When it comes to traditional attire, India is a treasure trove of options. And while each of them come with their unique aesthetics, the saree has a special place in most Indian women's hearts. How could it not, with its powerful combination of elegance, sensuousness and grace? Not to mention how accommodating it is of every body type imaginable. Given how it can enhance every body type and size, we're not surprised by how even our Bollywood fashion icons have taken to it in a big way in the last few years. Two that stand out, from very recent memory, are leading ladies Anushka Sharma and Deepika Padukone.
Anushka's choice of a traditional bright red Sabyasachi Benarasi saree for her wedding reception in Delhi last night is the only thing the Internet can talk about today.
Similarly, in October, Deepika was a vision to behold in a stunning traditional red Raw Mango saree at the launch of Hema Malini's book, Hema Malini: Beyond The Dream Girl
Sabyasachi wrote in an Instagram post, "I don't think Indian brides feel complete without wearing the colour red in one of their functions... I was particularly excited about this look because I have seen an entire generation of Bengali women getting married in red Benarasi sarees. The red bindi, the sindoor and the mogras in her hair just made the look more potent and powerful."
And even while we agree with Sabya one hundred percent, we also have to admit, no matter how much you love it, wearing the sari the same couple of ways every single time can become a bit tedious and monotonous. Which also begs the question, why should you have to? There's six whole yards of fabric to play around with, so why stick to draping it only a couple of common ways? We've all seen designers and celebs give the desi sari a modern twist with unusual drapes and accessories; and whether you're the bride or her best friend, there are ways to up your saree game with a few experimental twists.
Here are some of our favourites.
Belting Up
The easiest way to add contemporary glam to traditional saree is to cinch it at the waist with a belt. This simple twist will make sure you're the woman everyone wants to be at the wedding. If you don't have one, this one would be perfect for your gorgeous sarees, we think.
Two-In-One
Adding another traditionally Indian garment to the saree is a slightly more complex, but such a rewarding and unusual way to take the sari several notches higher. If you're feeling experimental, add an angrakha to the saree and let the world know that you're a pro at layering.
Corsets Are The New Crop Tops
Ditch your traditional blouse and wear a corset with your saree, instead. Your whole look will be bordering on edgy, while maintaining the traditional essence of the saree. To add even more oomph to the outfit, throw your pallu around your neck like a scarf.
Play With Illusions
Like Deepika, you can create the illusion of a saree, without actually wearing one. Wear a maxi skirt, a sexy blouse and drape a dupatta over the two. But make sure your skirt is a bodycon one; if it's flowy, it'll end up looking just like a lehenga saree.
Playing with drapes is another way to amp your saree up. Tying it like a dhoti is a perfect way to attend a mehendi function - your own or your bestie's.
You can even create the illusion of wearing jodhpurs with a dupatta, by taking the two sides of your saree and tucking them in at the waist -- a great look for a cocktail party.
So ladies, how would you wear your saree this wedding season? Tell us in the comments section below.
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