Fashion is a journey in history, especially with India's constantly evolving culture. There is a new sense of experimentation within the traditional that aims to transform fashion staples that have defined our communities for centuries. This evolution finds its pulse in a reinvention of traditional staples like the saree blouse, Pachchikam jewellery, and mundu-veshti. It involves a seamless transition from cultural symbols to modern-day style statements.
These timeless elements are no longer just relics of the past. We can say that growing up, we saw these elements as part of our obligation to our tradition but slowly, while developing our own styles, we found beauty in them in our everyday life. They’ve emerged as vibrant canvases where heritage finally goes out and meets modernity, breathing life into contemporary everyday fashion. In a world fixated on the fleeting nature of trends and new concepts, we no longer need to mindlessly pursue the new but instead, can choose to make use of the beauty that is inherently in Indian craftsmanship, a beauty that proves that the ideology of true style is rooted in stories, memories, and reinvention.
A component in the essence of the typical saree wearer is the infamous saree blouse. We’ve seen its journey through its colonial influences but it has since become an enduring symbol of self-expression in a typical Indian household. In our current era, we have seen India reinventing this colonial concept of the blouse. Designers and wearers have taken an alternative look at it and decided to use this humble garment in a manner that goes far beyond its traditional pairing with sarees.
Today, we see how it’s a versatile piece that can be styled with jeans, skirts, or even layered under a fur coat. Many new silhouettes have taken shapes such as cropped, bold prints, and experimental cuts, all of which have transformed this household staple into a fashion-forward statement, blurring the line between tradition and sartorial innovation.
It comes naturally to India to have the most extraordinary varieties of accessories but jewellery, in particular, is an intrinsic object of its traditional identity. Indian jewellery traditions have always been a celebration of artistic beauty and identity and there is no limit to the discovered and undiscovered lands of these loved metal pieces. These ornate objects decorate our bodies and give us a sense of belonging. In India, you can categorize these metal pieces into many genres and names. Among the myriad, is Pachchikam jewellery, which comes from Gujarat and Kutch. This intricate craft stands apart with its use of soft metals like silver that are adorned with glass beads and semi-precious stones. While traditionally cherished for its fragile elegance, never leaving the Indian closet and being a must-have for years in every household, Pachchikam has found new life as a bold, everyday accessory, finding its way into everything from a casual brunch to thrifting expeditions.
Contemporary adaptations also see these delicate pieces styled with everything from structured power suits to suave turtlenecks for a cold day. Oversized rings, chokers, and statement earrings blend antique charm with modern minimalism, creating a striking contrast that connects seamlessly with today’s fashion-forward crowd.
This revival, other than being essential, is part of a broader movement to reimagine Indian metal jewellery. Other types of Indian jewellery, such as Tarakashi’s delicate silver filigree from Odisha, Meenakari’s vibrant enamel work, and the regal allure of Kundankari are all finding renewed relevance in modern wardrobes. By pairing traditional techniques with contemporary design sensibilities, Indian jewellery continues to redefine the boundaries of style. It excites us to see how it will continue to do so.
The mundu-veshti, a draped garment rooted in South Indian traditions, is often worn during religious ceremonies, weddings, and special occasions due to its auspicious nature. With its minimalistic design and sheer versatility, this unique traditional dress is appreciated for its comfort and adaptability to different climates. Its airiness also makes it a practical choice for everyday wear in the region. Now in our current fashion era, we have seen it in its new form as a tool of creative exploration, making it a favourite across both global and urban fashion landscapes.
With the ever-growing culture of Bohemian chic and pleaded skirts, the mundu-veshti has been playing a huge role in adapting itself to both these common styles and are often styled with a formal shirt or paired with graphic tees and sneakers. Some even chose to make it into hybrid silhouettes that blend Indian and Western aesthetics. Ethnic jackets or printed dupattas layered over the mundu-veshti add vibrancy, making it suitable for everyday wear and bringing its traditional style to the streets.
This resurgence of traditional staples in street style is more than just a fleeting aesthetic — it’s a cultural renaissance. The saree blouse, Pachchikam jewellery, and mundu-veshti don’t just adorn; they tell stories of origin, artistry, and resilience. By reinterpreting these classics, today’s designers and wearers bridge the gap between past and present, crafting a narrative that’s both deeply rooted and refreshingly modern.
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