Brad Pitt's F1 look puts Gujarat's Tangaliya weave in global spotlight

Brad Pitt’s F1: The Movie isn’t just about high-octane racing - it’s also about high-impact fashion. In one of the most talked-about scenes, Pitt is seen sporting a unique indigo shirt. Look closer, and you’ll find it’s not just any designer wear - it’s handwoven in Gujarat.

Fashion designerMiku Kumar says, “When a traditional Indian weave enters global pop culture as contemporary wear - not costume - it signals relevance. It tells the world that our crafts aren’t relics; they’re style-forward, sustainable, and ready to lead. This kind of visibility can spark new markets, elevate artisan pride, and finally give Indian handlooms the global spotlight they deserve.”

The weave behind the wow

The shirt in question was made using the Tangaliya weaving technique, an intricate and lesser-known handloom art form from Surendranagar, Gujarat. It’s crafted by a sustainable Indian brand, known for its blending of traditional Indian techniques with contemporary silhouettes.

Why it matters

The movie may revolve around speed, but its quiet nod to Indian craftsmanship reflects a shift towards authenticity in global cinema. The Tangaliya-woven shirt -made using a 700-year-old technique - places traditional Indian textiles in a modern, international spotlight. It’s not a costume, but contemporary style rooted in heritage. This kind of visibility can revive fading crafts, support artisan livelihoods, and push slow fashion into the mainstream. In an era where every on-screen detail tells a story, even a shirt can carry the weight of culture and meaning.

Did you know?

Tangaliya weaving, practised by the Dangasia community in Gujarat for over 700 years, is a rare handloom technique that creates intricate dot-based motifs by twisting contrasting threads into the warp. Recognised with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, it stands as a symbol of India’s rich textile heritage and artisanal excellence.