Whenever we picture our mother, we can think of her dressed in a saree, taking care of everybody’s needs. Saree is one of the most elegant attires of an Indian woman. It’s not just the way it is draped but a mear thought of a Saree makes us feel something special and gives a feel- at-home feeling. I have always seen my mom in Sarees. She has never tried Salwar Suits. She was a working woman and had a huge collection of Sarees. Being a little girl, I used to admire her collection but more than that what used to wonder me all the times was how come she wears it so quickly and get ready for work in no time? Practice may be. That’s what I used to think.

 

Today, my 1o-year daughter asks me the same question. History repeats itself. Isn’t? Living in the USA, I do not get a lot of occasions to wear it. But I try to wear it as much as I can. She admires Saree as much as she does Western wear. She knows when mom wears a Saree, there is something special. This much is enough for me when she, who is born in the USA, understands its importance and associates it with something special and auspicious.

 

 

With time, Saree has undergone a lot of changes but without any doubt, it is still considered as one of the most elegant attires. Indian cinema is the major reason behind this shift. To me, this is the ever-green attire which can be worn on any occasion. A few accessories to go along with it and you have a new look. Can you recall Gayatri Joshi from the movie Swades? She has been shown wearing Cotton Sarees throughout the movie. There is some kind of charisma that she has created in that attire. Simple yet elegant. Isn’t? I think it is mainly because of the value system that we hold and associate with India’s traditional costume. A few days back, I came across an article which talked about the evolution of saree.    

 

Today, we save this attire for functions or weddings. We shop for sarees keeping in mind some upcoming wedding or special event. Saree has the power to spellbound everyone with your looks. If you have to wear it on a casual occasion or say at your workplace then what things you would like to keep in mind? Here I am sharing my take on this.

 

• Nicely pinned Saree: I prefer to pin the pallu and pleats. It gives a neat look and doesn’t come in your way while doing some work.

 

• Colors: The way saree is draped, it reveals your skin little bit. Try to avoid transparent material if you are wearing it as your workplace. If you prefer light colors then printed saree would be a better option.

 

• Hair-do: Gotten bored of braids? How about a bun hair-do and Chinese sticks to go with that?

 

• Accessories: Women cannot go without accessories. Personally, I do not like very big earrings. Your accessories should always be according to the size and shape of your face. Antique, brass, terracotta or silver jhumkas would be my choice.

 

Even though, Saree is supposed to the traditional attire but cinema and fashion industry have given us many modern ways of wearing it. Saree is the epitome of Indian diversity and culture and it will continue to remain the same.