A Fashion Designer's Guide On How To Pair Unique Blouses With Sarees

A saree is so many emotions at the same time. It's an ideal depiction of beauty and sheer elegance. Being a true representation of Indian culture, this nine yards of fabric has distinctively evolved in different states and regions of India. From raw materials that can be blends of cotton, silk or linen and exploration of various weaves and textures to the unique borders and diverse drapes, it is an exceptionally versatile garment. The saree has been an integral part of women's clothing in Indian culture since ancient times, and is now widely recognised across the globe with many traditional and modern interpretations to it.

You can enliven your saree style with unique blouses and they have a very important role to play where completing the look is concerned. They could be embroidered, solid, printed or textured and can be in different cuts, fits and styles. One could also use their existing tops and shirts to play along with a saree. Here are some suggestions to re-style and re-wear different blouses with sarees to create an exceptional ensemble:

1. Statement Blouse

Let the blouse do the talking when it's a statement piece. Pair a bold, embroidered or appliqued blouse with almost any plain, patterned or solid coloured saree to let the blouse shine. Try to pair statement blouses with simple sarees so as to avoid any striking clashes.

Also read: Designer Anavila Misra On Reinventing The Saree And What Sustainable Fashion Means Today

^{Samantha Ruth Prabhu wearing a saree by Anavila Misra}

2. Geometric Patterns

It could be tough to pair a blouse with geometric stripes or patterns. To get this combination right, it can be paired with contrast borders and it could also look beautiful with plaids and stripes.

3. Tops And Shirts As Blouses

Casual summery tops with subtle prints or polka dots can also double up as blouses. The best way to style it is to pair it with ivory or pastel coloured sarees. Easy fitting linen shirts also look great with dhoti-styled sarees.

^{Casual summery tops with subtle prints and embroideries work well}

4. Kaftan Style

The kaftan silhouette is super chic with an easy and feminine fit. Pairing a kaftan style blouse in soft contrasts with the saree and minimal accessories can elevate the whole look. It's ideal for summers as it's airy and comfortable.

Also read: These Sarees Will Always Be Prized Possessions In Your Closet

^{The kaftan silhouette is super chic with an easy and feminine fit}

5. Knit Blouses

A bright ribbed knit polo neck blouse with long sleeves looks great with earthy tones and works well for winters. The blouse can also be paired with skirts or trousers as a sweater or jumper and is great to keep you warm.

6. Sheer Sleeves

A traditional saree paired with a blouse with sheer sleeves looks fresh and modern, suitable for when you want to dress conservative but still be experimental. It's a pleasant way to play around with sleeves and a good change up from blouses with structured sleeves.

7. Anti-Fit

These are great for a higher comfort level as they are loosely fitted and don't cling. Anti-fit blouses can be paired with a relaxed saree and antique jewellery for a free spirited and unconventional look.

^{Keep it cool and relaxed in an anti-Fit blouse}

8. Metallics

To achieve a significant vintage effect, an all-metallic look works well. Make sure to pair the blouse and saree in the same metallic shade and best to steer away from too many colours.

9. Layering

Put together an over coat or cape to add an extra element to your blouse and saree. This helps in constructing a distinguished look and is great add on accessory. Layering can be perfected by sticking with one or two colours for the look and with a nice blend of textures.

^{Sonam Kapoor shows us how to layer a saree}

10. Prints

You can also play around with printed blouses to create an illustrious look. Some of the classic and timeless prints are florals, polka dots, leheriya, checks and stripes. Strive for print on print to create a noticeable look or you can keep it simple by pairing it with solids.

About the Author: Anavila Misra, the designer behind the artisanal label Anavila, is known for reintroducing the sari as an everyday fashion and strongly believes in 'being one with the environment'. Her designs communicate the revival of handcrafts and sustainability of fashion's auxiliary industries and are structured for luxury and comfort.

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