How to Style Ajrakh Sarees for a Trendy Look

Ajrakh saree is an amazing interpretation of Indian art, famous for its motifs printed using the block technique, earthy warm colors, and cultural richness. Emerged from the people of Rajasthan and Gujarat, this saree is the epitome of tradition and fantasy with geometric motifs and earth colors that make it a universal charm for different occasions. How to style an ajrakh saree to a fashion-forward look is achieved by merging its traditional beauty with modern elements such as new-age draping, trendy blouses, and urban accessories. Whether it is an off-the-cuff brunch, a birthday party, or an evening soiree, our solution below will take you through a step-by-step solution for styling an ajrakh saree to achieve a stylish, show-stopper look. So, let’s talk about how to style an ajrakh saree and achieve a chic, show-stopper.

The Beauty of an Ajrakh Saree

An ajrakh saree is not just any fabric; it’s a work of art made laboriously with the block-printing method using natural dyes like indigo, madder, and turmeric. The result is a riot of colors in blues, reds, mustards, and blacks, sometimes blessed with symmetrical motifs like stars, flowers, and geometric patterns. The only one of its kind, this style makes the ajrakh saree a great pick, as it can be dressed classically or in a modern fashion. To get a fashionable look, highlight the handiwork of the saree and incorporating a few modern elements that add to its appeal.

Selecting the Perfect Ajrakh Saree

Beginning with a fashion-forward appearance is to look for a flawless ajrakh saree. Materials to look for include cotton, silk, and modal, each with different texture and drape. For a fashion-forward, casual appearance, go for a light modal or cotton ajrakh saree, which drape beautifully and can be worn to parties during the day. For party wear, evening parties, or night wear, silky smooth silk ajrakh sarees are apt, adding a glamorous sheen to your attire.

Color is the hallmark of styling an ajrakh saree. Dark indigo, red, and golden mustard are simple colors, but to create a fashionable style, choose sarees with contemporary colors like teal and maroon or light colors like pale pink or pale green. Choose an ajrakh saree with plain borders or random splattered patterns so that the style gets a modern and trendy look. Do not go for very detailed work with heavy borders because they will be too old-fashioned and spoil the modern look which you want to create.

Methods of Draping for Achieving Contemporary Look

The manner in which you drape your ajrakh saree can make it either retro or modern. Some of the methods in which you can drape your saree to make it look modern or contemporary are as follows:

Contemporary Nivi Drape: The classic Nivi drape is a stunning casual wear, but you can give it a contemporary twist by folding the ajrakh saree below your casual waistline for a lifted high-waisted effect. This silhouette stretches the lower half, creating the illusion of height and slenderness in your body. Keep the pleats close to the body and neat so they do not create bulk, and allow the pallu to drape loosely over the shoulder to create a relaxed atmosphere. To give it a modern twist, pin the pallu asymetrically or allow it to fall slightly longer to guide the eye upwards.

Belted Drape: Draping your ajrakh saree over your waist is a new, style-forward trend that gives definition to your waist. A sleek metallic or leather belt in gold, silver, or black that will coordinate with the earthy colors of the saree would be ideal. This trend will work best for light-colored modal or cotton ajrakh sarees and can be paired with casual or semi-formal wear, which will give the outfit a style-forward, belted appearance.

Dhoti-Style Drape: For boho-chic, go for the dhoti-style drape. Wrap the ajrakh saree around your legs to create the effect of trousers and drape the pallu over your shoulder. This look is perfect for showcasing the work of the saree in a beautiful way and is appropriate for day-time functions or for fashionista parties. Go with light accessories so the outfit is the focal point.

Cape Drape: Over your ajrakh saree, wear a light jacket or cape to achieve fusion wear. Drape the saree in a basic manner with minimal folding, and wear it with a cape in a single colour such as beige, white, or black to achieve a trendy overlay. The fashion is perfect for night parties and provides the traditional elegance of the ajrakh saree with a contemporary touch.

Occasion-Based Styling Ideas

Casual Outing: Cotton ajrakh saree is dressed casually in a white crop top blouse, oxidized silver accessories, and strappy sandals. Go for a low-key Nivi drape and sling bag for a laid-back look.

Office Attire: Combine a modal ajrakh saree with a beige or navy blue shirt blouse. Incorporate a plain pair of shoes, subtle gold jewelry, a sleek tote bag, and loafers for a professional and stylish appearance.

Festive Occasions: Pair a peplum blouse silk ajrakh saree in a complementary color. Add statement earrings, metallic clutch, and belted drapes.

Evening Parties: Cover a dhoti-style drape over an indigo ajrakh saree, with an off-shoulder blouse and chunky accessories. Pair with stilettos and a chic clutch for drama.

Care of Your Ajrakh Saree

To keep your ajrakh saree’s colorful and fashionable appearance, do take good care of it. Wash the saree manually or dry clean it in a manner such that the natural dyes become robust and the color does not get bleached out, using gentle detergents. Keep it wrapped in a muslin cloth to prevent the fabric from getting damaged, and iron it with less heat to preserve its texture. 

Wrapping It Up 

Designing a handloom saree with a fashion touch is not just about merging its traditional weaving process with modern style. Right from the selection of the right fabric and color to the drape pattern, blouses, and accessories, each choice is made with the intention of creating a fashion-forward garment. Whether it’s an outdoor picnic, an office function, or a festive celebration, the handloom ajrakh saree offers endless opportunities to express your fashion sense. By combining its intricate traditional designs with a touch of modernity, you can wear it confidently to make a striking, fashion-forward statement.