Millennials Guide: Styling Traditional Attire Chicly
Odisha, the land of rich tradition and heritage, is renowned for its exquisite handloom sarees. From the intricate weaves of Sambalpuri Ikat to the elegant Bomkai and vibrant Kotpad, Odisha sarees are a treasure trove of tradition. While these sarees hold deep cultural significance, many millennials wonder how to make traditional attire more chic and modern. The good thing is that you can style Odisha sarees in trendy, fashionable ways to suit the modern generation.
If you’re a millennial who loves tradition but craves a touch of modernity, this guide is for you! Let’s see how to style Odisha sarees while effortlessly maintaining authenticity.
Understanding Odisha Sarees
Odisha is famous for its various handloom sarees, each with a unique weaving technique and design. Some of the most popular types include Sambalpuri sarees, known for intricate ikat weaving, vibrant colors, and motifs inspired by nature and mythology. Rich thread work on the pallu and borders of Bomkai sarees, which combine tribal and traditional art, makes them perfect for weddings and other festive occasions.
Artisans extract organic dyes from the roots of the aal tree to make Kotpad sarees. These eco-friendly, lightweight sarees offer soft, earthy tones with simple yet elegant patterns. They perfectly suit all-day wear. The traditional temple borders and luxurious appeal distinguish Berhampuri silk sarees; people often wear them at Odia weddings and festivals. Khandua sarees, famously used in the Jagannath Temple rituals, feature religious verses woven into the fabric and are crafted from lightweight silk with an aesthetic charm.
How Millennials Can Make Odisha Sarees Chic?
Modern fashion is all about blending tradition with modern elements. Here’s how millennials can style Odisha sarees effortlessly:
Experiment with Draping Styles
Your saree’s entire appearance can be changed by how you drape it. While the Nivi drape is classic, millennials can explore contemporary styles like:
- Belted Saree: Pair your Odisha saree with a statement belt to add structure and a chic edge.
- Pant-Style Saree: Instead of a petticoat, drape your saree over tailored trousers for a fusion Indo-western look.
- Cape Drape: For a dramatic effect, layer your saree with a sheer or embroidered cape instead of a blouse.
- Pre-Stitched Saree: If you’re always on the go, consider a pre-stitched or ready-to-wear drape that allows you to flaunt your saree effortlessly.
Modern Blouse Designs
A trendy blouse can make all the difference in creating a traditional saree look that is contemporary. Some stylish blouse ideas include:
- Crop Tops: Replace conventional blouses with crop tops in solid colors or quirky prints for a youthful look.
- Cold-Shoulder or Off-Shoulder Blouses: These add a modern flair while keeping the elegance of the saree intact.
- Shirt-Style Blouses: A crisp white or printed shirt tucked into your saree can create a fusion look perfect for office or casual outings.
- Corset Blouses: Channel a bold and sophisticated vibe with structured corset-style blouses.
Accessorize Wisely
The right accessories can elevate your Odisha saree from simple to statement. Here’s what you can try:
- Minimalist Jewelry: Opt for delicate jewelry like dainty necklaces, pearl studs, or thin bangles to keep it classy.
- Boho Vibes: Layered oxidized silver jewelry works well with Sambalpuri and Bomkai sarees for a bohemian touch.
- Statement Earrings: Bold jhumkas or geometric earrings can add a fun yet elegant vibe to your look.
- Belt It Up: Cinch your saree with a metallic or embroidered belt to define your waist and add an edgy element.
- Trendy Bags: Swap out the traditional potli for a sleek clutch, micro bag, or a fanny pack for a contemporary feel.
Enhance Your Footwear Style
The way your saree looks might be significantly influenced by the shoes you wear. Millennials can experiment with:
- Sneakers: Pair your saree with trendy sneakers for a quirky and ultra-modern look.
- Block Heels: Add height and comfort while complementing the saree’s elegance.
- Kolhapuris & Juttis: Perfect for a mix of comfort and traditional charm.
- Boots: If you’re feeling bold, ankle boots under a saree can create a head-turning Indo-western statement.
Play with Colors and Prints
While traditional Odisha sarees come in stunning motifs and color palettes, don’t be afraid to play around with modern color combinations and styling:
- Monochrome Magic: Opt for single-tone sarees and add color with accessories.
- Mix and Match: Pair contrasting blouses with your saree for an unconventional, trendy look.
- Pastel Love: Millennials love pastels! For a softer, contemporary aesthetic, wear pastel-toned Sambalpuri or Bomkai sarees.
- Graphic Prints: If you’re into modern art, look for handloom sarees with abstract or quirky motifs.
Layering is the Key
Layering can add depth to your saree look while making it millennial-friendly:
- Denim Jacket: A denim jacket over a saree creates a cool street-style look.
- Long Shrugs & Capes: Flowy lace or sheer fabric shrugs add a dreamy effect.
- Leather Jacket: Perfect for a bold fusion look that works in winter.
- Blazer or Overcoat: Ideal for work meetings or formal occasions when you want to balance tradition with professionalism.
Hairstyles and Makeup
Your hair and makeup can enhance the contemporary appeal of your Odisha saree:
- Messy Buns & Ponytails: A messy bun with loose strands or a sleek high ponytail adds an effortlessly modern touch.
- Beach Waves: Soft, wavy hair complements the elegance of handloom sarees.
- Bold Lips & Winged Liner: A bright lipstick, such as deep red or plum, paired with a winged liner, creates a classic yet contemporary makeup look.
- Dewy & Minimal: Keep your makeup fresh and minimal for a modern, clean aesthetic.
Fusion Styling for Occasions
Whether it’s a wedding, a festive event, or a casual day out, Odisha sarees can be adapted to suit every occasion:
- Office Wear: A simple Kotpad or Tussar saree with a structured blazer and minimal jewelry.
- Casual Outings: Pair a Sambalpuri saree with a knotted crop top and sneakers.
- Weddings & Festivals: Opt for rich Bomkai or Berhampuri sarees with statement jewelry and bold makeup.
- Brunch & Travel: A pastel Odisha saree with a fun blouse and boho accessories is perfect for daytime outings.
Final Thoughts
Odisha sarees are traditional garments that blend history, artistry, and style. With the right mix of contemporary elements, millennials can effortlessly wear them while staying fashionable. You can style Odisha sarees to suit every occasion, whether for casual outings, festive celebrations, or workwear. By embracing these handwoven treasures, millennials can contribute to sustainable fashion while making a unique style statement.
