As much as gender fluidity reigned as the dominant theme of Lakme Fashion Week’s Summer/Resort 2017, designers couldn’t resist the occasional nod to the traditional drape. Pre-constructed silhouettes were everywhere because — let’s be honest — few urban millenials can claim mastery over the drape. By dictating the structure, designers were free to roll the dice with fabric choices.
Shweta Kapur’s polyester metallic sari shone bright at one end of the spectrum, while Sailesh Singhania stuck to hand-spun khadi with real gold zari. Nupur Kanoi turned to Gujarat’s famous bandhini technique on silk while Payal Singhal chose a sexier route with her sheer saris.
Wondering what to add to your wardrobe this summer? Pick your favourite from among our top picks.
Summer saris you’re going to love
431-88 by Shweta KapurWhen your best friend's cocktail party is threatening to turn into an all-night rager, this metallic pre-draped ensemble will be your saving grace.
Ka-Sha by Karishma Shahani Warning: Guaranteed to start many, many conversations.
Payal SinghalYoga-toned body that deserves to be showed off? Payal Singhal's sheer number is happy to do the honours.
Sailesh SinghaniaRomanticism ruled at Sailesh Singhania, where organza blouses were paired with hand-spun khadi saris. Valentine's Day dinner for two, maybe?
Divya ShethGingham that won't make you look like a Kansas prairie girl, served up fresh by Divya Sheth.
Amoh by JadeWe're ready to hit the sangeet dance floor in this pre-constructed sari with dhoti pants.
Naushad AliBegone annoying pallu that refuses to stay in place without an army of pins. Naushad Ali's sleeved sari is just, plain smart.
Nupur KanoiContemporary bandhini in a pre-draped sari? We could get on board with that,