Draped in style

Over the years,with the influence of western styles and our own Bollywood experimentation,the six yard garment has undergone several changes and innovative variations have cropped up. In fact,the fusion of different trends is so apparent that the saree now passes off as a lehenga or even a western gown with folds and pleats. Designer Shaina NC,who has mastered the different saree drapes and displayed the same in Pune on several occasions,says,“One kind of variation is when we use two or three textures for one saree. It could be net with Banarasi silk or lace combined with crush – these interesting combinations lend a whole new look to the saree. Add to this,trendy blouses and western silhouettes.”

According to Shaina,this fad of concept sarees has seeped in over the last couple of years. “Youngsters especially want to combine the traditional look with a trendier western look. Thus concept sarees are a flourishing business right now. Sarees look like gowns when draped sensuously around backless blouses. One of the new styles even gives the garment a lungi-skirt look,” she adds.

Designer Moushmi Sanas agrees that people want a change. “They’re all for experimentation and for this the ready,pre-stitched sarees are perfect,” she says. “One of the ready sarees can be made to look like a western dress once its attached and draped tight. Instead of a petticoat,one can wear tights inside. The other options are the scallop look where the saree is draped across the shoulder or draped over one shoulder,” adds she. These pre-stitched sarees are being picked by people for formal events and weddings. “They are to be worn for special occasion. Nowadays,net and chantilly lace are in vogue. Also,French chiffon is perfect for a rich yet casual look,” she says.

Sushma Sanap,who will be tying the knot soon,flaunts her new saree and says,“It’s heavily embellished and once worn,it looks like a cross between a lehenga and a saree. It’s innovative.”

Designer Nivedita Saboo admits that though she does design these variations for clients,she still prefers the saree when it’s draped the traditional way. The fusion look takes away its essential flavour,she believes. “The saree is a classic garment and its beauty lies in the fact that it can be draped in any way one wants. Pre-stitched ones end up looking like lehengas or gowns,so you might as well get yourself a gown instead of cutting up the saree to suit the look. The saree is a six-yard cloth meant to accentuate your figure with its different drapes and styles,but if you cut it up,it loses effect of being India’s heritage garment,” she reasons.