Ever began a journey without maps or milestones? There are some journeys that neither follow the traditional diction nor any particular route - instead, these journeys navigate with a feeling. A yearning that’s quiet, a whisper that grows louder with time.
That is how RIHLA came into existence. A brand born not from the drawing boards of commerce but from a deep place in my heart. Hi! I am Richa, and this is the story of how I turned a dream into something timeless and meaningful with RIHLA.
The name Rihla means journey — and that’s exactly what this brand has been for me. RIHLA is the unfolding of a dream that bridges continents, generations, and art.
Growing up amidst India’s rich artisan culture, I witnessed the alluring magic of hands at work - looming, printing, and dyeing with nature’s palette. The mastery of the art, the dedication of the artists stayed with me, etched in time like the fine threads of the handloom.
Years later, after settling in North Carolina, the pull of those memories became stronger. I could no longer ignore the desire to build something that celebrated that artistry. And so, I began RIHLA—a brand that not only produces beautiful garments but also speaks for sustainability, ethical practices, and deep respect for the people behind each piece.
Thus, RIHLA began….
If I had to describe RIHLA in a single line, I would say - a modern brand with a heritage soul.
That’s the heart of RIHLA—a quiet celebration of craft, culture, and the hands that bring each piece to life. Here, trend forecasts take a back seat. Instead, our garments are created with care and reverence. Fabrics are thoughtfully handwoven on traditional looms, block-printed with stories carried through generations. Each embroidery stitch echoes a heritage that endures, even as the world rushes by.
These are not merely clothes stitched together for fashion. These are timeless pieces, crafted with patience, woven with natural fabrics.
At RIHLA, each piece is made using natural or organic fabrics, dyed with azo-free, hypoallergenic dyes. We aim to honor both the earth and your well-being. The silhouettes are gently structured, flowing with ease and purpose - a perfect ensemble for days that demand quiet comfort.
RIHLA’s collections are shaped not only by fabric and form but by a quiet question that comes to me whenever I sit down for a sketch:
How can we create something beautiful that also uplifts the people who make it?
With every sketch, every print, and every stitch, I try to answer that. I personally design every element—drawing prints, shaping silhouettes, and collaborating closely with the artisans. My approach is simple - it blends a deep respect for craft with a modern, minimal sensibility to create pieces that feel both rooted and refreshing.
It’s the kind of beauty that doesn’t shout but stays with you. A quiet kind of luxury. Pieces that are specifically designed to be lived in, loved often, and passed on.
For me, sustainability is not a trend or a checklist. It’s the core of everything we do at RIHLA.
It means slowing down and choosing with care. It means working directly with artisans across India, not only to preserve their skills but to honor their time, dignity, and craftsmanship. It means producing in small batches with minimal waste.
To me, fashion should be kind - to the maker, to the wearer, and to the planet.
There’s no rush, no impending need to run and catch up.
I often get asked what led me to this path. What do I want with RIHLA?
Born in India, shaped by its culture, and now living in the United States, I bring a rare dual perspective to RIHLA—deeply rooted and globally attuned.
My background as an attorney lends me clarity and precision, but it’s my love of storytelling and craft that defines my work.
For me, RIHLA is not just a brand, it’s a responsibility, a choice, a way to bring life to pieces where the old and the new can coexist in harmony.
She moves through the world with intention—curious, kind, and quietly confident. She chooses pieces that carry meaning, not just style. The Rihla woman reads garment tags to trace the story behind the seams.
She believes in thoughtful dressing—favoring craftsmanship, quality, and care over the fleeting pull of trends. For her, beauty lies in how something is made, not just how it looks.
As RIHLA grows, the journey continues. Each new collection is a way to reconnect with my roots - to celebrate slow fashion and make eco-conscious decisions.
So here’s your invitation: Step into a world where craft meets consciousness. And where your wardrobe becomes a reflection of a gentler way of living.
Discover timeless pieces with RIHLA today!
