Quirky and chic upcycles for your old Banarasi sarees
Repurposing an old Banarasi saree into new attire champions sustainability, honors sentimental value, and offers a personalized touch. Many women prefer to refurbish their mother's wedding saree into their wedding lehenga. Here are some ideas on how you can salvage damaged or challenging-to-wear Banarasi sarees by transforming them into renewed garments, ensuring the continuation of their royal essence in contemporary fashion.
Ethnic half jacket
An elegant ethnic half jacket made from an old Banarasi saree screams regal. Use the saree fabric, retaining borders for details, or use the gorgeous pallu for the jacket. Pair this new garb with a contrasting kurta and trousers for a fusion look. This versatile piece can elevate any outfit, making it a stylish and sustainable fashion choice.
Ethnic pant suit
Pantsuits aren't just for corporate offices anymore, you can rock ethnic pantsuits at traditional functions like weddings. Tailor and style to redefine elegance, harmonizing tradition with contemporary sophistication. Repurpose sarees with sizable motifs into stunning jackets. Salvage the borders, integrating them into trouser hems or jacket sleeves for added flair. Should the border not align with your preference, repurpose it for other creative projects.
Lehenga-choli
The first garment one can think of when repurposing a saree is lehenga-choli. Banarasi fabric, known for its richness and intricate designs, is ideal for creating stunning ethnic wear. Use the pallu for the choli and the body fabric to create a wide-rimmed lehenga. Consider adding a lightweight lining or cancan for volume, or opt for a cancan petticoat underneath for a similar effect.
Dresses
If your saree has a broad border, consider showcasing it in the rim of your dress. Craft a short dress or a flowy gown allowing the border to shine. If the motifs are too traditional for a typical Western dress, sport an Indo-western look by embracing the thick zari border at the rim of your skirt, or make a kurti with the fabric.
