In the ever-evolving world of fashion, trends come and go, but some styles remain timeless. One such enduring fashion statement is the saree. One of the key reasons for saree’s continued relevance is its versatility, in terms of fabrics (silk, georgette, chiffon, cotton, net, organza, tissue, etc.), draping styles (Bengali style, Gujarati style, Maharashtrian style, etc.) and designs. Thus, making it suitable to be worn on various occasions, right from daily wear to grand celebrations.
Once considered the domain of older generations, the saree has made a remarkable comeback, capturing the hearts and wardrobes of Millennials and Gen Z in India. This resurgence is not just a nod to tradition but a bold fashion choice that reflects a blend of cultural pride, modern sensibilities, and sustainable living.
Modern Relevance:
Now more than ever, sarees are adorned for any important occasion, be it formal or festive.
In contemporary fashion, the saree has seen a resurgence for several reasons:
- Cultural Pride: There is a growing sense of pride in traditional wear, with younger generations embracing the saree for its cultural significance and timeless elegance.
- Celebrity Influence: Bollywood stars and fashion icons frequently wear sarees on red carpets and in films, bringing the garment into the global spotlight. And with Gigi Hadid and Zendaya adorning a saree at the NMACC event, looking at Hollywood celebrities, more and more younger girls are embracing the nine-yards in their own way.
- Designer Innovation: Modern designers like Tarun Tahilliani, Amit Agarwal, Gaurav Gupta, etc. have reinvented the saree, experimenting with fabrics, patterns, and draping styles, making it appealing to the fashion-conscious.
- Sustainable Fashion: In an era where sustainability is crucial, the saree stands out as there is nothing more timeless than a good silk saree that is passed from generation to generation. Old sarees are repurposed a lot by younger generations to make other outfits like a lehenga or sharara set, etc.
- Symbol of Empowerment: The saree has also become a symbol of empowerment. Women across India wear it with pride, showcasing their heritage while asserting their individuality and confidence. It is a garment that transcends age, social status, and regional boundaries, uniting women in a shared cultural legacy.
Saree trends of 2024:
A classic silk saree or embroidered saree will be in trend till eternity. But other than that, as of 2024, some of the latest saree trends include:
- Fusion Sarees: Blending traditional saree drapes with contemporary silhouettes- like a bandhani drape saree.
- Statement Blouses: The focus is shifting towards statement blouses that complement the saree rather than traditional matching sets. Embellished, ruffled, and off-shoulder blouses are trending.
- Sheer Fabrics: Sarees made from lightweight and sheer fabrics like organza, georgette, and chiffon are in vogue, offering a contemporary and ethereal look. These sarees are often adorned with delicate embroidery, hand painting or sequin work for added glamour. Georgette/Chiffon sarees adorned by Sushmita Sen in Main Hoon Na in early 2000s and Alia Bhatt in Rocky Rani ki Prem Kahaani have always managed to create a sensation among women in India, thus it never goes out of trend.
- Metallic and Bold Colours: Vibrant and bold colour palettes are making a comeback, with sarees in shades like electric blue, emerald green, and fiery red stealing the spotlight. As well as metallic shades especially for engagement/sangeet is really trending, as these occasions are less traditional and more like a cocktail party nowadays.
- Pre-draped sarees: like a regular draped saree, gown saree, sharara saree, palazzo/ pant saree, slit saree etc. are all for the new generation wanting to embrace the Indian culture of sarees but in their own way to suit their style and individuality.
- Sequin sarees: Manish Malhotra has really brought sequin back by coming out with sequin lehengas and sarees which are now the go to for women looking for a glam quotient in their wardrobe.
- Fish-cut drape saree: with fish-cut being the hottest trend of 2024, it’s no surprise that fish-cut sarees are too trending across the country.
- Well styled Sarees: Traditional sarees are paired with a belt, or draped innovatively or adorned with capes/ jackets. Women are going all out when it comes to styling a saree to up their game in the fashion world.
These trends reflect a blend of tradition and innovation, catering to the diverse tastes and preferences of modern saree enthusiasts.
Conclusion:
The saree’s relevance in Indian fashion today is a testament to its enduring beauty, cultural significance, and adaptability. As designers continue to innovate and global interest in Indian fashion grows, the saree remains a beloved and iconic garment, more relevant than ever in the world of fashion.
