SHOWSTOPPER blouses
The concept of a "blouse piece" seems old news these days. Even a year ago, a huge factor in the purchase of a sari was whether it came with a blouse piece that matched it exactly. In case the sari came without, women had a few default blouses in stock which they would use, such as one black, one white, and one red blouse. Necklines were round and sleeves spanned from three to four inches in length.
Oh, how times have changed! It seems impossible that Batman would take a back seat and Robin would become the hero, but the impossible has happened in the case of the sari-blouse duo. Over the past year or so, the blouse has become the star of the show.
Sure, saris are still the highlight of your appearance, but if you choose to wear a plain sari with an amazing blouse, no one shall begrudge you for it. In fact, you will probably get bonus style points.
The sheer amount of choice when it comes to fabrics, laces, buttons, yokes and other add-ons means that you really don't have an excuse for not being creative with your fashion choices. Some women are even making or purchasing the blouse first and then complementing it with a sari made from bought fabric, rather than the other way around.
Contrast is in, but keep in mind that cohesion is most definitely important. The colours may be different, but small details like the piping or the pattern must match. The fabrics of the blouse and sari need to be complementary. For example, you can't wear a Tangail taant sari with a velvet blouse. Think of an embellished blouse and accompanying sari like a picture and its frame.
If there's anything good that came out of the lawn kameez rage, it's that tailors are now more competent than ever in customisation. Draw up your design and add a few labels, or print out a picture for your tailor, and he or she will most definitely be able to replicate effectively.
Recycling saris is also easier with an interesting blouse piece. We all have a few favourite saris and are not always interested in buying new ones. Give an old sari new life by making a new blouse that reflects current trends. Have one of those pretty hand painted muslin saris at the back of your closet? Try a ruffled neckline sleeveless blouse for a truly ethereal look.
Want to wear your mom's expensive Jamdani to a wedding? Make a brocade boat-neck blouse with three-quarter sleeves in a contrasting colour.
If you don't know where to begin, turn to social media for the answer to all your problems. Get some fashion inspiration from Instagram and Pinterest, where searching for blouse designs will give you innumerable options and get your grey matter working.
Photo: Shahrear Kabir Heemel
Model: Arpita, Doyel
Wardrobe: R I Hasan
Make-up: Farzana Shakil
Location: Hotel Amari
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