Sarees have been a timeless wardrobe staple for generations, and rightfully so. The versatility of the six-yard drape goes beyond its reputation as heavy occasion wear. Kanjeevarams, Banarasis and Paithanis are time-honoured treasures, but they can not be worn as effortlessly as ready to wear sarees crafted using lightweight chiffons, georgettes and organzas.
Featherlight drapes crafted out of fluid fabrics are worth placing your bets on, if you love adorning minimalistic sarees. They not only take the shape of your body like a dream but are so comfortable that you can spend hours in them without feeling any extra weight. Here’s a complete guide on building a wardrobe of timeless, lightweight, ready to wear sarees for every mood and occasion.
Sophisticated Sheers
The moment one thinks of sheer sarees, the picture of Maharani Gayatri Devi in her elegant chiffons & organzas is bound to pop up! Delicate sheer drapes have stood the test of time and have resonated with royal taste as well as modern sensibilities. Even the most iconic Bollywood saree moments comprise see-through chiffons and nets.
If you love wearing drapes to occasions like weddings and festivities, give the silks a miss and go for a classic organza saree like the one by Zoon Tribe. This minimal one-tone drape is perfectly complimented with a heavily embroidered blouse, making it a showstopping piece for special occasions. Nothing beats a classic black saree when shopping for glamorous nighttime events! The sensuous net embroidered saree set by Ranbir Mukherjee is great for cocktail parties and evening wear. The delicate stone detailing on this adds to its allure and needs minimal styling. Just put on a pair of statement earrings, and you’re ready to steal the limelight!
Flirty Florals
Whether embroidered or printed, you can never go wrong with florals! Lightweight floral sarees are ageless and transseasonal. Invest in a quality floral saree, and it will stay with you for years to come. The blue floral printed saree by Anita Kanwal Studio exudes an air of effortless sophistication. While the georgette fabric makes it easy to carry, the soothing colour palette makes it ideal for summer and monsoon weddings and even brunches. When wearing overall prints, keep the styling minimal with understated accessories and let your outfit do all the talking.
In case you want to move over prints, go for an embroidered floral saree like the one by Rishi & Vibhooti. The Persian blue saree in crepe and organza is adorned with exquisite floral embroidery, making it a statement ensemble that is perfect for evening soirees.
Fanciful Ruffles
Ruffled sarees emerged as a modern trend and soon became immensely popular! From celebrities to designers and fashion connoisseurs, ruffles are loved by all, as they are fresh, playful & lightweight. Whether you want to add a little whimsy to your ethnic wardrobe or dress up as your friend’s bridesmaid, ready to wear ruffle sarees are the perfect choice!
The blossom pink ruffled saree set by Heritage Couture is a fail-safe option for events like mehendi and sangeet. With its featherlight fabric and embellished bralette blouse, this is the perfect combination of elegance and bling! Though there is nothing classier than solid shades, printed ruffles have their own charm. The chiffon printed saree set by the eponymous label Aneesh Agarwaal features micro-prints that will flatter all body types. An intricately embellished blouse and belt make this easy-breezy look perfect for weddings and intimate celebrations.
Ageless Embroideries & Embellishments
Embroideries are an integral part of heritage Indian craftsmanship. Over time, the techniques and their applications have evolved to suit modern sensibilities. From zardozi and chikankari to dabka and mirror work, the history of Indigenous embroideries is a treasure trove of intricate artistry.
But if you love donning embroideries and embellishments, they don’t have to be heavy and uncomfortable, as the generic idea suggests. For festive occasions, you can opt for a ready to wear saree with lightweight work like the red organza by Geroo Jaipur. It features minimal gota patti embroidery and a traditional colour palette of red and gold, ideal for a bridal trousseau. For a grand cocktail party look, the teal green saree from Rooh by Ridhimaa is the perfect pick. The embroidered blouse and zari and sequins embroidery on the featherlight organza fabric will ensure you dance comfortably throughout the night!