Belted saris are in!

Since time immemorial, ornaments and jewels have been fascinating the world, with the oldest among all the adornments being the kamarband or waistband.

Usually made of gold, silver, precious stones and diamonds, they are generally seen on brides, royals and pictures of goddesses. Although kamarbands are not regularly used these days, modern-day fashionistas have found a contemporary counterpart — belts.

From actresses Shilpa Shetty to Sonam Kapoor and Shruti Hassan among several others, belted saris are a growing rage among the fashion-conscious brigade.

Experts say that the style is here to stay. Designer Shruti Sancheti says, “Indian ladies have beautiful waistlines and a kamarband was used to accentuate that feature. However, in this present day, a kamarband would be restrictive and reserved just for traditional engagements. Belts have replaced their traditional counterparts as they are modern, versatile, easy to maintain and cost effective. Whether it is a normal belt, an obi belt, judo, embellished or even a sharp leather/suede belt, there are various styles, patterns and thicknesses to add drama and definition. Plain or printed saris look great with embellished belts, while woven saris look perfect with an obi belt.”

Designer Urvashi Kaur agrees. “Belts give a modern edge to the sari. It brings in an element of peppiness and is an interesting way of styling a sari. We have seen saris paired with shirts and kurtas, and a belt just adds the edge. It gives a very young vibe to the whole idea.”

Designer Rocky S says, “Designers have consistently been giving the good old sari a modern twist. Depending on one’s personality, one can adapt various trends and versions of this ever-evolving humble six-yard drape. Like kamarbands, belts help maintain a woman’s figure while bringing versatility. They perfectly complement the Indian body type and are a trendy way to spruce up a traditional get-up. They are also super-functional and give lots of room to experiment. One can personalise, depending on the occasion, body-type and personality.”

However, designers caution that one should analyse the occasion before using a belt for your sari. Designer Sayantan Sarkar suggests, “Belts add a lot of style but can also make you look like a fashion disaster. Always go for belts and drapes which enhance your beauty and your body. If you have a slim waist, then put on a waist chain or a pearl belt. Do not go for big embellished belts, as it will cover up your beauty and make you look heavier. If you are overweight or have a bulging stomach, then opt for an obi belt, as it covers up the problem areas and helps create an illusionary curvy figure. And lastly, go for belts which match the sari in colour or pattern. While saris can be worn just the way you want, it is best to drape it in a traditional way and add a style statement with a chic belt.”

Suggesting different ways to wear the belt, designer Aashima Behl says, “To create a smart look, you can wear your sari in the pleated pallu style and tie a belt around the waist. Studded and leather belts will give you an indo-western look while belting up your designer lehenga choli can give you a whole new makeover for a wedding. Create a boho-chic look by donning a kurti and accessorise it with a metallic belt.”

Urvashi adds, “A belt over an off-shoulder corset blouse with the pallu tucked in, or a belt over a pleated sari with a structured jacket and just a single accessory like a cuff, are ways to go on the dramatic side. The idea is to keep it simple and clean, and not go overboard.”