The most interesting designer saris spotted at Lakmé Fashion Week

Whether it’s handwoven or hand-embroidered, a sari not only makes for a quintessential piece of clothing in every woman’s wardrobe, but can also double up as an heirloom that is passed down from mother to daughter. Vogue spotted all varieties and hybrids possible of the much-adored six-yard staple at Lakmé Fashion Week’s summer/resort 2019, right from saris made out of sustainable Tencel fibres to trouser-style iterations.

While florals for spring may not be groundbreaking, the way they were used on saris this season brought a fresh spin to the popular motif. Designer Anita Dongre presented an eco-friendly collection comprising lightweight saris in vibrant prints, and Rohit Bal turned to the darker side of the colour palette with floral printed saris in black, one of which came layered with a rose-embroidered cape. Varun Bahl introduced his prêt line that incorporated prints created out of a five-petal flower sketch, as seen on his white sari featuring blue and yellow floral prints. Anushree Reddy’s dark blue number featured coral pink and green flowers intricately embroidered on the border.

Handloom saris shared equal limelight on the runway—designers Sailesh Singhania, Parvathi Dasari, Anka and Latha showcased traditional weaves that are sure to serve as a classic piece in every millennial’s ethnic wardrobe—and ruffle tiered saris got their moment too, lending a feminine touch with their dreamy hues of candy floss pink (showcased by Shehlaa by Shehla Khan) and mellow yellow (spotted at Anushree Reddy). Details like tassels and pearls worked as decorations on saris as well, as seen at Payal Singhal and Shivan & Narresh respectively.

Accessories like belts added a contemporary touch to saris, and designers like Punit Balana, Shantanu & Nikhil, Shivan & Narresh and Anka used everything from printed belts to studded belts to update the look. Meanwhile, sari blouses saw myriad options: structured shirts at Jajaabor, statement sleeve blouses at Payal Singhal, bandhgala-inspired crop tops with military influences at Shantanu & Nikhil and strappy embellished ones at Sukriti & Aakriti made an impact. Anavila’s embellishment-free saris in bright natural colours and dyes caught our attention for lazy summer brunches, and Shantanu & Nikhil showcased a contemporary range for girls who always struggle with draping issues—a trouser-style sari.

Scroll ahead to take a look at the best saris we spotted at Lakmé Fashion Week summer/resort 2019.

Also read:

The incredible history of the traditional Parsi Gara sari

The sari draper to Bollywood celebrities lets us in on her top tips

Where to buy pure Kanchipuram silk saris for your wedding wardrobe