Maharishi

Maharishi literally translated means great seer, started in 1994 with the vision to create environmentally sound, fair-trade produced, long-lasting, high-quality, utilitarian clothing. The collection has always included hemp and natural fibers, organic cottons and recycled military clothing. Maharishi has evolved into one of the UK's most influential designer labels, offering men's, women's and children's collections available from exclusive fashion retailers worldwide. Founded by Hardy Blechman, maharishi carries a strong ethos of respect for nature while utilising the latest technology. Blechman, whose former experience lay in the international military and industrial clothing surplus trade, started maharishi by producing hemp and other natural fibre clothing as well as recycling workwear and military surplus. In fact, his work in the field of natural fibres helped them to gain wider acceptance among larger commercial fashion retailers. In 1995, Blechman designed and launched Snopants® - an original design concept with unique detailing that became a significant style statement and the label's signature. Arena Homme Plus described them in their Millennium round-up as "the most copied pants of the decade" and into the 21st century Snopants® have formed the basis of the evolution of a new style of dressing. By 1999, the label was producing comprehensive collections for men, women and children in which innovative design, comfort and functional detail form the common thread. In 2000, maharishi was awarded 'Streetwear Designer of the Year' at the British Fashion Council Awards. Today, owing to its commercial yet still credible status, it stands as one of the top key brands in men's, women's and children's fashion in the UK's leading department stores - Harrods, Harvey Nichols and many others. Despite great commercial growth and a high media profile, maharishi remains a privately owned company, with its ethos and identity truly intact. Blechman's recent collections have expanded on the maharishi ethos by introducing themes connected with a deep concern for environmental issues such as the exploration of melting Polar Ice, Desert Reform, 'The Rising Seas' which resulted in a regenerated earth 'The Natural Order'. All these themes call for a controlled approach to the use of the world's natural resources and further promote the responsibility of the individual in its protection. maharishi prides itself on gaining a respected reputation for not conforming to mainstream fashion trends, placing emphasis on its own points of inspiration and the natural progression of excellent quality, perfect fit and original design. The company continues to develop and expand with a positive attitude, open mind and unique approach, firmly positioning it as one of the most influential and progressive international brands around.