Embrace your ethnic side

The term ‘Handloom’ makes us think of something boring or dull, which we associate with mature women. Contrary to this belief, handloom sarees come in various colors and designs and can be worn with grace by women of all ages. Most popular handloom sarees include - kancheepuram, maheshwari saree, chanderi sarees, tussar silk saree, banarasi silk saree, baluchari sarees, sambalpuri sarees, kantha stitch sarees and munga sarees.

Each saree is unique as they are handwoven on a loom by artisans, no two pieces are alike. They are also made up of 100% natural fibres, which is eco-friendly and good for our skin. Now, let’s look at some tips and tricks to up the ‘Handloom’ style quotient this festive season:

Style up a printed saree with a collared, pop color shirt or a plain saree with a kitsch/geometrical print blouse. Prints can also be teamed up together, so long as they don’t clash. Key to doing that is picking one common color between the prints and making sure the prints vary in scale, small to medium or medium to big.

‘Kurta with saree’ is the latest look which is being explored by many. This is a great option for people, who are also conscious about showing off too much skin in a saree.

Accessorising can play a significant role. Most handloom sarees look stunning with Oxidised silver jewellery. For sarees with gold tone, traditional jewellery with gold accents are better suited. Chunky necklaces work well with simpler blouses.

Experiment with unusual drapes for pleats and pallu. For linen or tussar sarees, you can knot the pallu near the shoulder and let the rest fall at the back or even wear the pallu low under the right breast with a waist long top/blouse.

Silk sarees, especially kancheepuram and banarasi can look chic, when draped with a flared lehenga! Drape your saree like a half saree but with neat pleats at the back. To nail this look, the lehenga and blouse need to be same color and the saree should be in a contrasting shade.

- Bhavya Chawla