This is one time in the year when every girl goes desi donning those gorgeous six-yards in cream and gold. Though Kerala brocade itself is a statement of elegance, each season the traditional garb turns trendier with some zappy add-ons. Murals are passe and kalamkaris slightly outdated, so what’s the in-thing in Kerala sari this Onam? The ethnic handloom goes for a chic makeover this year sporting unusual motifs, stone and zardosi work, brocade and ethnic prints.
Kerala saris come with a designer touch at Czarina boutique and giving a stylish switch to the simple Kerala cotton is no easy task. “We buy saris from Balaramapuram and then send it across to various North Indian states. Each state will have its signature print and handwork and adding this will make the otherwise ordinary-looking sari unique. Block printing is done in Kolkata, Jaipur and Delhi,” says Sheela James of Czarina. Once the saris arrive back some special highlight work is done turning each one into an absolute designer piece. “We add motifs or do some mirror work or chikan work. Compared to previous years, the rage this season is brocade. Brocade boarders, applique work done in brocade and brocade blouses are in,” she adds. The price range starts at ` 1,500 and goes on to ` 4,000 depending on the work.
Since this is the season our humble handloom gives chiffons and georgettes a run for their money, the city shops have stored up a quite a slew of options. You can also make your pick from the ones sporting rare and elegant prints like ‘alilakrishnan’ and ‘odakuzhal’. Then there are the pieces with elaborate pallus. “With flower or peacock feather motifs strewn all over the pallu, they make perfect festive wear. Another thing that never goes out of fashion is checks. Kerala saris with zari check boarders have many takers,” informs Beena, a shop assistant.
Mix and match brocade saris with matching blouses are another most sought after combo this season. “Along with special prints and murals we are also introducing a couple of Raja Ravi Varma paintings on saris,” says Deepa Aneesh of Karalkada.
Though there are still takers for traditional maroons and greens, a spate of pastels has taken over the scene and you will be surprised at the riot of colours they bring out. “Along with pastels, some vibrant shades are also in. There is a whole spectrum of fresh colours including pale greens, fuchsia and aqua blue. You will also find some brilliant combinations like fuchsia mixed with black or navy blue. All these colours are quite in at the moment,” says Deepa. Since too much of adventure can impair the genuine grace of the fabric, elements that kill the cream-and-gold effect are avoided. Most of the time it’s a fusion of kasavu with classy handwork.
“We are planning an exclusive range of Kerala saris sporting exquisite paintings embellished with brocade and stone work. This will be our signature collection this Onam and the series is expected to hit the racks next week,” she adds.
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