The saree is not just for weddings
Pratibha Upreti Sharma is a content creator and visual storyteller. She is a digital creator who experiments with fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and everyday conundrums. She is an Engineer and an HR by profession. LESS ... MORE
For many of us, the saree holds a special place in our wardrobe. It often comes out wrapped in nostalgia, worn during weddings, festivals, or traditional functions — draped with precision, styled with jewellery, and stored away once the occasion ends. Older generation still prefers to wear sarees every day and with grace. But, somewhere in between generations and functions, we have kept our sarees away, waiting for a wedding invite for it to make an appearance again.
Today's fashion landscape is changing — embracing comfort, culture, and individuality. And amidst this shift, the saree is stepping confidently into everyday life. No longer confined to ceremonies, this six-yard wonder is proving it can be just as perfect for a coffee date as it is for a grand reception.
Wearing a saree is not about going 'all out' — it's about ease, elegance, and expression. From the breathable cotton sarees ideal for Indian summers to buttery-soft mulmul and linen options that feel like second skin, sarees can be incredibly comfortable.
There's also something beautifully empowering about slipping into one. It makes you feel connected to tradition, to generations of women who wore it before you, and to a culture that's ever-evolving.
Here are some everyday situations where the saree fits in effortlessly — no glitz required.
At work: Pair a light cotton saree with a collared blouse or even a long-sleeve top. Neutral tones or pastel shades keep things professional. For those in creative fields, adding prints or belts can infuse personality without losing the polish.
At casual outings: Whether it's brunch with friends, a gallery visit, or even a day at the market — a printed saree styled with a tucked-in T-shirt or a crop top feels relaxed yet distinct. Add oxidised jewellery or statement earrings and you're done.
At home:
Yes, even at home, just like the previous generations. Sarees made from soft cotton or mulmul feel breathable and comforting, making them ideal loungewear for those who love a touch of old-school grace in their everyday routine.
Styling the saree for today's woman
Blouses, reinvented : Move beyond the classic blouse. Think button-down shirts, denim jackets, turtlenecks, or short kurtas.
Draping with a twist : Experiment with the seedha pallu, dhoti drape, or even layering your saree with trousers underneath for a fusion feel.
Footwear freedom
: Traditional kolhapuris or even contemporary sneakers — pick what suits your vibe.
These styling choices not only give the saree a modern update but also make it approachable for the younger generation who often see it as too formal or complicated.
As someone who loves dressing up (and dressing down in style), I believe the saree has endless potential beyond traditional settings. Wearing it shouldn't feel like a costume. It should feel natural, expressive, and empowering — something that resonates with how we live today.
Let's not wait for a wedding card to pull out our silks, chiffons, or cottons. Let's make space for the saree in the everyday — whether it's a boardroom, a café, or a quiet Sunday morning.
Because the saree, much like the women who wear it, is timeless, versatile, and always relevant.
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Views expressed above are the author's own.
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