THE TALE OF NINE YARDS

THE TALE OF NINE YARDS





The modern woman wants to look different and contemporary, yet she loves the traditions. So, gear up to embrace the new incarnations of the quintessential sari

History claims the sari was born at the loom of a whimsical weaver; today, the nine yard drape has be come a fashion statement. From being just a humble piece of long cloth to present-day muse, the sari has evolved through layers of deconstruction. With innovative silhouettes and unique ways of draping, the sari is bending genres and creating a stir in the fashion orb.

THE DHOTI SARI

The dhoti sari is a new take on the traditional silhouette; it has a western, contemporary touch to it. Designer Son aakshi Raaj explains, “This Diwali is all about flaunting the latest designer wear. My personal style statement is very feminine. I like classic sil houettes with sexy backs. The trend in saris has had a major twist. This festive season, women are experimenting with quirky sari designs and creating a distinct style statement--The dhoti sari is going to be huge this season.“

The modern take on saris is drawing attention of many fashionistas. In the forthcoming season, be prepared to witness such designs on the red carpet as well. Dhoti saris look best in contemporary colour palettes like blush tones of pink, coral and red. You can also try hues of shimmering gold and powder blue. “I believe gold is the colour of the season.Also, soft, flowy fabrics and delicate textures in flirty drapes are going to be the hottest trends,“ adds Raaj.

On how to accessorise with the dhoti sari, Raaj avers, “Adding delicate fine jewellery undoubtedly enhances any look, whether western or Indian.“

KHADI SARIS WITH EMBELLISHMENTS

With eco-friendly fashion doing the rounds, khadi saris are making a revolutionary impact in the realm of fashion. However, khadi is certainly not for people who can't think beyond georgette and chiffon; rather, it is for people who love Indian fab rics, Indian textures and Indian colour palettes. This festive sea son, khadi saris embel lished with subtle glitter in terms of s embroidery and teamed with interesting silk blouses in contrasting tones are in vogue.“Khadi is a handmade, hand-woven and hand-spun natural fabric. It is an eco friendly, versatile and lightweight fabric; it is airy and almost feels like second skin after a wash or two. The finest khadi in the country comes from Andhra Pradesh and the entire process of manufacturing--right from the separation of the seed to the spinning--is done by hand that no advanced mechanised technology can replicate,“ shares designer Sashikant Naidu.

Talking about colours, textures and fabrics that work best, Naidu explains that as a designer drawn to all things natural and eco-friendly, he loves colour palettes that comprise alizarin red, indigo blue, pomegranate and yellow; these colours impart wonderfully muted tones to the saris. “Team these saris with blouses or tank tops in bright, double-toned hues in contrasting fuchsia, lemon yellow, bright orange, or even sea green to create visually interesting looks,“ he adds. Also, acces sorise with tribal jewellery to add a contemporary twist to the ensemble.

THE GOWN SARI

The gown sari is an easy, stress-free, yet glamorous silhouette. There is no hassle of draping, pleat ing and adjustES ing the pallu; just put on the outfit, zip it up and you are ready to go. “During the festive season, people mostly wear traditional Indian wear; however, with all the card parties, and cocktails events, we are seeing an increasing demand for the gown sari,“ states designer Gautam Gupta.

Gown saris in georgettes, chiffons, lycra, brocade and other forms of silk are popular; these fabrics give structure to the garment as gown saris require draping in high twisted yarns.Also, lay your hands on bold, solid colours, flaunting 3D embroidery textures and colourblocking effects. As far as accessories are concerned, play with earrings, bangles and footwear.

THE PRE-STITCHED SARI

Pre-stitched saris come in various forms--from fixed pleats to narrow pallus--the options are in abundance. “Wear a textured trouser with a plain drape sari to look elegant. You can also play with the cuts and silhouettes of blouses to create interesting drapes,“ suggests Gupta. For textures and prints, minimalist 3D embroidery is the mantra of the hour. As far as interesting drapes are concerned, you can play with the hemline of the sari.