Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Metamorphosis of My Favourite Drape

I know the title sounds a bit technical, but I think it will do. I am talking about my favourite drape- Saree. It is such an elegant part of the Indian culture and one can go on and on about it.

My childhood's integral part was playing 'Ghar Ghar' (make-believe house) and making tea and treats for my friends or going to their make-believe home for a treat. The rules were that we have to be dressed in Saree. Adorning this beautiful drape was my favourite part and of course accessorising it . Though a little me had to do with a 'dupatta' for draping. My this love for saree was indulged by my grandfather, who got it tailor made for me on my 4th birthday. Inventing new styles of draping and at times stumbling because of it was everyday activity back then.

On the left Dupatta draped as Saree  and on the right tailored Saree gifted by grandfather

Playing around with saree is nothing new, though I am yet to learn the perfect way to drape it with beautiful pleats. I tend to hold on to some of the pretty sarees which my mom is to throw out. I had previously made a Princess Line Dress (blog post - here) from one such saree. So, when I saw the 'Pallu' (part of Saree that covers the upper body) of the saree below and the material, I instantly wanted to make a Kimono Jacket.



I kept the Pallu for the backside of the jacket, so I folded it on the line of Pallu for about 31" and cut the rest of the saree. For the jacket opening, I cut the front part of the jacket. Here is a pattern that I made for reference of cutting the front side and stitching both the sides to make the jacket:


These are not fixed measurements, you can make it as per your convenience. After cutting, I finished the edges with machine stitch. Neck area was a tricky one, but if you are trying it, hand stitching might be easy and fuss-free. Also added a vintage button and the  finished product was a chic Kimono Jacket.







White top- Forever 21
Shorts - Honey (Pantaloons)

Such an easy-breezy outfit. It is a great add to the wardrobe for a day of fun in the sun. You can try it out with any scarf too, it was my original idea but was tempted by this print. Also, tried a hairstyle similar to Disney princess Jasmin, which as you can see is very easy. 

Let me know your thoughts on this story in the comments below.

Until next time,

Love,
Lazygul<3