Some people collect shoes. I collect stories — the kind woven into fabrics, stitched into borders, and wrapped in emotion. If you’ve ever stood in front of a mirror wearing a flowing anarkali or draped a crisp saree, you know what I mean. There’s something about Indian ethnic wear that just makes you feel… you.
My First Love: The Saree
Let me start with sarees. I still remember my first one — a simple handloom cotton saree my mother lent me for a family function. I must’ve spent half an hour trying to pleat it right (and let’s just say the YouTube tutorial didn’t help much). But when I finally looked in the mirror, it wasn’t just a piece of fabric — it was power, grace, and nostalgia all rolled into one.
That’s the thing about sarees — they’re not just clothes, they’re heirlooms. Each one tells a story. A Banarasi silk saree whispers tales of Varanasi weavers, a chiffon saree carries the glamour of old Bollywood, and a crisp linen saree speaks of quiet elegance.
Now, we’re seeing younger women falling in love with them again — pairing sarees with crop tops, sneakers, belts, and even denim jackets (and honestly, it looks pretty darn cool). I love how versatile this six-yard wonder has become. Whether you’re dressing up for a wedding or just heading to a friend’s get-together, there’s always a saree that fits the vibe.
The Anarkali Obsession
And then, there’s the anarkali — oh, where do I even begin? If the saree makes me feel elegant, the anarkali makes me feel like royalty. Every time I wear one, I can’t resist doing a little twirl (yes, even if I’m running late).
The beauty of anarkalis is how they flatter every body type. Whether you’re tall, petite, curvy, or slim, the long, flowy silhouette just hugs you in the right places and flares out beautifully. From floor-length festive pieces with gota patti and mirror work to breezy cotton ones you can wear to brunch — there’s literally an anarkali for every mood.
My personal favorite? A pastel georgette anarkali with delicate embroidery that I wore for a daytime wedding. It was light, elegant, and drew compliments from every direction. And the best part — I didn’t have to worry about drapes or pins (saree fans, you know the struggle!).
Why These Two Never Go Out of Style
Between the saree and the anarkali, I’ve realized that Indian fashion has a way of blending tradition with personality. These aren’t “old-school” outfits anymore. They’ve evolved — and how! Designers are constantly reimagining them in new fabrics, cuts, and colors. A handwoven saree can look modern with a halter blouse, and an anarkali can turn edgy with metallic tones or jacket layers.
It’s also about connection — to our roots, our families, and our sense of identity. Every time I see my mom drape her saree with that effortless flick or my niece spin around in her little anarkali, I feel that connection deepen.
If you ask me to choose between a saree and an anarkali — I simply can’t. The saree is my heritage; the anarkali is my mood. One gives me poise, the other gives me flair. And both, in their own ways, make me feel like the best version of myself.
So the next time you open your wardrobe, don’t just pick an outfit — pick a story. Whether it’s a twirl or a drape, wear it with pride. Because these classics? They never go out of style — they just find new ways to fall in love again.