Alaya F’s JJ Valaya sari centres its weight at the torso. The midnight-blue silk is densely worked, but it’s the velvet blouse, fully embroidered and cut with a deep neckline and open back, that establishes the look’s gravity. Instead of acting as a support act to the sari, the blouse holds visual dominance, allowing the rest of the ensemble to fall into place around it.
The loosely draped pallu showcases a dense botanical jaal of delicate vines that sprout small blossoms, tendrils, and leafy motifs. This bold yet delicate contrast casts the entire ensemble in a new light. Stylist Sheefa J Gilani gives a modern spin to the traditionals by adding a gold belt to, cutting horizontally across the sari rather than pulling it inward. The placement interrupts the vertical movement of the fabric and shifts attention back to the blouse and border work, changing how the proportions of the look are read.
Statement teardrop earrings from MR Jewels complement her soft-glam makeup, with subtly smoked eyes, a flush of pink blush, nude-pink lips and a small bindi, adding a delicate touch to the richness of the ensemble.
From Vogue’s fashion desk
“The inky indigo, the metallic embroidery and the hardware accessories together carry the statement of the look. Sharpen that mood by belting the sari a little lower, to give it that effortless low-waist feel. Amp up the gloss and add shimmery highlights to the lid to give it that dewy and soft touch to an otherwise heavy look. Keep the hair slick and straight, away from the face,” says Vogue fashion associate Manglien Gangte.
Also read:
Alaya F’s oxblood gown plays with sharp shoulders and a folded waist detail
From Kajol to Malavika Mohanan, this week’s best looks were wrapped in jewel tones and golden zari
Khushi Kapoor’s ivory Tarun Tahiliani lehenga is brought to life with multi-hued crafts
