Mark your calendars! I’m thrilled to announce that Studio Dialectica’s Mother Tongue collection will make its debut at the One of a Kind Show in Toronto from March 26 to March 30. This collection has been a labor of love, carefully designed and crafted with intention, and I can’t wait for you to see it in person.
The Inspiration Behind Mother Tongue
As our first official collection, Mother Tongue represents our first dialect as a brand and includes classic pieces which will stand the test of time for the rest of our history. Essential, everyday pieces that will seamlessly blend into tour wardrobe make up this collection.
Just as language shapes our identity, so do the clothes we wear. Each wardrobe tells a unique story, a personal dialect of self-expression. Mother Tongue is a reflection of this philosophy—a collection that draws from linguistic concepts while celebrating sustainable fashion.
The collection consists of four unisex silhouettes and one accessory:
- Akshara Shirt – A classic short-sleeve button-down, crafted from upcycled fabrics, available in eight sizes. $150
- Mantra Shirt – An oversized long-sleeve button-down with a mandarin collar and fabric-covered buttons, available in three sizes. $200
- Chanda Jacket – A zip-up jacket made from upcycled fabrics, offered in eight sizes. $325
- Strata Pants – Versatile cotton/hemp pants made with deadstock fabric and with tying details, available in neutrals navy blue and dark brown, with eight sizes. $225
- Lexicon Tote – A stylish tote bag made from upcycled silk saris, available in mini and large sizes. Mini - $65 Large - $80
Each piece in Mother Tongue represents the foundation of Studio Dialectica’s ethos—thoughtful design, cultural storytelling, and sustainability.
NEW this year at One of a Kind, we will also be offering a hemming service and we will have fabric lengths available to choose from for made-to-order Akshara and Mantra shirts in your choice of size.
A Fresh Approach to One of a Kind
This will be my second time showcasing at the One of a Kind Show, and I’ve made some significant changes since my first experience. Last year, I found myself spread too thin, trying to create too many different products at once. This time, I’ve focused my energy on a curated selection of four silhouettes and one accessory, allowing me to refine each piece to its highest quality.
Another major change? An expanded size range. I heard your feedback loud and clear—last time, I didn’t have a large enough selection of sizes, and I wanted to fix that. This time, garments will be available in a wider size range (up to 8 sizes per piece) to ensure a more inclusive fit for everyone.
Prioritizing Accessibility
Last year, I realized that my booth setup wasn’t as accessible as it could have been. This time, I’ve reimagined the layout to create more open space, making it easier for everyone to navigate, browse, and enjoy the collection. Accessibility is a key part of inclusivity, and I’m committed to making my booth welcoming for all visitors. I have also designed the new pieces to be more accessible in terms of pricing! Last year every piece I created was almost entirely different from the next and this caused my pricing to rise. Since I am focusing on fewer silhouettes this time, I have been able to streamline the process to make the pieces more affordable.
A Team Effort in Production
One of the biggest challenges I faced last time was trying to handle almost all of the production myself—and I failed hard. This time around, I have an amazing team of four talented designers and seamstresses helping me with production, and it has taken a huge weight off my shoulders. Their support has allowed me to focus on design, quality control, and preparing for the show with a clearer mind.
Designing My Own Booth
This year, I’m also taking a big step by designing and building my own booth with hard walls. This will give the Studio Dialectica space a stronger presence, better structure, and a more immersive experience for visitors. Creating a dedicated environment for the collection is something I’m incredibly excited about, and I can’t wait for you to see the final result!
Our booth from last year vs our new wall system which we purchased second hand to transform!
Stronger Marketing, Bigger Impact
Another lesson learned from my first One of a Kind experience? Marketing matters. This time around, I’ve been much more intentional with my promotional efforts—sharing behind-the-scenes looks at the design process, giving sneak peeks into the collection, and making sure that Mother Tongue reaches a wider audience.
I’ll also be sharing behind-the-scenes images and videos from the collection photoshoot and production process so you can see how each piece comes to life. Plus, I’ll be reflecting on my journey with a look back at last year’s show, with photos that showcase just how far Studio Dialectica has come.
Take Advantage of the BYOT Program at One of a Kind
The One of a Kind Show is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of our Bring Your Own Textile (BYOT) program. If you have a cherished textile (an old dress, an heirloom tablecloth, a beautiful curtain etc) you’d like to transform into a custom piece, you can bring your fabric to the show for an on the spot, in-person consultation with us during the show. This is a great chance to discuss your ideas face-to-face and start the process of creating something truly one-of-a-kind that you can wear again. Click here to learn more about the BYOT program.
Visit Studio Dialectica at One of a Kind
If you’re in Toronto from March 26 to March 30, I’d love to see you at the One of a Kind Show! This event is one of North America’s largest craft and design fairs, bringing together independent artists and makers from across the country. It’s an incredible space to connect with fellow creatives and celebrate the artistry behind handmade goods.
Come visit my booth, explore the Mother Tongue collection, and join me in celebrating a more thoughtful, sustainable approach to fashion. Click here to learn more about the show and get tickets. See you there!
Stay tuned for more updates, and follow along on social media for exclusive sneak peeks! This month we'll slowly be revealing more and more until launch day!
Until next time,
Arushi
Founder, Studio Dialectica
CREDITS:
Banner image and image 1 by Pranavan Suhindan at Euphoric Expressions