How to Accessorize Sarees for a Modern Ethnic Look

Though sarees are a complete attire in themselves. Indian women have been accessorising it for centuries. Kamarbandhs, jhumkas, long necklaces and armbands have played an important role in adorning women in more ways than one.

Times have changed but women decking their sarees with different ornaments according to occasions have not changed yet. In current times, women have started introducing their personal taste while pairing saree accessories for modern look.

Wondering which accessory would suit you better? Let us explore a wide array of saree styling tips and what accessories go best with a saree for a modern look.

What accessories go best with saree for modern look?

Sarees are traditional and ethnic attire, but when paired with the right accessories, they can create a balanced contemporary look. For instance, adding a statement piece of jewellery, like a choker or earrings, can shift the focus from a basic look to an artistic charm. Replacing the blouse with crop tops, tank tops, or halter necks can enhance the overall saree silhouette.

Play with tradition and modernity by creating a fusion ensemble with sling bags, clutches, or mini-purses. Similarly, belts are not limited to western wear, gold or silver waist chains along with leather or metallic belts can create a defined and contemporary look.

What belt works best with saree styling?

Using a belt for accessorising the saree is a great way to elevate your curves while defining your midriff. Though, you can experiment with different types of belts and similar accessories, following options will help you style saree accessories in a voguish manner.

Metallic belt: Metallic belts in silver, gold and copper colours can be used for an ethnic and modern touch to give it a royal look. This type of belt goes with traditional sarees like Banarasi, silk, and with the ones with heavy zari work.

Leather belts: Leather belts are an urbane option to choose for styling your sarees. They go well with cotton or linen sarees. Make sure to choose a slim leather belt as it gives a soft presentation.

Fabric belts:  Experiment with the belts that are either made of same fabric or contrasting fabric that not only defines the saree presentation but also brings out the beauty of the waist in the ethnic attire. Thus, giving a stylish, subtle, indo-western look.

Kamar bandhs: Kamar bandhs are one of the most ancient and traditional accessories in India. Many states around the Indian region showcase Kamar bandhs in different shape and forms. While some are heavy in design and craftsmanship others are minimal with a tiny chain or little design to it. These waist chains easily accentuate a simple tied-up saree into a snappy fit.

Corset belts: While most corsets are used as a blouse, corset belts are added to a saree to take the ethnic to a modern style statement. They are comparatively broader creating a structured silhouette.

How to pair footwear with a saree?

You may be ready with your favourite saree but pairing it with a complementary footwear that completes your look can be a challenge. Here are a few suggestions that will help you pick the right footwear according to your style and comfort:

Heels: Heels are commonly paired with sarees as pleats fall elegantly on the tall stature that it provides. You can experiment with pencil heels or other types of heels with different sizes according to your comfort.

Wedges: Wedges are another sort of heels that offers more grip while walking when you are busy carrying your saree without compromising on the chic look that comes while wearing it.

Juttis and Mojris: Juttis or Mojris are traditional wear with embroidery or mirror work. These are flat footwear with distinct patterns that offer comfort.

Flats: Flats like kolhapuris, embellished mules, and ballet flats provide the ease of balance and comfort. They can easily be paired with cotton and casual sarees along with daily wear ones.

Sneakers: Today’s generation is pairing sneakers with sarees. This not only provides comfort but an ease that is required in our busy lives. Adding a little edge to your look, you can choose sneakers with traditional embroidery or mirror work.

How to style saree with statement jewellery?

Styling a saree with statement jewellery creates a bold and luxurious presentation. When styling a saree, the objective should be to balance the look or create a focal point that complements the entire ensemble. Wondering how will you achieve that? These tips will help you.

Create one point of attraction: You can wear thread earrings, a bold choker or a statement necklace. Resist wearing too many jewels to create an overwhelming look.

Keep it minimal: If you are pairing your saree with jhumkas or chandbalis, make sure that you wear a delicate neckpiece to keep the attention around your face.

Shift the Focus: Wearing a subtle neckline and adorning it with a necklace can easily bring eyes to your neck area. Thus, giving you a balanced look.

Make the right choice: Carry one piece of jewellery that defines your look and the rest of the pieces minimal and subtle. For instance, if you are wearing a saree with a border, avoid bangles or armbands. Instead invest in a choker necklace that accentuates your neckline.

How to style saree with minimal accessories?

Styling a saree does not mean shifting the attention to different elements. It should create a comprehensive outfit that beautifully sits with each other. While you want to look your best, the overall apparel should be sophisticated and polished. Read on to find out something that can help you.

Pick one jewellery piece that goes well with your saree. The blouse of the saree is another important element that can make or break your look. Try to keep it basic. Choosing simple block heels, strapped sandals or comfortable flats is another great idea to keep it minimal, yet suave.

Similarly, pairing your saree with a clutch bag and keeping the makeup minimal with clean hairstyle can give you a refined look. The secret is to choose a statement saree and add elements that would simply supplement your overall look.

what accessories to wear with plain saree?

A plain saree is one of the most versatile outfits one can wear. It can be styled in many ways to give a subtle yet fancy display. How will you achieve that look? Create the magic with the help of following accessories:

Add a statement jewellery piece so that it upgrades the aura of your saree. Thus, giving it a rich look.

Style your plain saree with a belt or Kamar bandh. Either a metallic belt or a leather one would offer you that indo-western look you were aspiring for.

Carrying a stylish sling bag, clutch, or even a potli with hand embroidery can elevate a simple saree’s look.

Footwear is an important accessory that you can pair with simple and plain sarees. Choose jutti, heels or comfy flats as per the occasion.

Hair style and hair accessories are an easy way of styling. You can put a fresh Gajra or fancy hairpins to keep it minimal yet simply you.

FAQs

How do you accessorize a saree for a modern ethnic look?

Accessorising a saree for a modern ethnic look is very simple. You can add a statement choker, earrings, heels, mojris or a sling bag. Also, you may keep your makeup and hairstyle clean, subtle and natural for a polished look.

What jewellery should I wear with a saree for a contemporary style?

For a contemporary style, choose elegant yet bold pieces. Try to wear a statement piece like a choker or earrings and oxidised pieces for a balanced look. Avoid wearing too many traditional jewellery sets and focus on a single piece.

Can I wear a belt with a saree, and how do I style it?

Yes, of course you can wear a belt with a saree. It is very much in fashion and loved by many. You may wear a metallic, leather or sleek gold Kamar bandh to elevate the waistline presentation and give it a more structured look.

Which footwear works best with modern saree outfits?

Wedges, block heels or heels work best with modern saree outfits as these allow the drape to fall easily and elegantly. They also provide good height and posture overall, creating a more balanced silhouette.

How do I accessorize a saree without looking overdressed?

Focus more on neat and clean hairstyles and natural makeup. For accessories, you may add minimal jewels, a statement piece and comfortable yet suitable footwear. Sling bags and sleek clutches can also carefully add a beautiful charm to your overall presentation.