Stunning Alterations
Elegant, feminine and a wonderful blend of both traditional and modern – a sari has allured generations of South Asian women. Many have considered it as a family heirloom and passed it down from generation to generation. Amazing thing about the sari is that it has survived centuries as a favoured garment whereas many other clothes have lost its charm. Having said a lot on the 'living legend' – the sari, dilemma arises when people have to store their heirloom for years and fight against time to keep it shipshape. In such a case it is advised to make style adaptations and create a new design. Here are few time-tested suggestions.
The skirt
You can cut out the sari into a fashionable long skirt, making sure to include the favourite patterns. The skirt is advised to be kept long in order to conserve most of the sari.
The lehenga
The sari can be stitched onto the skirt of a lehenga. Complex designs can be formed based on what you sketch in your mind. Intricate patchworks will make the lahenga look more vibrant and colourful, and make worth keeping, ensuring your mum's cherished sari stays with you much longer.
The dress and the kurta
If skirts are not your thing and you love wearing dresses; then definitely you should try making a long gown or a party frock out of the age-old sari. It will create a buzz and grab a lot of attention for you. If you are inclined onto more of an eastern look, the sari can be comfortably turned into a kurta.
The long jacket and blouse
Long jackets are making a wave in the world of fashion. It looks more authentic and regal when made out of exquisite materials such as your mum's favourite silk, Jamdani or brocade saris. The leftovers, after making the jacket can be stitched into a fashionable blouse to be worn in contrast with other saris.
Exclusive trousers, palazzos and Capris
If you thought you would look amazing in a lahenga made from your mum's sari, try putting on a trouser made out of sari material. With proper pairings you would catch the eyes of most in any sort of congregation. Combine the Capri or the palazzo with a single coloured bold top and you are set to party all night.
The gorgeous orna
Heritage ornas have always been a symbol of elegance. These are usually crafted from old gorgeous saris. These ornas are generous in length, usually combined with plain three piece suits made out of khadi or plain silk. The combination looks breath-taking and is meant to make jaws drop with every gaze.
The long gown
Since the days of the Roman Empire, the quintessential long gowns have always been in style. Materials suited to make these types of gowns are chiffons and georgettes. Likewise, saris in the specified material can be cut inventively to make elegant and fashionable gowns.
A final word of caution, whatever, variety you decide to convert your favourite sari into, remember that it can never be returned back to its original disposition. Unless you are extremely sure about making the change; do not!
Sometimes priceless memories are best preserved in their original form.
By Mehrin Mubdi Chowdhury
Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed
Model: Akhi
Wardrobe: Warez
Makeup: Farzana Shakil's Makeover Salon
Location: Four Points by Sheraton Dhaka