Jabberdust (brand)

Jabberdust, from Urdu, means strong, exceptional, over the top even irrelevant. This expression of high-end craft and beauty transcodes (Stuart Hall) and makes explicit my inherent strengths of colour, texture, materials and how they enhance a wearers apperance. Hand embroidery links skilled workers in India and gifted surface designers globally. The handwork in these photos is designed for Jabberdust and made by Sharifuddin Bashiruddin in Mumbai. In the 1980s, French, German, and British brands saw a large labour pool and willing craftsmen (kharighars) which made the export of mass hand-embroidered goods possible. Custom, red carpet, brands like Armani, Valentino, Fendi and Lange, ready-to-wear and t-shirts were sourced. In some items, the influence of European and Indian culture is visible. Hand-embroiderers avoid the spotlight and rarely get the credit they are due.

From 2001 to 2014: Jabberdust was sold in womenswear boutiques Andrews, Brian Bailey, The Room (at The Bay), Tocca Finita, AGO, Canadian Opera Company, Blu’s (Edmonton) and other acclaimed stores.

From 2001 to 2005: Jabberdust made custom fabrics and trims for Canadian designers and sold them to Pat Mcdonagh, Sunny Choi, David Dixon, Hoax Couture, RK stores, and many others.

From 2014 to date: Jabberdust collaborates with a few emerging designers who appreciate the timeless nature of hand embroidery.

The pieces seen here may be available for study, rental, or sale.