Maharishi
Number of products: 53
aka Guru aka great vision in clothing. Founded in 1994 by Hardy Blechman, Maharishi explores the dualistic nature of the universe – expressed through blending Eastern and Western silhouettes and graphic influences, taking a pacifist approach to military-grade utilitarian design, representing camouflage as a symbol of nature and art, and respecting nature whilst utilising technology.
Maharishi – Military-Inspired Designs, Eastern Influence & Sustainable Fashion Origins
Maharishi has carved out its place as a pioneering British streetwear brand, famous for fusing military-inspired style with a dash of Eastern philosophy. Born in London in 1994, thanks to designer Hardy Blechman, Maharishi set out with an ambitious goal: to turn military aesthetics on their head, giving them a peaceful twist and weaving in eco-friendly values alongside ancient wisdom. Drawing on his deep experience in the army surplus world, Blechman poured his love of military clothing—and his respect for the natural world—into every seam of his creations.
The name “Maharishi,” taken from the Hindi word for ‘guru,’ perfectly sums up the brand’s spirit: fusing age-old knowledge with modern-day awareness. This philosophy became the beating heart of the maharishi label, which quickly caught fire in the ’90s and early 2000s, earning cult status along the way. Standouts like the beloved Snopants® gave classic military patterns a bold makeover, turning utility-chic into a mainstream movement adored by celebrities and style aficionados everywhere.
Maharishi’s Pacifist Military Design Philosophy and Urban Warrior Aesthetic
Maharishi’s mission is to break camouflage free from its old links to conflict and instead celebrate its roots in nature and art. At its core lies a vision of pacifist military design: reworking military uniforms, surplus gear, and utilitarian cuts into emblems of peace and mindful living. This spirit shines through in collections brimming with signature camouflage patterns, pagoda motifs, and Japanese influences—a blend that balances urban edge with serene harmony.
Blechman’s “urban warrior” look rewrote the rules. Think quilted jackets, combat trousers, balaclavas, cross-body bags, even reimagined obi belts—all unmistakably shaped by military influences. Yet beneath the tough exteriors lies a gentle message of non-violence and reverence for nature. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword here: Maharishi upcycles military fabrics, breathes new life into surplus clothing, and champions natural fibres like hemp and organic cotton. And if you thought fashion was fleeting, check out their legendary “lifetime repair service”—proof that commitment to responsible style runs deep.
Maharishi’s Global Impact – Spreading Military Designs & Culture
Maharishi’s reach stretches far beyond London’s streets. As one of the most recognizable names in global streetwear, it’s played a starring role in bringing military aesthetics to diverse audiences everywhere. Whether teaming up with heavyweights like Adidas or joining forces with artists and activists, Maharishi sparks fresh conversations about style, sustainability, and cultural identity time and again.
Blechman’s obsession with camouflage found its ultimate expression in “DPM: Disruptive Pattern Material”—an epic tome nearly a thousand pages long that traces camouflage’s journey from nature to art to fashion icon. As Complex magazine aptly put it, there aren’t many who know camouflage better than this British designer.