The Soul saree

The Indian Saree (a.k.a. Sari, Seere, Sadi) boasts of oldest existence in the sartorial world. It is more than 5000 years old! It is mentioned in Vedas,  the oldest existing (surviving) literature (3000 B.C.) Patterns of dress change throughout the world now and then but, the Sari has survived because it is the main wear of rural India. 75% of the population (now a billion as per official estimate) wear versatile sari. We can certainly call this cloth versatile because it could be worn as shorts, trousers, flowing gown-like or convenient skirt-wise--all without a single stitch!

This was probably the quickest blogpost I have ever shot. We did the hair and makeup flat 30 mins-and by that I really mean we were darn fast (we usually keep procrastination and the routine takes upto a good 3 hours span).Had somebody asked me my connection towards saree 5 years ago, I would only associate it with my farewell occasion where would really be eager to pick out our mommy’s shiniest sequined saree./my love for saree has definitely come through sourav ( my best friend that I’ve been living in for a year).We met during our NIFT days –were batch mates and eventually just knew how we are destined to be together as label. We are nothing alike and probably that what makes it even more specials except the fact we both are hard-drawn Aquarians.

Sourav has opened up the path of textiles to me by which I particularly mean the handwoven fabrics. I had always been a fan of synthetic fabrics because of my body shape I looked out to fabric that wouldn’t cling to my body-chiffons, polyesters & super net  were my go-to picks!

 My initial  indefinite attachment in Indian handlooms were  towards  craft styles like Ajrakh, Mashroo and Ikat realy. But lately I’ve discovered something new each week as indepth and am open to the learning. My recent discovery is that of Begum Bahar (which I shall be posting next) and I’m absolutely delected about!
 So my top tips to really CHOOSE a saree for yourself comes to you as –

If it’s your first time buying a saree for yourself, it’s in all probability you are picking it up for an occasion.

Think about where you are about to adorn the saree but also keep in mind that when Tomorrow, as you stand in front of your  wardrobe, you should be willing to choose a Saree that calls out to you &  will remember the story of how it made its way into my life.

Don’t fall for a grand saree! To be absolutely fair, there is absolutely nothing wrong with a 'grand' Saree, if you are so inclined, or if the occasion merits it. But don't choose a Saree, based on it's 'grandness'. Choose a Saree because it speaks to you. Choose the Saree which has a colour that thrills you, or that bowls you over with its calm artistry. Choose the Saree which has been handwoven by craftsmen who continue an ancient art form. Choose the Saree that your mother wore, or even one belonging her mother before her. Choose the Saree that your partner picks out for you, even if it’s something you can't possibly see yourself in. Choose the Saree that you love, and it will love you back for a lifetime. And most importantly, I could only choose a Saree I love as a gift for someone else, because it would be an expression of how much it means to me to share the joy of a Saree.(These lines are by Sumita Selvaraj and would like to thank her for the matter me think and dwell so long upon it).

Moving back to My chosen form of Saree is from Designer Sailesh Singhania-an Indigo chanderi with golden zari.I paired this saree in nothing but a statement neckpiece from Mickey Zaveri Jwellery .The neckpiece is made from glass and the printing is actually marbling with 18 carat gold over it.The technique is absolutely meticulous and beautiful to watch. If you are really looking for some head turning pieces this is the place you want to check out. And I’m not saying this because I got to wear them but in all real sense the designs are the perfecta amalgamation of modern and traditional.

Also I will take a minute to thank  Sanky for being super fast that day and absolutely loving my waves! It was such a beautiful day I wore the saree entire day, drenched in rain by the evening.

Special Thanks To the Queen Pooja Dhingra who was gracious enough to allow us to shoot there. I feasted there for 4 days straight and I have had almost anything on their menu literally from the sandwiches to teas to macaroons.You guys must know  Le 15 patisserie!