Saris today tell a different story. Eram Agha covers the yard from ramps to exhibitions
Sabyasachi Mukherjee’s recital of the sari at the lakme Fashion Week doubled up as a tribute to the era gone by. He did a great job of reviving the past and showed us how it could be given a contemporary twist. And why notIJ Re-invention is the perfect antidote for saving peeling borders and disintegrating saris. The juxtaposition of minimalism against minimalism, with play of whimsical design theme and youthful spirit brought tradition out of the shadows. The drapes were paired with mini skirt petticoats, micro mini dresses, peplum silhouettes with structured, panelled, quilted sport jackets, waistcoats and cropped tops. Fashion followers described it as the best bet for the maidens of the metropolis. Designer Shilpa Reddy, who participated in lFW asserts the importance of re-imagining. “The same story can be told in different ways. Since we all live in a globalised world, few western trends are all we need to tweak this garment. That’s what we are today. Experimental and personalised fashion,” she says.
The practical play
Giving a practical rendition of our times can be quite subjective but designers make sure to sell what they make for a purpose. “What’s practical for you may not be practical for someone else. I have dressed people in a shirt and a sari and made sure they were able to carry the look,” says Reddy. Sougat Paul makes sure what he creates makes sense to the buyer. “I always try to make clothes that compliment the woman rather than make her look like a showpiece. The challenge is always walking that thin line between being creative and staying practical,” he adds.
The colour count
Some thought is being put in re-imagining traditional wear — like tussar saris. Ahimsa, a collection by leena Das, which was showcased at the Delhi Craft Council annual exhibition this month, makes saris from silk extracted from cocoon after the worm has cast it away. “Such innovative techniques contribute greatly to the ecological cause,” says Das. To make her creation appealing to the younger generation, she added fluorescent and neon. “My latest collection offers a three-colour concept where blouse, border and pallu are of different colours,” she said.
Saris don’t die
When Ml Sharma, manager Mrignaynee, visited Chandigarh, he was surprised to see how saris have become popular there, especially chanderi. “Women are not missing out any chance to show off their culture and look hip at the same time. Even a city like Chandigarh which is known for its western and salwar wear, has taken to the trend of wearing saris. Traditional work in silver and gold thread is back.”
Empowerment moveIJ
As women are revelling in their financial independence, the designers are waking up to establishing power parity in closet affairs. Which means the inclusion of pockets, zip, vest, tie and belts on the drape. They add to the surprise element of the ensemble. That is other than busting the myth that some of these elements are only meant for men in power.