Kalamkari Sarees

Kalamkari Sarees: The Modern Woman’s Timeless Obsession

Since childhood, girls are often exposed to a wardrobe filled with cotton and silk sarees of their mothers. But little are they aware of the different art forms that adorn those silk and cotton sarees. With changing times, different art forms emerged to beautify the traditional saree drapes of India. This made them popular not just within the country but also across the borders – prominent names include Kalamkari sarees, Muga sarees, Mekhla chaddar, Paithani sarees, and more. Going beyond silk and cotton sarees, women are now exposed to different media, more travelling across states and usage of the internet give them enough access to the knowledge that can turn women into saree enthusiasts.

If you’re a saree connoisseur, you can’t shut your eyes to the beauty of Kalamkari cotton sarees. Earlier Kalamkari art forms were done with precision on the temple walls of southern India. But with time, this art form made its space in the contemporary wardrobe of women in the form of saree drapes. Other than Madhubani sarees, hand -block-printed sarees and Chanderi silk sarees with golden woven motifs, the Kalamkari saree became a piece of wearable art.

Floral & Mythological Motifs of Kalamkari Cotton Sarees

After making its way from the temples of India to the saree wardrobes, Kalamkari cotton sarees have established themselves as an emotion and not just a piece of clothing. Have you ever wondered why these sarees are referred to as canvas designs? Kalamkari sarees are drawn using a particular kind of bamboo pen and belong to the state of Andhra Pradesh that goes back to the time when it was drawn as ancient temple art.

But, if these drapes are only popular in India, think again. Because our famous and visionary designers like Sabyasachi Mukerjee and Gaurang Shah are making a big impression on the global fashion market because of these motifs. So, this is the era when cotton sarees and silk sarees are making runway-worthy statements on and off the ramp.

So, how do you know or understand this art form and separate it from other artworks like Madhubani or Pattachitra? The answer is simple. Kalamkari print sarees feature two signature motifs – floral and mythology-inspired designs – these illustrations set them apart from the rest of the art forms of India. With intertwining vines, delicate flowers, paisleys and characters inspired by the epics of the Mahabharata and Ramayana reflect the ingenious hard work artisans put in designing these Kalamkari sarees.

Kalamkari Print Sarees: Perfect for Casual and Special Occasions

For the modern woman, a Kalamkari saree is a statement-making drape. Kali puja, Laxmi puja at home or Durga puja pandal hopping, you can wear this printed saree for all festive and auspicious celebrations. Also, women are not shying away from draping them to office soirées. To make a statement-worthy look, women must pair their Kalamkari silk sarees with single-coloured crop tops or blouses with minimalistic silhouettes. In recent times, fashion designers are also choosing the route of going beyond tradition and are unveiling attention-grabbing designs by adding a dash of sparkle.

Increasing the artsy appeal of Kalamkari sarees online, Libas is offering a magnetic selection of these sarees. While the brand is known for their exotic line of kurta sets, suits and lehengas, in recent times the online store is also offering a fine assortment of sarees like Bandhani sarees, Banarasi sarees, organza sarees and more varieties. For all those who believe in choosing their sarees that represent the seamless co-existence of fashion and culture; they must certainly opt for Kalamkari sarees.

The Timeless Dance of Kalamkari: From Tradition to Trends

In the world of textiles, Kalamkari pen work adorns cotton saree fabrics. Hence, it justifies the use of natural dyed colours. But nowadays, women prefer to have a more versatile saree closet with designs that can justify her boardroom meeting look and also go for after-work parties.

Keeping in mind this, designers shifted their focus from cotton to silk Kalamkari sarees. Silk is considered a rich fabric. This makes it a choice of drape for special occasions and festivities. While it is difficult to paint on silk Kalamkari fabric in comparison to cotton, because of the use of natural dyes. But with time, everything evolves. The fluid drape of silk fabric accentuates the Kalamkari’s motifs. Designers and artisans are experimenting on silk Kalamkari sarees striving to give it a glamorous look.

Shop Kalamkari Sarees Online from Libas

Kalamkari sarees are unique textiles of India. These drapes depict a blend that bridges the difference between art and wearability. Indian designers are reimagining the signature motifs of these sarees s and turning them glamorous. But how? They are not just restricting themselves to the use of earthy colours but also adding sequins and fine metallic embroidery to transform them into gorgeous glam drapes.

At Libas, the collection of Kalamkari sarees online is vivid and lively. Showcasing the artsy designs and use of beautiful patterns; these sarees are a must-have in every modern woman’s saree closet.

FAQs about Kalamkari Sarees

1. What is a Kalamkari saree?

A Kalamkari saree is a hand-painted or block-printed Indian saree featuring intricate mythological and floral motifs on natural fabrics.

2. What is the speciality of Kalamkari saree?

The speciality of a Kalamkari saree lies in its handcrafted designs, natural dyes, intricate motifs, and rich traditional storytelling artistry.

3. How to identify Kalamkari saree?

India is a land of different types of sarees. But a Kalamkari cotton saree can be identified by its hand-painted motifs, use of natural dyes, intricate designs, and traditional folklore patterns.

4. Which place is famous for Kalamkari sarees?

Machilipatnam and Srikalahasti are the two districts in Andhra Pradesh that are famous for authentic Kalamkari print sarees known for their intricate hand-painted designs.

5. How to style Kalamkari saree?

Style a Kalamkari silk saree with a solid-hued blouse in a contrasting colour. Pair it with oxidized jewellery, wedged heels or peep toes, and minimal makeup for an elegant yet modern look.

6. What fabrics are used for Kalamkari?

Kalamkari sarees are traditionally crafted from cotton and silk fabrics. Craftsmen usually use natural dyes to colour the motifs.