Kalamkari is one of the oldest textile art forms that originated in India, though some trace its origin to Iran. The name Kalam means pen and Kari meaning craftsmanship. Traditionally, Kalamkari was used in chariot decorations and wall hangings but, subsequently, artists began to use it on sarees. In recent times, Kalamkari textiles are being used for other Indian wear ranging from kurtis to dupattas.
Thanks to fashion-conscious designers and celebrities, Kalamkari is seeing a revival. Kalamkari sarees and other outfits are ideal for any occasion, be it a festive celebration or a formal event.
Amruta Kar, a Bhubaneswar-based fashion designer, suggests ways to step out in style in Kalamkari.
One can use a block printed Kalamkari kurti with a solid coloured dupatta and palazzo, which is comfortable in any season, she says. For the fall season, go for earthy tones like browns and maroons. Kalamkari prints are available in georgette, chiffon, and silk. They can be bought from online sites too.
The combination of silk and Kalamkari is unbeatable for a festive look. Try a Kalamkari silk kurti or saree or even a long gown and be a head-turner of the occasion.
For a professional look, a collared Kalamkari kurti in cotton fabric is ideal. Or try a boat neck kurti for a variation. If you’re a girl who wants that corporate vibe, get a Kalamkari shirt and pair it with wide-legged formal pants to step up your look.
How can we forget the boho style? Go for long Kalamkari kurtas and wear them as dresses. Add some silver jewellery to enhance the overall styling.
Kalamkari bottom wear, layered capes, culottes and stylish shrugs can also up your style quotient. If you are bored with your timeless Kalamkari sarees, then transform them into dresses, such as Anarkali gowns, and be in tune with the times.
Men who love ethnic can pair their sherwanis and Jodhpuri jackets with a Kalamkari dupatta.
Vishwat Sen, a fashion designer from Bhubaneswar, has tried to fuse a modern look with the ancient essence of Kalamkari. The designer says that a crop top or any upper wear in Kalamkari can be enhanced with embroidery, weaving, and pleating. He uses floral motifs inspired from nature to create designs that balance the geometric and floral.
A ‘cold shoulder’ dress in floral Kalamkari with 3-D embroidery is perfect for traditional occasions while a one-shoulder dress in Kalamkari gives a modern silhouette with a traditional touch.
Sushree Sucharita, a lecturer in fashion and apparel technology with College of Engineering and technology, Bhubaneswar, suggests some accessory ideas for Kalamkari outfits.
When your kurti has a lovely Kalamkari art accompanied by colourful dupatta and palazzo, it looks simple with minimal accessories. A pair of silver drop earring, a leather satchel or saddle and a pair of stiletto will together enhance the beauty.
You can use silk thread jhumka or silver coloured antique jhumka or Chandbali earrings, a wristlet and a pair of gladiators or pee toe with silk kurtis or sarees or long gowns to look beautiful. Use of multiple bangles or layered bracelets will uplift your beauty.
If you are in a corporate job then style with a pair of studs, a leather satchel, analogue wrist watch and a pair of colour block brogues for appeal. IANS