Reminiscent: Fragrant Textiles by Pallavi Padukone

Reconnecting with Nature and Nostalgia Through Scented Embroidery

Reminiscent is a unique approach to integrating scents into textiles through embroidery and embellishment. Padukone collaborated with nature, using only biodegradable materials in her production process. She developed a natural coating for cotton yarn, infused with pure jasmine essential oil, to create fragrant embellishments on organza silk.

Jasmine II, one of the textiles in the collection, is handcrafted from sheer organza silk and features accessible pockets for storing flowers and fragrances. Jasmine I, on the other hand, is crafted with scented embellishments that are both hand-set and machine embroidered.

Padukone faced several challenges in creating these textiles. One of them was the temporality of scents and how to make them last longer. To address this, she designed accessible pockets in Jasmine II, allowing users to replenish the fragrance once the flower buds lose their scent. Additionally, the scent-coated yarn on Jasmine I releases fragrance for up to one to three months, depending on exposure to heat and light.

The multi-sensorial qualities of Reminiscent textiles offer users a unique interaction experience. Through touch, smell, and sight, users can engage with these textiles on different levels. The fragrances can also be customized based on individual preferences. When the textiles come into direct contact with heat, the scents are released more strongly.

Not only are these textiles fragrant, but they are also sustainable. Padukone's use of natural materials, including biodegradable dyes, makes them less harmful to the environment. The project started in December 2019 in New York and was completed in May 2020. It was exhibited at New York Textile Month in September 2020.

Reminiscent has garnered recognition in the design world and was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2021. This prestigious award is given to designs that are well-designed, practical, and innovative, meeting professional and industrial requirements.

Reminiscent by Pallavi Padukone is a testament to the power of scent in enhancing mental and physical wellness. Through her unique approach to integrating fragrance into textiles, Padukone invites us to reconnect with nature, nostalgia, and our sense of identity.