A rooted revival: Traditional woven saris get a Gen Z twist

India Today

29-04-2025

Elegant, classy and timeless, saris have a charm of their own. Be it a Banarasi, Kanjeevaram, Chanderi or Tussar silk, each weave and style tells its own story and lends the wearer an edgy appeal. Wearing saris has always been popular with the fashion conscious; and now, millennials and Gen Z are bringing a refreshing and modern perspective to traditional woven saris while appreciating their rich cultural heritage.The fusion of traditional woven saris with modern elements, such as crop tops, asymmetrical blouses or even jackets, allows them to maintain the elegance of the woven fabric while incorporating a fresh, youthful vibe. So, pairing a classic Banarasi sari with a structured, modern blouse or a Kanjeevaram sari with a chic, minimalist crop top is a trendy choice.advertisementMillennials and Gen Z are even reworking classic draping styles with modern touches. Imagine the Maharashtrian drape, pant style drape or Bengali drape giving a fresh, comfortable twist to traditional styles. They might, for instance, opt for a more contemporary way to tie the Kanjeevaram or Banarasi sari, draping it over pants or adding pleats that give it a sleek, polished look.WHOLE NINE YARDS
Social media influencers and celebrities have also played a big role in making saris trendy again. According to Nishant Malhotra, founder and CEO of WeaverStory, a handmade artisanal textiles brand, 'Millennials and Gen Z are embracing saris, especially for special occasions. They are experimenting with unique draping styles, pairing saris with crop tops, belts or sneakers to give them a modern twist.'Bollywood stars, such as Priyanka Chopra, Alia Bhatt and Sonam Kapoor, have frequently showcased traditional woven saris with modern twists, which has encouraged Gen Z and millennials to embrace these fabrics more confidently. Their outfits often feature traditional woven silks paired with contemporary accessories, such as sneakers, statement jewellery and minimalist blouses.advertisementBright, bold colours are popular choices among the young. Traditional woven saris that once came in more muted or rich colours are now being embraced in playful and vibrant hues, such as pastels, neon pinks and electric blues. 'Young fashion enthusiasts might wear a Kanjeevaram sari in a bright, unexpected colour, such as peach or lavender for a daytime event, or a Banarasi sari with unique motifs and colours, combining traditional weaving techniques with fresh hues,' says Malhotra.Another trend is where millennials and Gen Z are drawn to vintage-inspired fashion, and this extends to their love for traditional woven saris. They often look at retro influences for styling and accessories, reviving old-school Bollywood looks or traditional south Asian silhouettes. A vintage-inspired Ikat sari styled with retro accessories, such as statement sunglasses, a sleek clutch, or a bold lip colour, brings a nostalgic yet forward-thinking approach to the traditional attire.TRADITION MEETS MODERNWhile traditional woven saris are often seen as a formal attire, the younger generation is adapting them for casual or semi-formal events. They are also using saris for day-to-day wear rather than just for weddings or grand occasions. 'Pairing a lightweight Banarasi sari with a simple, casual blouse or opting for a Patola sari with a simple, everyday top can make it more wearable for office settings or informal gatherings,' says Malhotra.advertisementMillennials and Gen Z are embracing saris in creative ways, often mixing old and new to suit their personal styles. The key to the popularity of saris among the young lies in the fusion of tradition with modernity, making saris relevant and stylish in the contemporary fashion world.Subscribe to India Today Magazine