrics. Although hemp has been used in textiles for centuries, it remains less common in India’s premium shirting market.
Four Hemp Fabric Constructions
The new collection features four fabric types: Pure Hemp, Hemp with Tencel™, Hemp with Cotton and Hemp with Bamboo. Each construction offers different benefits. Together, they cater to a range of formal and smart-casual clothing needs.
Pure Hemp offers durability, breathability and vibrant colours. It also becomes softer with repeated washing. Meanwhile, the Hemp and Tencel™ blend offers a smooth feel and better drape. Hemp with Cotton combines the familiar feel of cotton with everyday breathability. In addition, Hemp with Bamboo focuses on moisture management and a soft, luxurious feel.
With these four options, Raymond aims to make hemp suitable for a wider range of shirting styles. The collection also seeks to take hemp beyond its niche status in the fabric market.
Sustainability Drives Fibre Innovation
Commenting on the launch, Anupam Dikshit, Chief Business Officer, Shirting Business, Raymond Lifestyle Limited, said, “Sustainability in textiles is no longer a matter of positioning. Garment brands have moved from voluntary sustainability commitments to material-mix targets and in Raymond, as a leader in the fabric industry, there is an increased commitment towards sustainability for conservation of resources and protection of the environment. We manufacture fabric for international & domestic fashion brands as well as the premium domestic fabric market. Hemp needs significantly less water than conventional cotton, in a world where there is severe water constrains, grows rapidly and does so without dependence on pesticides or fertilisers. For a company that has thrived in this industry for over a century, sustainability is a way of life and we take our position as a leader very seriously in Innovation, Quality & Sustainability.”
As apparel brands strengthen their sustainability goals, the choice of materials is becoming more important. Manufacturing methods also play a key role. Against this backdrop, Raymond’s hemp collection offers brands and consumers more fabric choices beyond conventional fibres.
Designed for Contemporary Shirting
Hemp’s breathable fibres help support comfort and temperature control. This makes the fabric relevant for warm climates such as India. Moreover, its durability makes it suitable for garments designed for regular use.
The collection combines these features with modern colours, patterns and designs. According to Raymond, hemp’s look and feel have also attracted interest in India’s domestic fabric market. This interest includes value-added blends and younger consumers.
The collection has recently been introduced through Raymond’s trade channels. As a result, it adds new options to the company’s premium shirting portfolio. It also reflects the textile industry’s growing focus on fibre innovation, fabric performance and resource conservation.
