Lalaa Kanani: Where each piece is created with the premise that life should be lived beautifully

When did you start @lalaakanani and what led you do so?
In April 2019, I spent a month in a small mountainous village in northwestern Vietnam studying batik and indigo dyeing with a traditional Hmong master artisan. Connecting with artisans in their workshops around the world, hearing their stories, and learning about the history and methods of how they execute their craft is one of the aspects I love most about my work.

I started the brand in December 2019, just a few months after returning from a year-long trip around the world with my husband and 5 children.

Your collection ranges from cosmetic bags and dresses to table linens. What inspires you?
I strive to create timeless, handmade pieces, based on centuries-old traditional techniques, that are useful, beautiful and can be easily incorporated into our modern day lifestyle. Each hand block printed piece is produced slowly and in small batches. Each textile is unique and reflects the mark of the artisans who hand crafted it.

What are you most excited about for in 2024?
I love continuing to introduce the brand through wholesale partners, collaborations, and by attending new markets and meeting new people. For spring and summer, there are some beautiful new women’s clothing pieces and I’m excited about creating my first small collection of children’s sundresses. Also, I’ve customized outdoor tablecloths with zippers and an umbrella hole that are made in vibrant prints and colors, perfect for al fresco dining.

Where can we shop your collection in CT?
It can be found in Westport at @shopterrain, and at @janeandmercer and the @ctaudubon Society, both in Fairfield. I set up pop-up shops at various markets, including at @lachattownfarm’s monthly market in Weston, at the Sunday @fairfieldfarmersmarket, and at the @terrain_westport Local Artist Series. My calendar of events is updated regularly @lalaakanani, and our website is always open: www.lalaakanani.com.