For many, denim is just another wardrobe essential. For Sakshi Kumari, the founder of Statement Denim, it became a canvas for change. The inspiration behind the venture wasn’t a fleeting idea—it was a reality witnessed firsthand.

Years spent inside denim production facilities revealed the staggering amount of waste generated piles of premium fabric discarded after production, toxic dyes leaching into nearby water bodies, and even stray animals-stained with indigo from chemical exposure. These weren’t just statistics; they were everyday sights that left an indelible mark on Sakshi.

From a Classroom Project to Global Recognition 

The journey of Statement Denim began as an experimental classroom project at NID Gandhinagar. The idea of upcycling denim waste wasn’t just about creating something new; it was about solving a real problem. When a proof-of-concept trial was conducted in Ahmedabad, the response was overwhelming. People weren’t just interested in sustainable fashion- they were excited about stylish and affordable denim that carried a meaningful story.

And so, Statement Denim was born, with a mission to turn denim waste into high-fashion, guilt-free apparel.

Momentum built quickly, and by June 2024, Statement Denim was recognized by the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry as one of the Top 3 Textile Innovations in India. The biggest milestone, however, came with its selection as one of the Top 10 Terra Carta Innovators globally, later emerging as a winner from India at the Terra Carta Design Lab 2024. The recognition provided international visibility, opening doors to funding, collaborations, and the chance to take the idea to the next level.

But beyond the accolades, the real achievement was in proving that fashion could be both conscious and compelling, turning waste into something people were proud to wear.

Reinventing Denim with a 60% Lower Carbon Footprint

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for Statement Denim; it’s at the core of how the brand operates. Instead of relying on conventional water-heavy techniques for denim manufacturing, it uses laser and ozone treatment for denim finishing, drastically cutting down water consumption.

Every piece of denim that would have otherwise been burned or buried is repurposed directly into new garments, eliminating the carbon footprint that comes from waste disposal. The brand’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop at production. With a circular approach, customers can return worn-out garments for repairs, customizations, or upcycling, ensuring their denim never needs to be thrown away. 

In 2025, Statement Denim is set to introduce handloom denim fabric with natural dyes, pushing its mission for guilt-free fashion even further. 

 

Turning Obstacles into Opportunities

Upcycling post-production denim waste is not without challenges. Fabric quality is inconsistent, requiring meticulous sorting and pre-processing before it can be repurposed into new pieces. But perhaps the biggest challenge is changing consumer perception—many people still see sustainable fashion as expensive or niche.

 

Making Sustainable Fashion Mainstream

‘Guilt-free denim’ is more than just a product—it’s a movement toward conscious fashion. Many consumers don’t realize the hidden cost behind what they wear, but with Statement Denim, they have the opportunity to make a difference.

The brand’s core audience is Gen Z and Millennials (18–35 years old)- a generation that values self-expression, individuality, and purpose-driven brands. But to bridge the gap between eco-conscious shoppers and mainstream fashion consumers, Statement Denim follows a unique approach.

Blending sustainability with bold, trend-driven designs ensures that its pieces don’t just feel good to wear but make a statement. Pricing is another key factor—sustainability is often associated with high costs, but Statement Denim challenges that by keeping its products affordable without compromising quality. Instead, it offers bold, expressive designs that appeal to mainstream fashion consumers while still meeting the standards of eco-conscious buyers.

 

Bringing Statement Denim to the World

As the brand grows, its reach is expanding through both online and offline channels. Its official e-commerce platform and social media presence on Instagram and Facebook serve as direct sales and engagement hubs. Meanwhile, pop-up stalls and partnerships with sustainable fashion marketplaces help bring the brand’s vision to a wider audience. The NID campus shop, NYDUS, has also become a key offline touchpoint, giving students and young consumers firsthand access to Statement Denim’s guilt-free fashion.

Scaling Up with NSRCEL

Winning at the Terra Carta Design Lab 2024 was a pivotal moment, but the next challenge is scaling for long-term impact. Joining the Women Startup Program at NSRCEL, has been a significant step in this journey. With structured mentorship and industry insights, the program is helping Statement Denim refine its business model, build a strong team, and expand strategically.

A New Era of Denim is Here

Statement Denim challenges the norms of fast fashion, proving that waste can be beautiful, and that sustainability can be bold. It empowers consumers to make better choices without sacrificing their sense of style.