Whether it’s a fashion enthusiast following a sartorial pledge or a designer driven to conserve art, sustainability has become more than a buzzword in the course of time. One of its important aspects is conserving clothing that have legacy like the bridal sarees, salwar kameez sets, lehenga cholis, kurtas etc. While the world has established that fashion is ever-evolving, mindful designers have been revisiting these classics in their original form. Meanwhile, the versatility of these designs are breaking the stereotypes for consumers to reach out to them beyond their customary use. 

Practical sarees for any day in your diary

The traditional sarees are the most sought after choice for festive occasions in every part of India. From benarasi to chanderi and kanjeevaram, a handwoven sari is for the ages. Designers are borrowing the timeless charm of Indian sarees and customising designs that are exquisite yet practical to be draped around for more than just festive occasions. 

Kshitij Jalori lends a globally-savvy character to this handloom brocade saree layering it with a sharply tailored trench coat. Bringing in New Year’s Eve overseas? Here’s the perfect look for a rooted and resplendent style statement.

Anita Dongre Grassroot offers a fuss-free saree to make a fierce and feminine statement at a boardroom meeting with off-shore clients. 

If you’re seeking an alternative to the flouncy dress for a garden party, choose a quintessential Bollywood-inspired pure chiffon sari from Label Earthen.

Kurtas beyond everyday basics

A traditional Indian wear for generations, the kurta-salwar ensemble has undergone several reinventions. While some are modern-age and trendy, some designers have revisited the classic kurta ensemble rendering the silhouette with rich Indian craftsmanship. Once just everyday basics, the ensemble is the perfect choice for extravagant Indian celebrations, courtesy to their fuss-free statement. 

Imagine a glamorous kurta set for the cocktail hour— designer Shruti S designs the sleeveless kurta and masterfully draped salwar ensemble perfect for a sangeet-cum-cocktail party.  

For a dazzling evening look, place your bets on the sequin-clad kurta churidar ensemble by Nakul Sen. 

Ri Ritu Kumar enhances the rooted connotations of the kurta ensemble with a silk base and aari embroidery. Reserve the ensemble for your Anand Karaj ceremony.

Lehengas beyond weddings

A conventional wedding wardrobe is often replete with lehengas. With designers championing the silhouette season after season, lehengas are MVPs that beam with styling possibilities that can deliver a decadent look at occasions beyond the conventional ones. 

Ekaya punctuates its handwoven lehenga with the bustier blouse, a perfect dinner look for a newly wed bride. 

Using recycled polymer to create metallic accents, Amit Aggarwal designs an artfully structured lehenga silhouette to serve as an Indo-western counterpart of a gown for evening galas. 

Anita Dongre introduces the cascading layered lehenga and bustier ensemble to put you in the spotlight at a resort party.