Ikat sarees are traditional sarees from Odisha, Telangana, and Gujarat known for their distinctive weaving techniques and prints. While traditionally reserved for cultural occasions like weddings and festivals, more and more women are now styling them for modern events like parties and family gatherings. Their heritage beauty fits right in with the vintage trends and nostalgia effect that is huge in the fashion scene today. However, a traditional saree doesn’t always have to be old-fashioned. With a few smart styling choices, you can make vintage prints of the Ikat sarees modern. Here are a few contemporary styling ideas to give your ikat saree a fresh new look.
What Are Ikat Sarees?
Before we move on to the styling part, let’s first understand in detail what Ikat sarees are. These are handloom sarees made using the ikat resist-dyeing technique. The yarns are dyed into specific patterns before they are woven into the fabric. This creates distinctive blurred, geometric, or slightly irregular patterns that Ikat is renowned for. Ikat sarees can feature geometric designs, traditional patterns, stripes, and bold color combinations, making them suitable for both occasional wear and everyday wear.
Contemporary Ikat Sarees Styling Ideas
Pair With Statement Blouses
The easiest way to modernize your Ikat designer sarees is to pair them with a statement blouse. Since these sarees often feature intricate geometric patterns and multiple colors, choosing a solid colored blouse can help create a cohesive look. Pick one shade from the saree for a coordinated look or choose a contrasting color for a more striking combination. A sleeveless, halter neck, square neck or structured blouse can add a hint of modernity to your otherwise traditional look.
Keep the Jewelry Statement-Making Yet Simple
Because Ikat sarees already have strong patterns, you can keep the jewelry relatively simple. Silver earrings, chunky bangles, small pendant chain all work. For a more contemporary look, choose one statement piece and keep the rest simple. You can also choose jewelry with modern designs for a stylish appearance. For simpler ikat sarees, you can experiment with layered necklaces, larger earrings, or stacked bangles to add more visual interest. The idea is to create a balanced look where the jewelry complements the saree’s distinctive weave rather than competing with it.
Add A Belt for a Defined Look
Adding a belt to an ikat saree is an easy way to add visual interest to its silhouette and give it a defined look. A belt worn around the waist can define the saree’s structure while keeping the pleats and pallu neatly in place. For a coordinated look, choose a belt that picks up one of the colors in the saree or opt for a metallic belt for a subtle contrast. Fabric and embellished belts can also work well for festive occasions, while a simple belt suits simple, everyday styling. The belted look pairs well with a fitted or cropped blouse, as it creates a clean and balanced look.
Experiment With Draping Styles
Changing the way an Ikat saree is draped can give the traditional weave a fresh new look. Instead of keeping the pallu in the conventional style, you can try a neatly pleated pallu, a belt-secured drape, or a more structured arrangement that highlights the printed saree. Keeping the pallu crisp can help showcase ikat’s distinctive geometric patterns, while a shorter or more neatly arranged pallu can create a cleaner silhouette. The draping style can also be adapted according to the occasion. An effortless drape can work well for daytime gatherings, while a more structured style can add polish to evening or festive looks.
The Takeaway
Ikat sarees can be styled in many contemporary ways while retaining the beauty and character of the traditional weave. From modern blouses to statement draping styles, these ideas can make the Ikat saree versatile for today’s occasions.
