Style your Handloom Saree

By Mehak Gulati in Fashion September 2, 2024

Handloom Saree

Woven with passion and Worn with pride,

Here, Heritage and Haute couture gently collide!

Hello, dear Fashion Enthusiasts! Today, we’re thrilled to bring you highlights from the “Style Your Saree” contest, a dazzling event to promote handloom sarees that took centre stage on 13^th August 2024 during the Hues of Heritage 2024 celebration.

Hosted by the National Crafts Museum and Haskala Academy, in collaboration with Tale of a Trend and Redefining the Roots Welfare Association, this contest saw over 100 creative students from schools and colleges across Delhi NCR who come together to showcase their unique saree styles. Each participant presented handloom sarees to craft stunning looks, merging age-old traditions with fresh, contemporary flair.

This contest, organized as part of National Handloom Week, was more than merely a competition. It was a tribute to India’s rich textile heritage. Through their inventive drapes and designs, these young talents not only honoured the beauty of handloom sarees but also contributed to preserving and promoting this timeless art for future generations.

‘Style your Saree’ contest has been thoughtfully conceptualised by me –Mehak Gulati, Founder- Tale of a Trend and Director- Redefining the Roots Welfare Association. The aim of the contest is to honour the Handloom Heritage of India and promote it amongst the students of our nation and world-wide.

On the behalf of student fraternity, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to National Crafts Museum and Hastkala Academy for providing their prestigious platform to the students to showcase their ingenious skills.

Congratulations to all the students who became the part of this prime programme.

So lovely readers, join us in our journey as we explore the vibrant world of handloom sarees and celebrate the creativity that makes them so special!

1. Saree Spotlight in Batik Statement

The first saree for today’s blog post is showcased by none other than the Brand ambassador of Tale of a Trend- Muskaan Sachdeva.

The charisma queen has elegantly draped a Batik handloom saree that is a true testament to the timeless beauty of Indian craftsmanship. This saree, with its stunning hues of olive green and black, reflects the intricate artistry of Batik- A traditional resist dyeing technique!

The beauty of this handloom masterpiece lies not just in its colors, but in the story it weaves, pouring artisan’s heart and soul into every brushstroke and every dye bath.

Paired with a trendy black crop top, model elevates the saree’s traditional essence with a contemporary twist, embodying a perfect blend of past and present. Further more, her oxidized silver bangles and jhumkas add rustic elegance, complementing the saree’s vintage allure. The black heels she wears anchor the entire look, giving it a poised finish that speaks of confidence and grace.

Dear girls, carry these handloom sarees with lot of love and pride as they narrate a story of heritage, artistry and fashion!

Model- Muskaan Sachdeva

2. Redefining the Banarsi Roots in Rani Hues- A Royal Revival

This Banarasi Handloom Saree showcases regal elegance and traditional grandeur in its vibrant Rani hue, a color deeply rooted in cultural heritage. The richness of this fuchsia hue radiates an undeniable charm, epitomizing both royalty and tradition. The saree’s beauty lies in the intricate ogee motifs, meticulously woven into the fabric, adding depth and detail.

The drape is a modern reinterpretation of tradition, with artful pleats at the bustier and an asymmetrical hemline introducing contemporary flair. The antique silver necklace gracefully accentuates the neckline, complimenting the attire. Completing the look, the black belt and matching heels create a harmonious color contrast, subtly enhancing the ensemble’s overall elegance.

Model- Bhumika, IIFT (North Delhi Campus)

Designer- IIFT (North Delhi Campus)

Before we explore more saree styles, let me introduce the guests and jury for the event!

L-R: Dr. Nidhi Gupta- Assistant Professor, Lakshmibai College, Delhi University; Ms. Harmonicka Maini- Creative Expressionist; Ms. Anjuman Arora- Choreographer for reality shows and Mr. Petr Sizov- Counsellor and Press Secretary, Russian Embassy in India

3. Regal Radiance in pink and purple poise

This stunning Banarasi Brocade silk saree from ancient city of Varanasi harmonizes traditional craftsmanship with vibrant, contemporary hues. The body of this Handloom saree, in a deep, opulent purple, showcases the mastery of skilled weavers. In a creative twist, a second silk saree in vibrant pink and yellow has been artfully incorporated to create the palla, bringing a lively contrast to the rich purple base. Kudos to the designer!

This combination of two distinct sarees not only highlights the versatility of Banarasi silk but also adds a unique, layered dimension to the ensemble. The intricate golden zari further enhances the saree’s regal allure. The lovely model has done true justice by carrying this timeless piece with poise, embodying the rich cultural heritage it represents.

Model- Yamini, FDDI

Designer- FDDI

4. Traditional Trendsetter in Turquoise

This mesmerizing ensemble features a stunning Banarasi saree that exudes an enduring charm through its harmonious blend of turquoise, blue, and purple hues. The richly woven purple Banarasi palla, adorned with intricate golden threads, adds a lot of glitter and glam.

The model’s graceful poise is beautifully complemented by the elegant drape of the saree, which is cinched perfectly with a belt, enhancing the silhouette. Her striking choker necklace harmonizes effortlessly with her facial expressions, making this look a true embodiment of heritage reimagined for the modern era.

