Odisha is the land of art, architecture and rich textiles. It is famous for handloom and handicrafts not only in India but all around the world. Not just aesthetically pleasing, but handloom sarees are extremely comfortable too. They are usually made out of breathable fabrics and are eco-friendly. Let it be Khandua, Ikat, Bomkai or Kotpad, they hold a special place in our hearts. While talking about handloom sarees may sound easy, but styling them according to current trends has been a concern for all.
Here are some options to style your handloom sarees and channel the desi vibe inside you.
All the love for Jewelry
Ethnic wear looks incomplete without the touch of jewelry. Try tribal jewelry to make a statement or German silver jewelry for a muted look. You can wear heavy statement neck-pieces with your handloom saree, keeping your ears minimal. You can even wear a heavy oxidized ring on your finger to make a bolder statement.
Wear your handloom saree with a high neck collared blouse and accessorize with long chandelier earrings or pretty jhumkas. Elegant bangles and bracelets also contemporize the whole look.
Drape it well
While draping your handloom saree the conventional way can seem pretty monotonous, you can try draping it in different styles to create new looks. Wearing your handloom saree with pants with smaller pleats of the pallu, makes the look more sophisticated. Go for a high-neck blouse with full sleeves and tie a belt around your waist to make the look office-friendly. Keep your jewelry minimal and let your handloom saree do all the talking.
You can even drape the saree in a dhoti style and cinch the pallu at your waist using a kamarbandh or even a wide belt. Wear it with an off-shoulder blouse to add some zing to the outfit.
For another look, drape your cotton handloom saree in the front-pallu style, keeping the pleats neat and narrow. Wear it with a collared blouse and a cute neckpiece. Don’t forget that classic clutch to complete the most elegant look.
Choose it well
Starting from silk Khandua sarees to fine cotton Pasapalli sarees, there are plenty of options when it comes to choose a Handloom saree of Odisha. Ranging from vivid colors and textures to subtle neutral shades, everything is available to make your selection difficult. You have to choose the saree well according to the occasion and your body type.
For example, wearing a light-weight Bomkai saree with thin dark borders not only looks stylish, but it also makes you look taller and leaner. Similarly, a heavy double-ikat or Pasapalli saree can be a perfect option for any event, whereas a Kotpad saree can give a more formal look.
Layer it
Fashion styling is all about the layering game and styling handlooms is no different. Wearing them with long hand-woven shrugs and long-line jackets can give an extra oomph to the whole look. You can experiment with different blouse options. You can wear a tonal blouse for a monochromatic look, or go for color-blocking by opting for a contrasting blouse.
Accessories
While an elegant clutch will look great with your handloom saree at a party, a nice handbag will be a perfect accessory to your workplace. Belts can be either of faux leather or even sequined if you are going for a glamorous look.
Try keeping your accessories muted and simple. You can wear sandals, block heels or even pumps with your handloom sarees. If you’re bold enough, you can wear oxford shoes with a formal look.
Hair and Makeup
Kohl is considered the most essential makeup option with ethnic wear for a reason. It defines your eyes and complements your elegant outfit perfectly. Keep the rest of your makeup simple. Go for a nude lip for everyday wear or to work, and a bold red/plum lip for a festival or a party.
You can experiment with almost any kind of hairstyle. While loose messy hair gives a girly and chic touch to your look, a classic sleek bun makes it look more modish. You can even do the fishtail braid; it looks cute with a simple handloom saree.
The handloom sarees can be a luxury and a fashion must-have in your wardrobe. They are rich, elegant and easy-to-carry, making it a perfect option for women of all age-groups. They are not only artistically cultivated, but also give the most dignified look like no other. Wearing the handloom sarees gives an earthy vibe and instantly levels up your personality. So, go ahead and give your personal fashionable spin to the down-to-earth handloom textiles of Odisha.