Model- Fashion Design Dept., JCC

Designer- Fashion Design Dept., JCC

Banarsi and Ikat Styles from JCC

5. Lens and Loom- A photographers Tale of Khadi Trend

Serenely poised, this simple yet strikingly beautiful woman is wrapped in the timeless elegance of a Khadi saree. The handloom saree, with its ivory hue, radiates subtle sophistication, elevated by an antique golden border. Adorned with hand-painted black motifs, it showcases the deep artistry and passion behind traditional handloom heritage. The intricate black paisley and floral designs, carefully hand-painted across the fabric, create a stunning contrast against the soft ivory, making this saree a true epitome of fine craftsmanship.

Adding to the significance, this young lady is not a contestant but the photographer for the event. Yet, she too has embraced the theme, draping herself in the grace and dignity of a hand-woven saree. Her choice to wear such a saree, despite her role behind the lens, is a beautiful nod to culture and the occasion.

Definitely, it’s heartwarming to see that the lovely lady draped in handloom is capturing the handlooms!!

In- frame- Photographer Rishita

6. Harmonising in Handloom- Chettinad Chanderi Couture

The vibrant Chettinad Cotton saree in orange and green showcases the richness of South Indian tradition. The saree is beautifully complemented by a delicate temporal border, enhancing its grace and simplicity. The coiled style of the palla adds a distinctive flair, making it a standout feature of this traditional attire. Her broad silver oxidized bracelet, which adds a rustic charm that balances the vibrant colors of the saree.

Amazingly, this saree was draped by 14-year-old Laranya, who, despite her young age, has shown remarkable creativity and reverence for Indian craftsmanship. Not only did she styled this saree, but she also designed and wore a Chanderi handloom dress herself, showcasing her dedication to the handloom heritage. Her thoughtful blend of traditional and modern elements in both the saree and her own attire reflects her talent and deep appreciation for Indian textiles.

Model- Myra Mehndiratta, Doon Public School

Designer- Laranya Rajpal, Doon Public School

7. Draped in Nostalgic Delight

Alumnus Modern Public School (that’s me ), proudly posing with today’s trendsetters of Modern Public School showcasing our Handloom Sarees. And, we are colour coordinated in hues of Emerald Blues!

Cheers to Style your Saree Contest!!

L-R: Dhanvi Chadha, Navya Arora, Muskaan Sachdeva, Mehak Gulati, Yashika and Navya

Both the Modernites have elegantly draped stunning Banarasi silk sarees, each showcasing a unique blend of tradition and style.Their choice to pair the sarees with traditional jewelry complements the saree’s luxurious texture, allowing the beautiful patterns to stand out.

Both of these Banarasi sarees are exquisite examples of how we can style classic Indian textiles with modern elegance, perfectly reflecting the essence of the event.

8. Geometric Glam in Bold Brocade

This Banarasi brocade saree, in delicate onion pink, showcases the timeless beauty of handloom craftsmanship. The saree’s bold geometrical motifs honor traditional weaving while embracing contemporary style. Paired with intricate shoulder jewelry, the drape radiates sophistication.

Also, the face painting with delicate dots adds a striking, modern edge! The brown ruffle on her hand creates an element of dominance, adding an artistic flair. This look perfectly blends the heritage of handloom with modern fashion, celebrating the saree’s enduring charm.

Model- IIFT, North Delhi Campus

Designer-IIFT, North Delhi Campus

9. Feathered Finesse on Kasavu Canvas

This stunning Kasavu saree from Kerala embodies the rich heritage and intricate craftsmanship of the region. The gold border, woven with fine threads, shimmers elegantly, reflecting the deep cultural roots of Kerala.

Also, the delicately block-printed peacock feather motifs grace the soft white fabric, infusing it with nature’s serene beauty. The saree is styled with a contemporary drape and voluminous balloon sleeves, adding a modern twist to this traditional masterpiece. Paired with minimal jewelry, the ensemble allows the saree’s elegance to take center stage, creating a timeless yet fresh look.

Model- FDDI

10. The Next -Gen Trendy Tussar

This vibrant magenta Tussar silk saree radiates a perfect blend of traditional craftsmanship in today’s style. Tussar silk, celebrated for its rich texture and natural sheen, stands as a signage to India’s handloom heritage.

The saree is styled with a contemporary reverse halter-neck drape, cinched at the waist with a sleek belt, adding a modern flair to this classic fabric. Modeled gracefully by a young girl, the ensemble beautifully captures the elegance of Indian textiles, showcasing the timeless appeal of Tussar silk in a fresh, youthful way.

Model- Rachel Alaric, Fr. Agnel School

Designer- Aamya Singh; Doon Public School

11. Silk Sass in Golden Glam

The saree beautifully merges modern magic with luxurious legacy. The traditional off-white South silk saree, highlighted by golden accents, drapes gracefully in new age charm. The golden belt cinches the saree at the waist, adding a structured silhouette and a regal dimension to the ensemble. The bold statement jewelry enhances the ensemble, with a symphony of opulence.

This ensemble is not just an outfit; it’s a celebration of delicate tales of South silk in luminous sheen of gold, linking the waves of ancestral and heritage harmony.

Model- Ishika

12. A Turquoise Tale in Banarasi craftsmanship

This saree, with its beautiful blue hue and Banarasi blend, stands out despite not being a pure handloom. We included it in our showcase to support student creativity and participation, acknowledging their effort to learn and distinguish between fabrics.

The saree’s spot weave and elegant drape, paired with a crisp black top, create a super stylish look that highlights the designer’s eye for detail and the model’s graceful presence.

Model- FDDI

Designer- FDDI

Friends that pose together, stay together!

13. Breaking Gender Sterotypes

The male model has been draped in a stunning south silk saree along with his sherwani, demonstrating that sarees are not confined to women. The drape is worth appreciating!!